always

[ awl-weyz, -weez ]

adverb

1. every time; on every occasion; without exception:

   He always works on Saturday.

   Synonyms: consistently, regularly

2. all the time; continuously; uninterruptedly:

   There is always some pollution in the air.

   Synonyms: unceasingly, perpetually, constantly

3. forever:

   Will you always love me?

   Synonyms: evermore, eternally

4. in any event; at any time; if necessary:

   She can always move back with her parents.

always

/ ˈɔːlweɪz; -wɪz /

adverb

1. without exception; on every occasion; every time

   he always arrives on time

2. continually; repeatedly
3. in any case

   you could always take a day off work

4. informal.
   for ever; without end

   our marriage is for always

Word History and Origins

Origin of always¹

First recorded in 1200–50; Middle English alwayes, alleweyes, alles weis, alteration of alle wey alway

Word History and Origins

Origin of always¹

C13 alles weiss, from Old English ealne weg, literally: all the way; see all , way

Synonym Study

Both always and ever refer to uniform or perpetual continuance. Always often expresses or implies repetition as producing the uniformity or continuance: The sun always rises in the east. Ever implies an unchanging sameness throughout: Natural law is ever to be reckoned with.

Example Sentences

“Austin, like I’ve said before multiple times, he texted me throughout my time at Tennessee. So having him there, I ask him any questions. He’s always there to help me out,” Knecht said.

From Los Angeles Times

The Kremlin has always denied involvement in the poisonings.

From BBC

As scavengers, vultures always look for the next carcass.

From Science Daily

Music has always had strong emotional impact on human listeners in both contemporary and ancient cultures, hence its use in ritual religious and mythological contexts.

From Science Daily

It’s always great to see after the game many coming together for a group photo.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• consistently
• constantly
• ever
• invariably
• regularly
• repeatedly