When studying English, you quickly realize that some of the most important and frequent words deal with the passage of time. Words like “yet,” “still,” and “already” are used often in conversation and writing, yet they can be surprisingly tricky to master. Even advanced learners of English sometimes misuse these terms because they each convey slightly different nuances of meaning, depending on the context. Whether you’re attending English language classes, enrolled in an online course to study English, or simply self-studying, understanding these words will give you greater fluency in expressing ideas related to time.
This comprehensive article will break down the usage of these words with examples, comparisons, and exercises to help you use “yet,” “still,” and “already” like a native speaker. Plus, if you’re looking to take your English learning to the next level, consider signing up for English language classes at NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo. You can learn more and register here.
Understanding “Yet”
In English, “yet” is commonly used in negative sentences and questions to indicate that something has not happened so far but is expected to happen in the future. It implies an action that hasn’t occurred but is anticipated. “Yet” is primarily seen in the present perfect tense, although it also appears in other tenses, and typically comes at the end of the sentence.
1. “Yet” in Negative Sentences
When you use “yet” in negative sentences, it suggests that an action hasn’t occurred up to this point, but you expect it to happen eventually.
- Examples:
- I haven’t finished my homework yet. (I expect to finish it, but I haven’t so far.)
- She hasn’t arrived yet. (I expect her to arrive, but she hasn’t done so yet.)
- They haven’t called me yet. (I expect a phone call, but I’m still waiting.)
In each case, “yet” signals that while the action has not occurred, the expectation remains that it will. This nuance is key to mastering “yet”, especially for students learning through an online class for English learning or in traditional settings.
2. “Yet” in Questions
When used in questions, “yet” conveys curiosity or impatience about something that is anticipated but hasn’t happened so far. The question format also shows that the speaker expects the event to happen soon.
- Examples:
- Have you finished your assignment yet?
- Has the mail arrived yet?
- Are you ready yet?
These questions imply that the speaker is aware of the situation and anticipates a result. In casual conversation, particularly among learners studying through online classes for English learning, this tone of mild impatience often accompanies the use of “yet.” It’s a useful word for asking if something is complete without sounding overly demanding.
3. “Yet” in Affirmative Sentences
Although less common, “yet” can be used in affirmative sentences to suggest that something is about to happen or is expected. This form typically implies that a positive event is on the horizon, although it hasn’t arrived.
- Examples:
- The best is yet to come.
- We are yet to see the impact of that decision.
- She is yet to find a solution to the problem.
In this usage, “yet” helps convey anticipation. Affirmative uses of “yet” are less frequent in everyday speech but can often be found in literary or formal contexts. English learners, particularly those attending English language classes or taking an online course to study English, will encounter this construction more often in written English.
Using “Still”
“Still” is used to show that something is continuing, despite the passage of time. It emphasizes the persistence of a situation or action and can be found in both positive and negative sentences. Understanding “still” is important for English learners aiming to refine their fluency, particularly those pursuing advanced studies in an English language course or through an online class for English learning.
1. “Still” in Affirmative Sentences
In affirmative sentences, “still” emphasizes that something began in the past and continues into the present. It is usually placed before the main verb, except when using the verb “to be.”
- Examples:
- She is still working on her report.
- We still live in the same house.
- He still loves to exercise every day.
In these examples, “still” indicates that the actions or states have persisted over time. For learners in English language classes or self-studying through an online English course, practicing this construction helps make your English sound more natural and fluid.
2. “Still” in Negative Sentences
When used in negative sentences, “still” shows that an action has not occurred or that a situation persists longer than expected. The implication is that the speaker expected the action or situation to change, but it hasn’t.
- Examples:
- They still haven’t decided on a date for the party.
- She still doesn’t know how to swim.
- We still can’t believe what happened.
Here, “still” suggests surprise or disappointment that the situation has not changed. For those enrolled in online classes for English learning, it’s important to note that “still” often carries an emotional weight of impatience or frustration, depending on context.
3. “Still” in Questions
“Still” is often used in questions to ask if something is continuing, usually with an element of surprise or disbelief.
- Examples:
- Are you still watching that show?
- Do you still work for that company?
- Is he still talking about that incident?
In these questions, the use of “still” conveys that the speaker expected the action or situation to have stopped by now. It’s a useful term for expressing surprise that something hasn’t changed.
Understanding “Already”
“Already” indicates that something has happened earlier than expected or that it was completed before now. It is commonly used in positive statements and sometimes in questions to express that something is finished or occurred before the speaker anticipated.
1. “Already” in Affirmative Sentences
In affirmative sentences, “already” is typically placed between the auxiliary and the main verb (if there is an auxiliary verb) or before the main verb. It suggests that something has happened sooner than expected.
- Examples:
- I have already finished my homework.
- She has already left the office.
- They already know the results.
In these examples, “already” conveys a sense of accomplishment or speed. For students in English language classes or enrolled in an online English course, mastering the use of “already” in affirmative sentences will help you sound more fluent and natural.
2. “Already” in Questions
In questions, “already” can express surprise or curiosity about whether something has happened sooner than expected.
- Examples:
- Have you already eaten lunch?
- Did they already leave for the airport?
- Has he already called you?
These questions convey curiosity about whether the action was completed earlier than anticipated. English learners can benefit from practicing this form, particularly those studying through online classes for English learning, as it’s frequently used in casual conversation.
3. “Already” in Negative Sentences (Rare Usage)
Although uncommon, “already” can be used in negative sentences to express surprise that something hasn’t happened yet, especially in informal speech. This usage is more common in American English.
- Examples:
- You didn’t finish the project already, did you?
- He hasn’t replied already, has he?
In these instances, the speaker is expressing surprise or disbelief that something has not yet happened when they expected it to.
Comparing “Yet,” “Still,” and “Already”
Now that we’ve looked at how “yet,” “still,” and “already” work independently, it’s useful to compare them side by side to better understand their differences. These words are all related to time, but each serves a distinct purpose in sentence construction.
- “Yet” is used to show that something hasn’t happened but is expected to occur.
- Example: I haven’t finished the task yet.
- “Still” emphasizes that something is ongoing or has continued for a longer time than expected.
- Example: She is still studying for the exam.
- “Already” suggests that something has happened sooner than expected.
- Example: They have already made their decision.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes with “yet,” “still,” and “already” are common among English learners, even those enrolled in online classes for English learning or studying through traditional methods. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Using “Yet” Instead of “Still”
- Incorrect: He is yet working on the project.
- Correct: He is still working on the project.
Explanation: “Yet” should not replace “still” when referring to an ongoing action. “Still” emphasizes continuity, while “yet” suggests something hasn’t happened.
Mistake 2: Misplacing “Already”
- Incorrect: I already have finished the report.
- Correct: I have already finished the report.
Explanation: “Already” should come after the auxiliary verb in sentences using the present perfect tense.
Mistake 3: Using “Still” in Questions Instead of “Yet”
- Incorrect: Have you still finished your assignment?
- Correct: Have you finished your assignment yet?
Explanation: “Yet” is more appropriate when asking if something has been completed, especially in negative questions.
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of “yet,” “still,” and “already,” try these exercises:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
- I haven’t received the package ___. (yet/still/already)
- Are you ___ waiting for the bus? (yet/still/already)
- She has ___ completed her work. (yet/still/already)
- We ___ haven’t heard from him. (yet/still/already)
- Have you eaten ___? (yet/still/already)
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
- He is yet cooking dinner.
- Have you still finished your homework?
- I have still completed the report.
- They have already not called back.
- Are you still not ready yet?
Conclusion
Mastering “yet,” “still,” and “already” is essential for fluent English. These small but powerful words help convey precise meaning about time and the speaker’s expectations. By practicing their usage in sentences, you can greatly improve your English, whether you’re studying in English language classes or taking an online course for English learning. To further enhance your English skills, consider enrolling in a comprehensive English language course at NLS Norwegian Language School. Learn more about how you can improve your English fluency and register here.
