English · Numbers & Time
already
/ɔːlˈrɛdi/
[/ɔːlˈrɛdi/]
before now; by this time
Beginneradverb
Definition
Already means before now or sooner than expected.
Example
I have already finished my work.
I have already finished my work.
Etymology
From Middle English 'al redy', meaning 'fully ready'.
How & Where It’s Used
Used to show something happened before now, often with surprise.