Already is the correct spelling, and it is a commonly used adverb in the English language. It is essential to master the correct usage of already in both spoken and written English, especially for those who are preparing for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination. This article will provide a clear explanation of already and its usage and will include a list of relevant examples to help you better understand and remember this word.
To start, let’s define what already means. Already is an adverb that indicates that something has happened before a specific time or event, or it can be used to express that an action or state happened earlier than expected. It commonly appears in sentences with present perfect or past perfect tenses, but it can also be used in other contexts.
To illustrate the correct usage of already, let’s consider the following scenarios:
1. Present perfect tense:
– I have already completed my homework.
– Have you already eaten dinner?
In these sentences, already emphasizes that the action of completing homework and eating dinner occurred before the present moment.
2. Past perfect tense:
– She had already left the office when I arrived.
– They had already finished their work by noon.
In these examples, already indicates that an action took place before another action in the past. It highlights the earlier completion of leaving the office and finishing work.
3. Other contexts:
– Let’s go already! We’re running late.
– He’s trying to quit smoking, but he’s already struggling.
In these sentences, already is used to convey impatience or surprise. It emphasizes that the situation has occurred, started, or is changing sooner than expected.
Now, let’s compare already with a frequently misspelled variation: allready. Allready is an incorrect spelling, and it does not exist in standard English usage. It is a common mistake made by English learners or even native speakers who may confuse it with the correct spelling of already.
To further clarify the difference, imagine already as a well-established rock band with a significant fan following. They have released hit songs and performed in sold-out concerts around the world. On the other hand, allready is like a fictional band or a spelling mistake, lacking any real presence or legitimacy. Just as already is solid and reliable, allready is a weak and invalid substitute.
To recap, already is the correct adverb choice when indicating that something has happened before a specific time or event, or when expressing that an action or state took place earlier than expected. Allready, on the other hand, is an incorrect spelling and should be avoided.
In conclusion, mastering the correct usage of already is essential for effective communication in English, and it plays a significant role in the IELTS examination. Remember that already is the correct spelling, and it can be used in present perfect and past perfect tenses, as well as in other contexts that denote an action or state occurring earlier than expected. By practicing and using already correctly, you can enhance your language skills and improve your overall fluency.