With clear B1+ level explanations and examples, learn the difference between already, yet, and still. It’s easy to get better at English grammar.
Already, Yet, Still: What’s the Difference? Exercises
Already, yet, and still are common adverbs in English. They are often used with the present perfect, but they don’t mean the same thing. Knowing the difference will make it easier for you to talk and write.
Already
We use already to mean that something happened sooner than we thought or earlier than we expected.
It is usually used in positive sentences and is often found before the main verb or after the verb “to be.”
For example:
- I have already finished my homework.
- She is already at the office.
In questions, already can show surprise.
- Have you already eaten?
Yet
We use yet to talk about something that hasn’t happened yet but we think it will happen soon.
It is mostly used in questions and negative sentences, and it usually comes at the end of the sentence.
Examples:
- I haven’t finished the report yet.
- Have you called him yet?
At the B1 level, don’t use yet in positive sentences.
Still
We use still to say that something is still happening and hasn’t changed, usually for longer than we thought it would.
People often use still in both positive and negative sentences, and it usually comes before the main verb or after “to be.”
Examples:
- She is still working on the project.
- They still haven’t arrived.
Still shows signs of being impatient, surprised, or let down.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Do not use yet in sentences that are true.
- Don’t mix up already with still.
- Already means that something is done sooner than planned.
- Still means that something is still going on and hasn’t ended.
A quick summary
- Already: something happened sooner than expected
- Yet: something has not happened, but is expected
- Still: something continues and has not changed
You will get better at both grammar and fluency at the B1 level by using these adverbs in sentences.
