Already vs Yet vs Still: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Already indicates a situation that has been completed earlier than expected; yet is typically used in questions or negative sentences to mean 'not yet.' Still denotes an ongoing situation.
Memory Tip: Already = done early, Yet = not done, Still = ongoing
Already has /ɔːl/, Yet has /j/, Still has /ɪ/
already /ɔːlˈrɛdi/
adverbBefore now or earlier than expected.
Example:
I already finished my homework, so I can watch TV now.
Common patterns:
before now
by this time
yet /jɛt/
adverbUp to this time; until now.
Example:
Is dinner ready yet?
Common patterns:
used in negative sentences
used in questions
yet
conjunction"Yet" is used to introduce a contrast or to indicate that something has not happened up to the present time, often implying that it is expected to happen in the future.
Example:
Is dinner ready yet?
Common patterns:
yet another
not yet
yet to be determined
still
adjective"Still" means that something continues to happen or exist without change.
Example:
She is still waiting for the bus at the station.
Common patterns:
still waiting
still here
still important
still /stɪl/
adverbContinuing to happen or exist at the present time.
Example:
She is still waiting for the bus at the station.
Common patterns:
still awake
still happy
Common Mistakes
Have you already finished your homework?
Have you finished your homework yet?
Yet is used in questions to inquire if something has happened or not.
I am already waiting for the bus.
I am still waiting for the bus.
Still is used to indicate that the action of waiting is ongoing and not yet completed.
Quick Practice
0/5 correct1. I ____ finished my homework, so I can watch TV now.
2. Is dinner ready ____?
3. Is dinner ready ____?
4. She is ____ waiting for the bus at the station.
5. She is ____ waiting for the bus at the station.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse already / yet / still again
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