Overview
'Already' indicates something has happened sooner than expected (I've already finished). 'Just' means very recently (She has just arrived). 'Yet' is used in negatives and questions to ask if something has happened (Have you eaten yet? I haven't eaten yet). 'Still' indicates something is continuing (Is he still here?).
Already / Just / Yet / Still
- alreadyAlready = before expected — I've already finished!
- justJust = very recently — She has just arrived.
- yetYet = up to now (negative/question) — Have you eaten yet? / I haven't eaten yet.
- stillStill = continuing longer than expected — He still hasn't called.
Position
- Already/Just/Still: before the main verb or after auxiliary — She has just left.
- Yet: at the end of the sentence — Has she called yet?
- Still in negatives: She still hasn't replied.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Have you eaten already? (expecting 'yes') → ✅ Have you eaten yet?
- ❌ She has yet arrived. → ✅ She has already arrived.
- ❌ He already hasn't called. → ✅ He still hasn't called.
When to use
Task updates
I've already sent the report.
Recent events
She has just left the office.
Checking progress
Have you finished yet?
Frustration
He still hasn't replied to my email.