Grammar: Still, Yet, Already

Still, yet and already

a) Still

We use "still" for something going on longer than expected. The situation has not stopped.

• It is five o'clock in the morning and Paul is still working
• Do you still want to go on holiday?

1. If the verb has one part (e.g. says, does, fell, etc.), the adverb "still" usually goes before the verb.

• I still watch 'Neighbours'
• They still go to school

2. If the verb has two or more parts (e.g. am running, were watching, etc.) the adverb "still" goes after the first verb.

• I am still eating my dinner
• We are still going to the cinema tonight

3. If the sentence is negative, "still" goes before the negative.

• I gave up smoking, but my friends still haven't given up

4. If you want to express surprise, "still" can go after the negative.

• You don't still like him, do you?

b) Yet

We use "yet" to express "until now".

We use "yet" for something that is expected.

• Have you replied to the letter yet?

1. We normally use "yet" with the present perfect.

• I haven't eaten my breakfast yet
• Have you been to London yet?

2. "Yet" goes at the end of a question or a negative statement.

• I haven't washed my car yet
• Have you seen your Mum yet?

3. We can use "yet" in the middle of a sentence, this is a little formal.

• We have not yet reached a decision on the subject

c) Already

We use "already" for something happening sooner than expected.

• I already know how to speak French

1. If the verb has one part, "already" goes before the verb.

• She already knows how to cook

2. If the verb has two parts, "already" goes after the first verb.

• I have already received my exam results

3. "Already" at the end of a sentence has more emphasis.

• Have you typed the letter already? (I am surprised that you have done it so quickly)

4. You cannot use "already" with a negative sentence.