In this lesson, we will explore the use of already, since, yet, and for in English. These words are essential for expressing time and completion in both present perfect and past perfect tenses. Let’s dive into each one!
Already
Meaning:
Already is used to indicate that something has happened earlier than expected.
Position in a Sentence:
It usually appears after the auxiliary verb (have/has) and before the main verb.
Example:
She has already finished her homework.
Common Usage:
In positive sentences to show that an action is completed.
Example:
I have already eaten breakfast.
Practice Sentences:
Sentence
Translation
Have you already seen this movie?
¿Ya has visto esta película?
They have already left for the airport.
Ellos ya se han ido al aeropuerto.
Since
Meaning:
Since is used to refer to a specific point in time in the past when an action began. It is often used with present perfect tense.
Position in a Sentence:
It introduces the starting point of an action or situation.
Example:
I have lived here since 2015.
Common Usage:
With specific dates, times, or events in the past.
Example:
She has been working here since January.
Practice Sentences:
Sentence
Translation
We have known each other since high school.
Nos conocemos desde la escuela secundaria.
He has been a teacher since 2008.
Él ha sido profesor desde 2008.
Yet
Meaning:
Yet is used to indicate that something hasn’t happened up to the present moment but is expected to happen.
Position in a Sentence:
It is placed at the end of a negative sentence or in a question.
Example:
Have you finished your project yet?
Common Usage:
In negative sentences to show that something hasn’t happened.
Example:
I haven’t read the book yet.
Practice Sentences:
Sentence
Translation
Has the bus arrived yet?
¿El autobús ya llegó?
They haven’t called us yet.
Aún no nos han llamado.
For
Meaning:
For is used to refer to a duration of time. It answers the question “How long?”
Position in a Sentence:
It introduces the length of time an action or situation has been happening.
Example:
I have been studying English for five years.
Common Usage:
With periods of time such as hours, days, weeks, months, years, etc.
Example:
She has worked at the company for ten years.