Today we are going to revise with you one of those issues that English language students tend to find confusing whenever they put it into practice. The use of adverbs “still”, “yet”, “already” and “just”, often associated with the present perfect tense, can be troublesome to Spanish speakers however we will see it is simpler than it looks if certain rules are followed. Are you ready?
ALREADY
It is used to express that something has happened early or earlier than expected. It normally comes in mid-position, between the auxiliary verb and the main verb.
- It’s only 10 a.m. and I have already finished packing!
- Have you already seen Spielberg’s new film?
JUST
It means “a short time ago” and, like “already”, it comes between the auxiliary verb and the main verb in present perfect (or before the main verb in past simple)
- He has just graduated at Cambridge University
- I just had my breakfast a few minutes ago
STILL
This adverb refers to actions that have not finished yet, especially actions tat were expected to finish earlier. It is always placed before the verb regardless of the tense, except for the verb “to be”.
- They still have not completed the assignment
- I am still waiting for the bus
YET
It is used for actions that were expected to happen but have not taken place yet. It is normally used in questions and negative sentences and it usually comes at the end of the sentence.
- I haven’t seen the last Star Wars film yet
- Have you finished your dinner yet? It’s time to go to bed
And now, let’s put this into practice as usual, with the following exercises:
For more English tips, take a look to the posts below ;)»Sigue aprendiendo inglés uniéndote a nuestra comunidad. Recibirás todas las semanas artículos de interés, lecciones, audios, ejercicios y mucho más ;)»
