Still vs. Yet vs. Already: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
- Still = something is continuing (not finished): "He is still sleeping."
- Yet = expected but not done (negatives and questions): "Have you eaten yet?"
- Already = happened sooner than expected: "She has already finished!"
Explanation
STILL
Shows something is continuing. Used in affirmative, negative, and question sentences.
Position: before main verb / after "be"
- She is still here.
- I still love you.
- He still hasn't called.
YET
Shows something is expected but hasn't happened. Mainly used in negatives and questions.
Position: at end of sentence
- I haven't done it yet.
- Has she arrived yet?
- Not ready yet.
ALREADY
Shows something happened earlier than expected. Used in affirmative sentences.
Position: between auxiliary and main verb
- I've already eaten.
- She has already left.
- He is already there.
Position Summary
| Word | Sentence type | Position |
|---|---|---|
| still | all types | before main verb / after "be" |
| yet | negative / question | end of sentence |
| already | affirmative | between auxiliary + main verb |
Examples
✔The kids are still playing outside. (continuing)
✔I haven't packed my bags yet. (expected but not done)
✔She has already passed the exam. (sooner than expected)
✘I haven't done it still. (use "yet" in negatives at end of sentence)
✔I haven't done it yet. / I still haven't done it.
✘Have you already arrived? (not wrong, but sounds unnatural, "yet" is more natural in questions)
✔Have you arrived yet?
Common Mistake
Incorrect: I have yet eaten dinner.
Correct: I haven't eaten dinner yet. / I have already eaten dinner.
"Yet" is used in negative sentences and questions. For affirmative sentences expressing early completion, use "already."
Practice
Choose the correct word:
"I can't believe it, she is _____ here! The meeting doesn't start for another hour." (still / yet / already)