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A2 adverb #300 le plus courant 16 min de lecture

もう

mou Top 300

At the A1 level, learners encounter 'mou' in its most basic and literal forms. The focus is primarily on its use as 'already' in simple past tense sentences and as 'more' with basic counters. For a beginner, 'mou' is a crucial tool for talking about daily routines and basic needs. You will learn to say things like 'Mou tabemashita' (I already ate) or 'Mou ichido onegaishimasu' (One more time, please). At this stage, the grammar is straightforward: 'mou' usually comes at the beginning of the sentence or right before the verb or number. The goal is to understand that 'mou' signals a change from the past or an addition to the present. Learners are encouraged to use it to confirm completion of tasks, such as 'Mou shimashita' (I already did it). It is also important to recognize the common phrase 'mou sugu' (soon), which is very helpful for understanding basic directions or schedules. The emotional 'mou!' might be introduced as a cultural note, but the emphasis remains on practical, functional communication. By mastering 'mou' at A1, you lay the foundation for more complex temporal and emotional expressions later on. The key is to remember that 'mou' + past tense = 'already' and 'mou' + number = 'more.' This simple distinction covers most of what an A1 learner needs to know.

At the A2 level, the use of 'mou' expands to include negative constructions and more varied quantitative expressions. Learners begin to use 'mou' to mean 'no longer' or 'not anymore' by pairing it with negative verb forms like '-nai' or '-masen.' For example, 'Mou sake o nomimasen' (I don't drink sake anymore). This is a significant step forward as it allows learners to describe changes in their habits or life situations. Additionally, A2 learners use 'mou' with a wider range of counters and quantity words, such as 'mou sukoshi' (a little more) or 'mou takusan' (already a lot / enough). The distinction between 'mou' and 'mada' (still/not yet) becomes a central focus at this level, as misusing them is a common hurdle. A2 students practice distinguishing between 'Mada tabete imasen' (I haven't eaten yet) and 'Mou tabemasen' (I won't eat anymore). The emotional nuance of 'mou' as an interjection also becomes more relevant as learners engage in more natural, conversational exchanges. They might start using 'mou!' to express mild frustration in a playful or casual way. Overall, A2 'mou' is about moving beyond simple completion and addition to describing boundaries, changes in state, and more nuanced quantities in everyday life.

At the B1 level, 'mou' is used with greater fluency and in more complex sentence structures. Learners start to use 'mou' to emphasize the current state or to express a sense of urgency. For instance, 'mou jikan ga nai' (there's no more time) or 'mou osoi' (it's already late). The focus shifts toward the emotional and rhetorical power of the word. B1 learners are expected to understand the nuance of 'mou' in suggestions, such as 'mou kaettara?' (why don't you go home already?), where it adds a layer of prodding or advice. They also encounter 'mou' in more idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases. The use of 'mou' to indicate that a certain threshold has been crossed is also emphasized, such as 'mou genkai da' (I'm at my limit). At this level, students should be able to distinguish between 'mou' and more formal alternatives like 'sude ni' in reading and listening contexts, even if they primarily use 'mou' in their own speech. The B1 learner uses 'mou' to make their Japanese sound more natural and expressive, moving away from textbook-perfect sentences toward the more fluid and emotionally resonant language used by native speakers. They also begin to notice how 'mou' can act as a transition word or filler in longer narratives.

At the B2 level, learners master the subtle nuances and rhetorical uses of 'mou.' They can use it to express a wide range of emotions, from deep exasperation to strong emphasis. For example, 'mou takusan da!' (I've had enough!). They also understand how 'mou' functions in complex conditional and hypothetical sentences. B2 learners are proficient in using 'mou' with various registers, knowing when it is appropriate to use it and when to switch to 'sude ni' or 'mohaya' for formal or dramatic effect. They can accurately interpret the meaning of 'mou' in literature and news media, where it might be used to describe historical shifts or social trends. For instance, 'mou katsute no you na... wa nai' (there is no longer the kind of... that there once was). The B2 level also involves understanding 'mou' in combination with other adverbs and particles to create specific shades of meaning, such as 'mou douse' (anyway/at this point). Learners at this stage use 'mou' not just as a vocabulary word, but as a tool for managing the flow of information and the emotional tone of their discourse. They are sensitive to the length and intonation of 'mou' and how it affects the listener's perception of their message.

At the C1 level, 'mou' is used with the precision and variety of a native speaker. Learners can navigate the most subtle rhetorical functions of the word, including its use in irony, sarcasm, and high-level persuasion. They understand the historical development of 'mou' and how it relates to other temporal markers in the Japanese language. C1 learners can use 'mou' in formal academic writing or professional presentations to emphasize a point or to mark a transition in an argument, although they are equally adept at using its formal counterparts. They are also familiar with archaic or dialectal variations of 'mou' that might appear in classical literature or regional speech. In conversation, a C1 speaker uses 'mou' to add layers of meaning that are often left unsaid, relying on the word's inherent sense of 'limit' or 'completion' to imply context. For example, a simple 'mou...' at the end of a sentence can convey a world of regret or resignation. At this level, the study of 'mou' is less about grammar and more about the philosophy of time and emotion in Japanese culture. The learner is fully aware of how 'mou' shapes the relationship between the speaker, the listener, and the event being described.

At the C2 level, the learner's mastery of 'mou' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They can appreciate and use 'mou' in its most abstract and poetic forms. This includes understanding its role in Zen-like expressions of finality or the cyclical nature of time. A C2 learner can analyze the use of 'mou' in the works of great Japanese authors, noting how it contributes to the rhythm and mood of the prose. They are also capable of using 'mou' in highly specialized contexts, such as legal or technical documents, where its precise meaning as a temporal boundary is critical. In spontaneous speech, they use 'mou' with perfect timing and intonation to achieve specific communicative goals, whether it's de-escalating a conflict, building tension in a story, or expressing profound empathy. The C2 level represents the pinnacle of linguistic and cultural integration, where 'mou' is no longer a word to be translated, but a fundamental building block of the learner's Japanese identity. They can even play with the word, using it in creative or unconventional ways to achieve a particular stylistic effect, fully confident in their understanding of its traditional boundaries and modern potential.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

もう en 30 secondes

Used to indicate that an action is already finished or a state has been reached.
Used with numbers and counters to mean 'one more' or 'another'.
Used in negative sentences to mean 'no longer' or 'not anymore'.
Used as an exclamation to show frustration, impatience, or emphasis.

The Japanese word もう (mou) is one of the most versatile and frequently used adverbs in the Japanese language. At its core, it functions as a temporal marker, but its meaning shifts significantly depending on the grammatical context and the speaker's intent. For English speakers, it is most commonly translated as already, yet, more, or any longer. Understanding 'mou' requires looking beyond a simple dictionary definition and examining the flow of time and expectation in Japanese thought. When used to mean 'already,' it indicates that a state or action has reached a point of completion or change earlier than expected, or simply that the current state is now different from the past. For instance, in the phrase 'mou tabeta,' the speaker is stating that the act of eating is finished. However, 'mou' also serves as a quantifier, meaning 'more' or 'another,' as in 'mou ichido' (one more time). This dual nature—marking both the completion of the past and the addition to the present—makes it a cornerstone of daily conversation.

Temporal Completion: Used with past tense verbs to indicate that an action is finished. Example: もう宿題をしました (I have already done my homework).

時計を見てください。もう三時ですよ。(Look at the clock. It is already three o'clock.)

Beyond its literal meanings, 'mou' is frequently used as an interjection to express emotion, ranging from mild frustration to utter exasperation. When a person says 'Mou!' with a sharp intake of breath, they are essentially saying 'Geez!' or 'That's enough!' This usage is particularly common in informal settings, such as between friends or family members when someone is being annoying or repetitive. It captures a sense of 'I've had enough of this already.' This emotional layer is crucial for learners to grasp, as it appears constantly in media like anime and drama. Furthermore, 'mou' is used in negative constructions to mean 'no longer' or 'not anymore.' For example, 'mou ikanai' means 'I won't go anymore.' Here, the 'already' sense shifts into a boundary: the point of going has already passed, and now the state is 'not going.' This versatility allows 'mou' to cover a wide range of communicative needs with just two syllables.

Additive Quantity: Used with counters or quantity words to mean 'more' or 'another.' Example: もう一杯コーヒーをください (Please give me one more cup of coffee).

もう少し待ってください。(Please wait a little longer/more.)

In social contexts, 'mou' helps manage expectations. If someone asks if you have finished a task, using 'mou' in your affirmative response confirms that the expectation of completion has been met. Conversely, using it in a question like 'Mou tabeta?' (Have you eaten yet?) shows that the speaker expects the action might have happened. This nuance is slightly different from 'mada,' which implies that something hasn't happened yet but is expected to. The interplay between 'mou' and 'mada' is a fundamental part of Japanese temporal logic. In business settings, 'mou' is used to emphasize urgency or the current status of a project. For instance, 'mou sugu shuppatsu shimasu' (We will depart very soon) uses 'mou' to bring the future event into the immediate sphere of 'almost already happening.' This creates a sense of proximity and readiness that is essential for polite and efficient communication.

Emotional Interjection: Used alone to express frustration or emphasis. Example: もう！遅いよ！ (Geez! You're late!).

彼はもう子供ではありません。(He is no longer a child.)

The grammatical placement of もう (mou) is relatively flexible, but it typically precedes the word or phrase it modifies. Its primary role is as an adverb, meaning it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to provide temporal or quantitative context. When using 'mou' to mean 'already,' it is almost always paired with a verb in the past tense (the -ta form). This is because 'already' implies a completed state. For example, 'Mou kaimashita' (I already bought it). If you were to use 'mou' with a non-past verb, the meaning usually shifts to 'soon' or 'about to,' as in 'mou kaimasu' (I'm about to buy it / I'll buy it now). This distinction is vital for learners to avoid confusion regarding the timing of events. In negative sentences, 'mou' paired with a negative verb form creates the meaning of 'no longer.' 'Mou sake o nomimasen' means 'I don't drink sake anymore.' This indicates a change in habit or state that has already taken effect.

With Past Tense Verbs: Indicates completion. Structure: [Mou] + [Verb-ta]. Example: もう帰りました (Already went home).

ご飯はもう食べましたか。(Have you already eaten your meal?)

When 'mou' is used as a quantifier meaning 'more' or 'another,' it is placed directly before a number and a counter. This is a very common pattern in restaurants and shops. For instance, 'mou hitotsu' (one more), 'mou hitori' (one more person), or 'mou sukoshi' (a little more). It is important to note that 'mou' in this context refers to an additional unit of the same thing, whereas 'hoka no' would refer to a different thing entirely. If you are at a party and want another beer, you say 'mou ippai.' If you want a different drink, you would not use 'mou' in that specific way. Additionally, 'mou' can modify adjectives to indicate that a certain threshold has been reached. 'Mou nemui' (I'm already sleepy) or 'mou osoi' (It's already late). In these cases, it emphasizes that the state described by the adjective has already set in, often implying that it is too late for something else to happen.

With Counters: Indicates addition. Structure: [Mou] + [Number/Counter]. Example: もう二日 (Two more days).

もう一度言ってください。(Please say it one more time.)

Another sophisticated use of 'mou' is in the construction 'mou sugu,' which translates to 'very soon' or 'any moment now.' This is technically 'already soon,' suggesting that the 'soon-ness' has already arrived. You will hear this constantly on Japanese trains: 'mou sugu Tokyo desu' (We will soon be at Tokyo). This phrase is a fixed expression that every learner should memorize. Furthermore, 'mou' can be used with the conditional form to express 'if... already.' For example, 'mou yattara?' (How about if you already did it? / Why don't you just do it already?). This adds a layer of prodding or suggestion. Finally, in emphatic negative sentences, 'mou' can be paired with 'kesshite' or other strong negatives to mean 'never again.' 'Mou kesshite uso wa tsukanai' (I will never tell a lie again). The 'mou' here acts as the starting point of the 'never,' marking the boundary between the past (where lies were told) and the future (where they won't be).

With Negative Verbs: Indicates cessation. Structure: [Mou] + [Verb-nai/masen]. Example: もう食べられません (I can't eat any more).

その映画はもう見ました。(I have already seen that movie.)

In the daily life of a person living in Japan, もう (mou) is inescapable. It is woven into the fabric of social interactions, public announcements, and media. One of the most common places you will hear it is in the service industry. Waitstaff in restaurants will often ask, 'Mou yoroshii desu ka?' which can mean 'Are you finished?' or 'Is everything okay (already)?' when they are looking to clear a plate. Similarly, customers use it to ask for refills: 'Mou ippai onegaishimasu.' In these settings, 'mou' acts as a polite bridge between the current state and the desired next step. It is also a staple of public transportation. The automated voices on trains and buses use 'mou sugu' to alert passengers of upcoming stops. This usage is so ubiquitous that it becomes background noise for residents, yet it is a vital cue for travelers. Hearing 'mou sugu tsugi wa Shinjuku' tells you that you have reached the final moments before your arrival, prompting you to gather your belongings.

Public Announcements: Used to signal proximity in time or space. Example: まもなく（もうすぐ）、一番線に電車が参ります (Shortly/Very soon, a train will arrive on track one).

もうすぐ春ですね。(It's almost spring, isn't it?)

In the realm of Japanese entertainment, particularly anime and manga, 'mou' is used to convey a high degree of character emotion. You will often hear a character exclaim 'Mou!' when they are frustrated with a protagonist's denseness or a recurring problem. This 'mou' is usually elongated—'Mouuu!'—and accompanied by a specific facial expression like a pout or a frown. It serves as a shorthand for 'I can't believe you!' or 'Stop it already!' This expressive power makes it a favorite for voice actors to emphasize a character's personality. In romantic dramas, 'mou' might be used in a softer, more pleading way, such as 'mou ikanai de' (don't go anymore / don't leave), which carries a heavy emotional weight. The word's ability to transition from a dry, temporal marker to a vessel for deep feeling is a testament to its importance in Japanese communication. Whether it's a mother scolding a child or a lover expressing longing, 'mou' provides the necessary emphasis.

Family and Casual Settings: Used to express exasperation or to prompt someone. Example: もう、早くして！ (Geez, hurry up!).

もう、いいよ。(That's enough already / It's fine now.)

In professional environments, 'mou' is used more carefully but is still prevalent. A manager might say, 'Mou sugu kaigi ga hajimarimasu' (The meeting will start very soon) to gather the team. Or, when discussing a project's timeline, one might say 'Mou dekimashita' (It's already done) to show efficiency. It's also used in the phrase 'mou wake gozaimasen' (I have no more excuses / I am deeply sorry), where 'mou' emphasizes the finality and depth of the apology. This formal usage contrasts sharply with the casual 'mou!' but shares the same underlying logic of reaching a limit or a completed state. Even in news broadcasts, you will hear 'mou' used to describe statistics that have reached a certain level: 'mou sen-nin ijou ga...' (already more than 1,000 people...). This demonstrates how 'mou' functions across all registers of Japanese, from the most informal street slang to the most formal corporate and journalistic language. Mastering its use is a key step in sounding natural in any Japanese-speaking environment.

Professional Contexts: Used to report status or emphasize completion. Example: 資料はもう送りました (I have already sent the documents).

プロジェクトはもう最終段階です。(The project is already in its final stage.)

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make with もう (mou) is confusing it with まだ (mada). While 'mou' generally means 'already' or 'no longer,' 'mada' means 'still' or 'not yet.' The confusion often arises in negative sentences. In English, we say 'I haven't eaten yet,' using 'yet.' In Japanese, this must be 'Mada tabete imasen.' If you say 'Mou tabete imasen,' it sounds like 'I am no longer eating,' which is a very different meaning. To avoid this, remember that 'mou' focuses on the change that has occurred, while 'mada' focuses on the continuation of a state that hasn't changed. Another common pitfall is the distinction between 'mou' and 'motto.' Both can be translated as 'more' in English, but they are not interchangeable. 'Mou' is used for additional units or counts (one more, two more), while 'motto' is used for degree or quality (more beautiful, more quickly). Saying 'mou hayaku' instead of 'motto hayaku' for 'faster' is a classic mistake.

Confusion with Mada: Mistake: Using 'mou' for 'not yet'. Correct: Use 'mada' for 'not yet' and 'mou' for 'no longer'.

❌ もう食べていません (Incorrect for 'I haven't eaten yet')
✅ まだ食べていません (Correct for 'I haven't eaten yet')

Another area of confusion is the placement of 'mou' in relation to numbers. Learners sometimes place 'mou' after the number, influenced by English word order ('one more'). However, in Japanese, 'mou' must come before the number: 'mou hitotsu,' not 'hitotsu mou.' This error is particularly common in fast-paced situations like ordering at a restaurant. Additionally, some learners over-use 'mou' when 'sude ni' would be more appropriate. While both mean 'already,' 'sude ni' is much more formal and is typically used in writing or formal speeches. Using 'mou' in a highly formal report might sound slightly too casual, though it is rarely considered a grave error. Conversely, using 'sude ni' in a casual conversation with friends would sound stiff and unnatural. Understanding the register is just as important as understanding the grammar. Another subtle mistake is using 'mou' with a present-tense verb to mean 'already.' As mentioned before, 'mou' + present tense usually means 'soon.' If you want to say 'I already do it (as a habit),' you would use 'mou... shite iru' rather than just 'mou... suru.'

Confusion with Motto: Mistake: Using 'mou' for 'more [adjective]'. Correct: Use 'motto' for degree and 'mou' for quantity.

❌ もう大きい (Incorrect for 'bigger')
✅ もっと大きい (Correct for 'bigger')

Finally, learners often struggle with the emotional 'mou!' interjection. Some might use it too aggressively or in inappropriate contexts. It is a very subjective word that depends heavily on the relationship between the speakers. Using it with a superior at work would be highly inappropriate and seen as rude or childish. It is best reserved for people you are close to. Furthermore, the length of the vowel 'o' in 'mou' can change the nuance. A very short, clipped 'mo!' might sound like a different word or just a grunt, while the standard 'mou' has a clear long vowel. In some dialects, like Kansai-ben, 'mou' might be replaced or supplemented by other particles, but for standard Japanese, sticking to the clear 'mou' is the safest path. By being mindful of these common errors—especially the 'mou' vs. 'mada' and 'mou' vs. 'motto' distinctions—you will significantly improve your Japanese fluency and sound much more like a native speaker.

Word Order with Counters: Mistake: [Counter] + [Mou]. Correct: [Mou] + [Counter]. Example: もう一人 (One more person).

❌ 一人もう (Incorrect)
✅ もう一人 (Correct)

To truly master もう (mou), it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. The most direct synonym for 'mou' in its 'already' sense is 既に (sude ni). While 'mou' is used in everyday conversation, 'sude ni' is reserved for formal writing, news reports, and academic contexts. For example, 'Sude ni ketsuron wa dete iru' (A conclusion has already been reached) sounds much more definitive and official than using 'mou.' Another related word is もはや (mohaya), which also means 'already' or 'now,' but with a strong nuance of 'it's too late' or 'there's no turning back.' 'Mohaya teokure da' means 'It is already too late (to do anything).' This word carries a dramatic or literary weight that 'mou' lacks. When 'mou' is used to mean 'more,' its closest relative is もっと (motto), as discussed previously. Remember: 'mou' for quantity, 'motto' for degree.

Mou vs. Sude ni: 'Mou' is conversational and versatile. 'Sude ni' is formal and specific to completed actions in the past or present states.

会議は既に終了しました。(The meeting has already concluded. - Formal)

In the context of 'one more,' you might also encounter さらに (sarani) or その上 (sono ue). 'Sarani' means 'furthermore' or 'even more' and is often used in formal writing or to describe an increase in intensity. 'Sono ue' means 'on top of that' or 'moreover.' While 'mou' is used for a simple addition of a unit, 'sarani' and 'sono ue' are used to add information or emphasize a growing situation. For example, 'Sarani atsuku naru' (It will get even hotter). Another alternative for 'mou' as an interjection is 全く (mattaku). While 'mou!' expresses frustration, 'mattaku!' (often said as 'mattaku mou!') expresses a sense of 'Good grief!' or 'Honestly!' It is slightly stronger and often used by older speakers or in specific character archetypes in fiction. Understanding these alternatives allows you to choose the word that best fits the tone and context of your conversation.

Mou vs. Mohaya: 'Mou' is neutral. 'Mohaya' implies a point of no return or a dramatic shift in reality.

彼はもはやかつての英雄ではない。(He is no longer the hero he once was.)

Finally, let's look at 今さら (imasara). This is a very specific word that means 'now, after all this time' or 'at this late stage.' It is used when someone does or says something that should have been done much earlier. For example, 'Imasara osoi yo' (It's too late now). While 'mou' simply marks the completion, 'imasara' adds a layer of criticism or regret about the timing. Comparing 'mou' to 'imasara' helps highlight how 'mou' is generally a more neutral temporal marker. By learning these related words, you build a web of vocabulary that allows for much more precise expression. You can move from the basic 'mou' to the formal 'sude ni,' the dramatic 'mohaya,' the additive 'sarani,' or the critical 'imasara.' This depth is what separates a beginner from an intermediate or advanced speaker. Always consider the 'flavor' of the word you are choosing and how it will be perceived by your listener.

Summary of Alternatives

既に (Sude ni): Formal 'already'.
もはや (Mohaya): Dramatic 'no longer/already'.
もっと (Motto): Degree 'more'.
さらに (Sarani): Formal 'furthermore/even more'.
今さら (Imasara): 'Now, at this late stage' (regretful).

今さら謝っても無駄だ。(It's no use apologizing now, after all this time.)

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"既に資料は拝受いたしました。"

Neutre

"もう準備はできましたか。"

Informel

"もう、いいよ、いいよ。"

Child friendly

"もう一回、絵本を読んで！"

Argot

"もう無理ゲー。"

Le savais-tu ?

In ancient texts, 'mou' was often written with kanji that implied 'fullness' or 'completion,' reflecting its core meaning of reaching a limit.

Guide de prononciation

UK /moʊ/

US /moʊ/

Flat pitch accent. In standard Japanese (Tokyo dialect), it is usually pronounced with a high-low (Atamadaka) or flat (Heiban) pattern depending on the sentence context.

Rime avec

Sou (so) Dou (how) Kou (this way) Tou (ten) Hou (direction) Kyou (today) Chou (butterfly) Jou (up)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it too short like 'mo', which can sound like the particle 'mo' (also).
Adding a 'w' sound at the end like 'mow' in English; it should be a pure Japanese 'o' vowel.
Using a rising pitch like a question when it's a statement.
Not elongating the vowel enough in the emotional interjection 'mou!'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Written in hiragana, very easy to recognize.

Écriture 1/5

Only two hiragana characters: も and う.

Expression orale 3/5

Requires correct intonation and understanding of context to sound natural.

Écoute 2/5

Easy to hear, but meaning must be inferred from the following words.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

まだ (Mada) 一つ (Hitotsu) 食べる (Taberu) 行く (Iku) 時間 (Jikan)

Apprends ensuite

やっと (Yatto) ついに (Tsuini) もっと (Motto) さらに (Sarani) 既に (Sude ni)

Avancé

もはや (Mohaya) 今さら (Imasara) いよいよ (Iyoiyo) そろそろ (Sorosoro) さっそく (Sassoku)

Grammaire à connaître

もう + Verb-ta

もう宿題をしました。

もう + Number + Counter

もう一回お願いします。

もう + Verb-nai

もう食べません。

もう + Adjective

もう眠いです。

もうすぐ + Verb

もうすぐ始まります。

Exemples par niveau

もう食べました。

I already ate.

もう + past tense verb indicates completion.

もう一度お願いします。

One more time, please.

もう + counter (ichido) means 'one more'.

もう十二時です。

It is already twelve o'clock.

もう + time indicates that a certain time has been reached.

もうすぐバスが来ます。

The bus will come soon.

もうすぐ is a fixed phrase meaning 'soon'.

もう一つください。

Please give me one more.

もう + counter (hitotsu) means 'another one'.

もう宿題をしましたか。

Have you already done your homework?

もう in a question asks if an action is finished.

もう三回見ました。

I have already seen it three times.

もう + number + counter + past tense.

もう、いいですよ。

It's already fine / That's enough.

もう can be used to signal that a state is sufficient.

もうお酒は飲みません。

I don't drink alcohol anymore.

もう + negative verb means 'no longer'.

もう少しゆっくり話してください。

Please speak a little more slowly.

もう + sukoshi (a little) + adverb.

もう子供ではありません。

I am no longer a child.

もう + negative copula (dewa arimasen).

もう雨は降っていません。

It is no longer raining.

もう + negative continuous form (te-imasen).

もう五分待ってください。

Please wait five more minutes.

もう + duration (gofun) means 'additional time'.

もう、やめてください！

Please stop it already!

もう used as an interjection for emphasis/frustration.

もうお腹がいっぱいです。

I am already full.

もう + adjective (ippai) indicates a reached state.

もう誰もいません。

There is no one here anymore.

もう + daremo (no one) + negative verb.

もう我慢できません。

I can't stand it anymore.

もう used to express reaching an emotional limit.

もう一歩も歩けません。

I can't walk even one more step.

もう + counter + mo + negative verb for emphasis.

もう帰ったほうがいいですよ。

You should probably go home already.

もう used with a suggestion to add urgency.

もうすっかり忘れました。

I have completely forgotten it already.

もう + sukkari (completely) + past tense.

もう遅いから、寝なさい。

It's already late, so go to sleep.

もう + adjective used as a reason for an order.

もう限界だと思いました。

I thought I was already at my limit.

もう + noun (genkai) to show a final point.

もう二度と嘘はつきません。

I will never tell a lie again.

もう + nido to (never again) + negative verb.

もう、そんなこと言わないで。

Geez, don't say things like that anymore.

もう as an interjection followed by a request.

もうすぐ結果が出るはずです。

The results should be out very soon.

もうすぐ + hazu (expectation).

もうどうしようもありません。

There is nothing more that can be done.

もう + doushiyou mo nai (helpless situation).

もう少々お待ちいただけますか。

Could you please wait just a little longer? (Polite)

もう + shoushou (a little - formal) + polite request.

もう、あきれてものも言えない。

I'm so shocked I can't even speak anymore.

もう used to introduce a state of disbelief.

もう彼はかつての彼ではない。

He is no longer the man he used to be.

もう used to emphasize a profound personal change.

もう一息で完成です。

It's just one more step/breath away from completion.

もう + hito-iki (one breath/effort).

もう、いい加減にしてよ！

That's enough already! / Cut it out!

もう + ii kagen (enough/moderate) + emphatic particle.

もう一歩踏み込んで考えよう。

Let's take it one step further and think about it.

もう + counter used metaphorically for depth.

もう、言葉もありません。

I am truly speechless (already).

もう used to show that a state of awe has been reached.

もう、取り返しのつかないことになった。

It has already become something that cannot be undone.

もう + torikaeshi no tsukanai (irreversible).

もう、そんな時代ではないのだ。

It is no longer that kind of era.

もう used to mark a historical or social shift.

もう、何年も前の話です。

That's a story from many years ago already.

もう used to emphasize the passage of time.

もう、これ以上は望めない。

One cannot hope for anything more than this.

もう + kore ijou (more than this) + negative potential.

もう、彼には頼らないと決めた。

I've already decided not to rely on him anymore.

もう used to mark a firm psychological boundary.

もう、そんな言い訳は通用しない。

Such excuses won't work anymore.

もう used to invalidate a recurring action.

もう、これでお別れですね。

So, this is already the goodbye, isn't it?

もう used to acknowledge the arrival of a final moment.

もう、万策尽きた感がある。

There is a feeling that all possible measures have already been exhausted.

もう + bansaku tsukita (at one's wits' end).

もう、宿命としか言いようがない。

At this point, one can only call it fate.

もう used to express resignation to a higher power.

もう、この世に未練はない。

I no longer have any lingering attachments to this world.

もう used in a profound, spiritual context.

もう、語るべきことは何もない。

There is nothing left that should be said.

もう used to signal the absolute end of a discourse.

もう、かつての栄華は見る影もない。

There is no longer even a trace of its former glory.

もう + miru kage mo nai (a shadow of its former self).

もう、一刻の猶予も許されない。

Not even a moment's delay can be permitted anymore.

もう used to emphasize extreme, final urgency.

もう、それは過去の遺物でしかない。

It is now nothing more than a relic of the past.

もう used to categorize something as obsolete.

もう、これ以上の議論は無益だ。

Any further discussion is already useless.

もう used to terminate a process as unproductive.

Collocations courantes

もう一度

もうすぐ

もう一つ

もう少し

もう遅い

もうたくさん

もう二度と

もう限界

もう大丈夫

もう終わり

Phrases Courantes

もういいよ

もう、嫌だ

もう一回

もういい加減にして

もうすぐそこ

もうそんな時間？

もう結構です

もう手遅れ

もう一歩

もう一度だけ

Souvent confondu avec

もう vs まだ (Mada)

Mada means 'still' or 'not yet', while Mou means 'already' or 'no longer'.

もう vs もっと (Motto)

Motto means 'more' in degree (more beautiful), while Mou means 'more' in quantity (one more).

もう vs もうすぐ (Mou sugu)

Learners sometimes forget that 'mou' alone with present tense can mean 'soon', but 'mou sugu' is the standard phrase.

Expressions idiomatiques

"もう、あきれた"

To be amazed/shocked in a negative way. Expresses disbelief at someone's behavior.

君のわがままには、もうあきれたよ。

Informal

"もう、たくさんだ"

To have had enough of something. Expresses that a limit has been reached.

彼の自慢話はもうたくさんだ。

Neutral

"もう、どうにでもなれ"

Let happen what may / I don't care anymore. Expresses desperation or giving up.

もう、どうにでもなれという気持ちだ。

Informal

"もう、目も当てられない"

Too terrible to look at. Used for a disastrous situation.

その惨状は、もう目も当てられなかった。

Neutral

"もう、一刻も早い"

As soon as possible. Emphasizes the need for immediate action.

もう一刻も早い解決が望まれる。

Formal

"もう、後の祭り"

Too late (like a festival that has already ended).

今さら後悔しても、もう後の祭りだ。

Idiomatic

"もう、言葉に尽くせない"

Cannot be put into words. Expresses deep emotion or beauty.

その美しさは、もう言葉に尽くせない。

Formal

"もう、身も蓋もない"

Too blunt / Point-blank. Used when someone says something too directly.

そんなことを言ったら、もう身も蓋もないよ。

Informal

"もう、待ったなし"

No more waiting allowed / Time is up.

締め切りはもう待ったなしだ。

Neutral

"もう、これっきり"

This is the last time / Never again.

会うのはもうこれっきりにしよう。

Informal

Facile à confondre

もう vs まだ (Mada)

Both deal with the timing of actions and expectations.

Mou indicates a change has occurred or a limit is reached. Mada indicates a state is continuing or hasn't started yet.

もう食べた (Already ate) vs まだ食べていない (Haven't eaten yet).

もう vs もっと (Motto)

Both can be translated as 'more' in English.

Mou is for additional units (one more apple). Motto is for increasing a quality (a bigger apple).

もう一つ (One more) vs もっと大きい (Bigger).

もう vs 既に (Sude ni)

Both mean 'already'.

Mou is for daily conversation. Sude ni is for formal writing and reports.

もうやった (Did it) vs 既に完了した (Completed).

もう vs もはや (Mohaya)

Both can mean 'no longer'.

Mou is neutral. Mohaya is dramatic and implies it's too late or a major shift has occurred.

もう子供じゃない (Not a child anymore) vs もはや手遅れだ (It's already too late).

もう vs さらに (Sarani)

Both can mean 'more'.

Mou adds a unit. Sarani adds intensity or further information in a formal way.

もう一度 (One more time) vs さらに重要なこと (An even more important thing).

Structures de phrases

もう [Verb-ta]。

もう食べました。

もう [Number/Counter]。

もう一つください。

もう [Verb-nai]。

もう行きません。

もうすぐ [Verb]。

もうすぐ来ます。

もう [Adjective]。

もう遅いです。

もう [Noun] です。

もう冬です。

もう二度と [Verb-nai]。

もう二度と忘れません。

もう [Phrase] しかない。

もうやるしかない。

Famille de mots

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely High. It is one of the top 100 most used words in Japanese.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'mou' for 'not yet'. → まだ (Mada)
Learners often use 'mou' because they think of 'yet' in English. But 'not yet' is always 'mada' in Japanese.
Saying 'mou hayaku' for 'faster'. → もっと早く (Motto hayaku)
Use 'motto' for degree/adverbs. 'Mou' is for additional units of time or quantity.
Placing 'mou' after the number. → もう一つ (Mou hitotsu)
In Japanese, the adverb 'mou' must precede the quantifier it modifies.
Using 'mou' + present tense for 'already'. → もうしました (Mou shimashita)
'Mou' + present tense means 'soon.' You must use the past tense for 'already.'
Using 'mou!' with a teacher or boss. → すみません (Sumimasen) or other polite expressions.
The interjection 'mou!' is informal and can sound disrespectful or childish in a formal setting.

Astuces

Tense Matters

Always pair 'mou' with the past tense (-ta form) if you want to say 'already.' If you use the present tense, people will think you mean 'soon.'

Ordering Food

When ordering at a restaurant, use 'mou hitotsu' for 'one more' of the same dish. It's the most natural way to ask for a second helping.

Polite Refusal

Use 'mou kekkou desu' to politely say 'no thank you' when someone offers you more food or drink. It's very common and respectful.

Train Cues

Listen for 'mou sugu' on Japanese trains. It's your cue that your stop is next and you should get ready to exit.

Expressing Frustration

If you're annoyed, try saying 'mou!' It's a very 'Japanese' way to vent minor frustrations without being overly aggressive.

Business Emails

In professional emails, replace 'mou' with 'sude ni' (既に) to sound more sophisticated and formal.

Word Order

Always put 'mou' before the number. It's 'mou hitori' (one more person), never 'hitori mou.'

No Longer

To say you don't do something anymore, use 'mou' + negative verb. It's a great way to talk about lifestyle changes.

The Cow Rule

Remember the cow: 'Mooo' I've already eaten, give me more!

Context is King

The meaning of 'mou' shifts with the situation. Always look at the surrounding words to be sure of the intent.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'mou' as the sound a cow makes. A cow says 'Mooo' when it has already eaten all the grass and wants more.

Association visuelle

Imagine a clock where the hand has already passed the 12, and someone is holding one more slice of pizza.

Word Web

Already More Yet Soon No longer Geez! Enough Again

Défi

Try to use 'mou' in three different ways today: once for 'already', once for 'one more', and once as an interjection.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Old Japanese word 'ma' (space/interval) combined with an emphatic particle. It originally referred to a space or time that had been filled or crossed.

Sens originel : A point in time or space that has been reached or exceeded.

Japonic

Contexte culturel

Be careful using the interjection 'mou!' with superiors, as it can sound childish or disrespectful.

English speakers often struggle with 'mou' because 'already' and 'yet' are used differently in English questions and negatives.

Commonly heard in anime when a character is annoyed (e.g., 'Mou, baka!'). Used in the famous song 'Mou sugu haru desu ne' (It's almost spring, isn't it?). Frequent in Japanese TV commercials to emphasize 'new' or 'already available' products.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Restaurant

もう一杯ください (One more glass please)
もう一つ注文してもいいですか (Can I order one more?)
もうお腹いっぱいです (I'm already full)
もうすぐ料理が来ます (The food will come soon)

School/Work

もう終わりました (I'm already finished)
もう一度説明してください (Please explain one more time)
もうすぐ会議です (The meeting is very soon)
もう資料は送りました (I already sent the documents)

Daily Conversation

もうこんな時間！ (It's already this time!)
もう、いい加減にして (That's enough already)
もうすぐ着くよ (I'll arrive soon)
もう大丈夫だよ (It's okay now)

Shopping

もう一回り大きいのはありますか (Do you have one size larger?)
もう売り切れました (It's already sold out)
もう少しまけてください (Please discount it a little more)
もう一つ買います (I'll buy one more)

Travel

もうすぐ東京駅です (It's almost Tokyo Station)
もう出発しましたか (Has it already departed?)
もう一泊したいです (I want to stay one more night)
もう道に迷いました (I'm already lost)

Amorces de conversation

"もうお昼ご飯は食べましたか？ (Have you already eaten lunch?)"

"もうすぐ休みですね。どこか行きますか？ (It's almost vacation. Are you going somewhere?)"

"もう日本に来てどのくらいですか？ (How long has it been since you came to Japan already?)"

"もう一度、お名前を伺ってもいいですか？ (May I ask your name one more time?)"

"もうこの映画は見ましたか？ (Have you already seen this movie?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、もう終わらせたことを書いてください。 (Write about something you already finished today.)

もう一度やりたい経験は何ですか？ (What is an experience you want to do one more time?)

もう二度としたくないことはありますか？ (Is there something you never want to do again?)

もうすぐ楽しみな予定はありますか？ (Do you have any plans you are looking forward to soon?)

もう、嫌だ！と思った瞬間はいつですか？ (When was a moment you thought 'Geez, I've had enough!')

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, but it usually changes the meaning to 'soon' or 'about to.' For example, 'mou kimasu' means 'he will come soon.' To say 'already,' you must use the past tense: 'mou kimashita.'

'Mou ichido' is slightly more formal and polite, while 'mou ikkai' is more casual. Both mean 'one more time' and are used frequently.

You should use 'mada' + negative verb. For example, 'mada tabete imasen' (I haven't eaten yet). Do not use 'mou' for 'not yet.'

Yes, 'mou' is almost exclusively written in hiragana. While kanji exists for it, they are extremely rare and considered archaic in modern Japanese.

Yes, in phrases like 'mou ichido' (one more time/again). However, 'mata' is the more common word for 'again' in general contexts.

Simply say 'Mou!' at the beginning of a sentence or on its own. The tone should be slightly sharp or elongated ('Mouuu!') to convey annoyance.

It can mean 'I'm fine now,' 'That's enough,' or 'I'm done with this.' The meaning depends heavily on the tone and context.

Yes, in the phrase 'mou sugu' (very soon/close). For example, 'mou sugu soko desu' means 'it's just right there.'

Use 'mou' when you can count the 'more' (one more, two more). Use 'motto' when you are describing a quality (more beautiful, more expensive).

'Mou' itself is neutral. It can be used in polite speech ('mou tabemashita') or casual speech ('mou tabeta'). However, the interjection 'mou!' is usually informal.