Explanation at your level:
Hello! 'Always' is a word that means something happens all the time. Imagine your favorite toy; you play with it always! Or think about the sun; it always comes up in the morning. It's like saying 'yes, every time!' It's a very useful word to say that something is constant and never stops. You can say, 'I always eat breakfast.' This means you eat breakfast every single day, no exceptions! It shows that something is a habit or a fact that is true for you.
The adverb 'always' tells us that something happens on every occasion or all the time. It's used to describe habits, routines, or things that are consistently true. For instance, 'My dog always barks when the doorbell rings.' This means the dog barks every single time someone rings the bell. We also use it for general truths, like 'Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius; it always does.' It emphasizes that there are no exceptions.
'Always' is an adverb of frequency indicating that an action or state occurs at all times or on every occasion. It's frequently used to describe regular habits and routines. For example, 'I always check my email before leaving work.' It can also express a strong belief or a constant state: 'She always has a smile for everyone.' When used in promises or statements of commitment, it conveys a sense of permanence: 'I will always be your friend.' Understanding its placement in a sentence (usually before the main verb, after 'to be') is key.
The adverb 'always' signifies perpetuity or constancy, meaning at all times or on every occasion without exception. It's crucial for expressing ingrained habits ('He always arrives early') and unchanging truths ('The Earth always revolves around the sun'). In more nuanced usage, 'always' can be employed to emphasize a consistent characteristic ('She's always so thoughtful') or even with a hint of exasperation in informal contexts ('You're always losing your keys!'). Its placement typically follows auxiliary verbs but precedes the main verb, contributing to the flow and clarity of complex sentences.
As an adverb of frequency, 'always' denotes absolute regularity, occurring at all times or on every conceivable occasion. Beyond describing habitual actions ('They always collaborate effectively on projects') or immutable facts ('Light always travels faster than sound'), 'always' can carry significant emotional weight in expressions of devotion or enduring states ('Our love will last always'). In certain contexts, particularly informal ones, it might be used hyperbolically to express mild irritation or emphasis on a recurring pattern ('He's always interrupting me'). Mastery involves recognizing its role in establishing certainty, commitment, and consistent patterns, both literally and figuratively.
'Always' signifies the ultimate degree of frequency, denoting an action or state that is perpetual, invariant, or occurs on every possible occasion. Its semantic range extends from the literal ('The sun always rises in the east') to the profound expression of eternal commitment ('I will always cherish your memory'). In literary or rhetorical contexts, 'always' can be employed for dramatic effect, emphasizing the unyielding nature of a character's traits or a situation's persistence ('The past always haunts the present'). Understanding its subtle connotations, including potential hyperbole in colloquial speech ('You always say that!'), and its grammatical positioning relative to auxiliary and main verbs, is essential for nuanced comprehension and sophisticated expression.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Means 'at all times' or 'on every occasion'.
- Used for habits, facts, and strong promises.
- Typically placed before main verbs, after 'to be'.
- A very common adverb indicating high frequency.
Hey there! Let's dive into the word 'always'. It's a super common adverb that tells us something happens all the time, without fail. Think of it as a constant, a reliable presence in your sentences. It can describe actions, states of being, or even general truths that are unchanging.
When you use 'always', you're emphasizing that something is perpetual or happens on every single occasion. It's not just sometimes, or often, but truly, consistently, always. This makes it a powerful word for expressing certainty and reliability, whether you're talking about habits, facts, or promises.
So, next time you want to say something is constant or happens without exception, remember 'always'. It's a fantastic tool for adding emphasis and clarity to your communication, making your message crystal clear!
The word 'always' has a lovely, straightforward history! It comes to us from Old English, where it was 'eallвей' (pronounced roughly 'all-way'). As you can see, it's literally a combination of 'all' and 'way', meaning 'in every way' or 'on every occasion'.
Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved naturally through Middle English and into the form we use today. The core meaning, however, has remained remarkably consistent: indicating something that happens without exception or at all times. It's a testament to the clarity of its original construction that it's still so widely understood and used.
Interestingly, many languages have similar constructions for 'always', often combining words for 'all' and 'time' or 'way'. This suggests that the concept of perpetual occurrence is fundamental to human thought and language. 'Always' is a perfect example of how simple, descriptive roots can create enduring and essential vocabulary.
You'll find 'always' popping up everywhere! It's incredibly versatile. We often use it to talk about habits or routines, like 'I always drink coffee in the morning.' It can also describe things that are true all the time, such as 'The sky is always blue during the day.'
When it comes to placement, 'always' usually sits before the main verb (except for the verb 'to be', where it follows). For example, 'She always helps her friends,' but 'She is always kind.' Common collocations include 'always remember,' 'always believe,' 'always try,' and 'always be.' These pairings reinforce the idea of constancy.
In more formal settings, 'always' maintains its meaning of perpetuity. In casual conversation, it can sometimes be used with a touch of exaggeration for emphasis, like 'I'll always love this song!' It's a word that bridges the gap between factual statements and expressions of strong feeling, making it a staple in everyday English.
While 'always' itself isn't typically part of a fixed idiom, it's used frequently in expressions that convey consistent states or actions. Here are a few ways it shows up:
- Always a bridesmaid, never a bride: This describes someone who is frequently involved in important events or situations but never gets the main role or ultimate success. Example: 'He's always getting promoted to assistant manager, but he's always a bridesmaid, never a bride.'
- Always on my mind: This means someone or something is constantly being thought about. Example: 'Since you left, you're always on my mind.'
- Always room for improvement: This suggests that a situation or performance can still be made better, no matter how good it is. Example: 'While the team played well, there's always room for improvement.'
- Always look on the bright side: This encourages optimism, even in difficult circumstances. Example: 'Try to stay positive; it's important to always look on the bright side.'
- Always and forever: This expresses a commitment or feeling that will last eternally. Example: 'I promise to love you always and forever.'
These phrases use 'always' to highlight the unending nature of the situation or feeling being described.
Grammatically, 'always' is an adverb of frequency. It typically appears in the 'mid-position' in a sentence, meaning it usually comes after auxiliary verbs (like 'be', 'have', 'do') and modal verbs (like 'can', 'will', 'should'), but before the main verb. For example: 'He is always late,' or 'She can always find a solution.'
When using the verb 'to be' as the main verb, 'always' comes after it: 'They are always happy.' If there are multiple auxiliary verbs, 'always' usually follows the first one: 'He has always been supportive.' Remember, it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, telling us *how often* something happens.
Pronunciation:
- British English (IPA): /ˈɔːlweɪz/ (OLL-wayz)
- American English (IPA): /ˈɔːlweɪz/ (AWL-wayz)
The stress is on the first syllable. It sounds similar to 'all ways'. Rhyming words are rare, but words ending in '-ays' like 'ways' or 'days' share the final sound.
Fun Fact
The word 'always' is a direct descendant of the Old English phrase 'eallвей', literally meaning 'all way'. It perfectly captures the idea of moving or existing in every possible manner or at every time.
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with a long 'aw' sound like in 'all', followed by 'wayz' like in 'ways'. Stress is on the first syllable.
Similar to UK, with the 'aw' sound as in 'law'. The ending 'z' sound is clear. Stress is on the first syllable.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the 'a' as in 'cat' instead of 'aw'.
- Dropping the final 'z' sound.
- Putting stress on the second syllable.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
easy/hard to read
easy/hard to write
easy/hard to say
easy/hard to understand
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adverb Placement (Adverbs of Frequency)
He <strong>always</strong> works hard. (Mid-position)
Verb 'to be' vs. Other Verbs
She <strong>is always</strong> late. vs. She <strong>always</strong> arrives late.
Use of Modal Verbs
You <strong>can always</strong> ask for help.
Examples by Level
I always eat breakfast.
I / always / eat / breakfast
'always' comes before 'eat'.
The sun always shines.
The / sun / always / shines
'always' tells us when the sun shines.
Mom always helps me.
Mom / always / helps / me
'always' means mom helps every time.
He always plays.
He / always / plays
'always' means he plays a lot.
Birds always fly.
Birds / always / fly
'always' shows what birds do.
I always drink water.
I / always / drink / water
'always' means every time I am thirsty.
She always smiles.
She / always / smiles
'always' means she smiles often.
We always learn.
We / always / learn
'always' means we learn every day.
I always brush my teeth before bed.
I / always / brush / my teeth / before / bed
'always' indicates a regular habit.
My brother always wakes up early.
My brother / always / wakes up / early
Placement: 'always' before the main verb 'wakes up'.
The library is always quiet.
The library / is / always / quiet
Placement: 'always' after the verb 'is'.
We always try our best.
We / always / try / our best
'always' emphasizes consistent effort.
She always remembers my birthday.
She / always / remembers / my birthday
Indicates a reliable action.
It always rains in November here.
It / always / rains / in November / here
Describes a recurring weather pattern.
He always listens carefully.
He / always / listens / carefully
'always' modifies the adverb 'carefully'.
You can always call me if you need help.
You / can / always / call / me / if / you need / help
Placement with modal verb 'can': 'can always'.
I always make sure to lock the door before leaving.
I / always / make sure / to lock / the door / before leaving
Emphasizes a consistent habit for security.
She has always been passionate about environmental issues.
She / has / always / been / passionate / about / environmental issues
Indicates a long-standing and consistent state.
The train is always on time, which is very convenient.
The train / is / always / on time, / which is / very convenient
Highlights reliability and predictability.
We should always strive for excellence in our work.
We / should / always / strive / for excellence / in our work
Expresses a continuous goal or aspiration.
He always offers constructive criticism.
He / always / offers / constructive criticism
Describes a consistent behavioral pattern.
No matter the weather, the postman always delivers the mail.
No matter / the weather, / the postman / always / delivers / the mail
Emphasizes unwavering duty or function.
You can always count on her to be honest.
You / can / always / count on / her / to be / honest
Expresses complete reliability and trustworthiness.
Technology is always evolving, so we must keep learning.
Technology / is / always / evolving, / so / we must / keep learning
Describes a continuous process of change.
Despite the challenges, she has always maintained a positive outlook.
Despite / the challenges, / she / has / always / maintained / a positive outlook
Highlights a consistent disposition irrespective of circumstances.
The company's policy is that employees must always adhere to the code of conduct.
The company's policy / is / that employees / must / always / adhere / to the code of conduct
Expresses a mandatory and perpetual requirement.
He always seems to know the right thing to say in difficult situations.
He / always / seems / to know / the right thing / to say / in difficult situations
Suggests an innate or consistently demonstrated ability.
Environmental awareness is something we should always be mindful of.
Environmental awareness / is / something / we should / always / be mindful of
Stresses the perpetual need for consideration.
The chef always insists on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The chef / always / insists on / using / fresh, / locally sourced / ingredients
Indicates a non-negotiable and consistent practice.
Though fashions change, classic literature will always hold its value.
Though fashions change, / classic literature / will / always / hold / its value
Asserts the enduring and timeless worth of something.
You can always rely on him to provide insightful analysis.
You / can / always / rely on / him / to provide / insightful analysis
Confirms unwavering dependability for a specific quality.
The museum guarantees that its exhibits will always be educational and engaging.
The museum / guarantees / that its exhibits / will / always / be / educational and engaging
A formal assurance of consistent quality.
Her unwavering dedication meant she was always the first to arrive and the last to leave the office.
Her unwavering dedication / meant / she was / always / the first to arrive / and the last to leave / the office
Emphasizes extreme commitment through consistent action.
The fundamental principles of democracy should always be upheld, regardless of political shifts.
The fundamental principles / of democracy / should / always / be upheld, / regardless of / political shifts
Stresses the perpetual necessity and importance of core values.
He possesses a rare talent for making complex subjects accessible; he can always simplify the most intricate ideas.
He possesses / a rare talent / for making / complex subjects / accessible; / he can / always / simplify / the most intricate ideas
Highlights a consistent and remarkable ability.
In this rapidly changing world, it's vital that we always remain adaptable and open to new perspectives.
In this rapidly changing world, / it's vital / that we / always / remain / adaptable / and open / to new perspectives
Underscores the continuous requirement for flexibility.
The artist's signature style is evident; her work is always characterized by bold colors and dynamic compositions.
The artist's signature style / is evident; / her work / is / always / characterized by / bold colors / and dynamic compositions
Defines a consistent and defining feature of her artistic output.
Despite the economic downturn, the charity has always managed to meet the needs of its beneficiaries.
Despite / the economic downturn, / the charity / has / always / managed / to meet / the needs / of its beneficiaries
Signifies persistent success in fulfilling its mission against adversity.
One must always question assumptions, even those that seem self-evident, to foster critical thinking.
One must / always / question / assumptions, / even those / that seem / self-evident, / to foster / critical thinking
Advocates for perpetual intellectual scrutiny.
The enduring appeal of the novel lies in its exploration of universal themes that resonate always with readers.
The enduring appeal / of the novel / lies in / its exploration / of universal themes / that resonate / always / with readers
Suggests a timeless and constant connection across generations.
The philosopher argued that the pursuit of truth is a journey one must always embark upon, never reaching a final destination.
The philosopher / argued / that the pursuit / of truth / is a journey / one must / always / embark upon, / never reaching / a final destination
Connotes an unending, essential quest, highlighting the process over the outcome.
Her legacy is cemented; she will always be remembered as the architect of the peace accords.
Her legacy / is cemented; / she will / always / be remembered / as the architect / of the peace accords
Implies eternal remembrance and historical significance.
The inherent tension between individual liberty and collective security is a dilemma that society must always navigate.
The inherent tension / between / individual liberty / and collective security / is a dilemma / that society / must / always / navigate
Denotes a persistent, ongoing challenge requiring continuous management.
In the grand tapestry of history, certain ideals remain constant, always serving as guiding stars for humanity.
In the grand tapestry / of history, / certain ideals / remain constant, / always / serving as / guiding stars / for humanity
Suggests timeless principles that perpetually offer direction.
The artist's commitment to her craft was absolute; she was always experimenting, always pushing the boundaries of her medium.
The artist's commitment / to her craft / was absolute; / she was / always / experimenting, / always / pushing the boundaries / of her medium
Emphasizes relentless innovation and dedication throughout her career.
The fundamental laws of physics appear to hold true always, across the vastness of space and time.
The fundamental laws / of physics / appear / to hold true / always, / across the vastness / of space and time
Asserts the universal and unchanging nature of scientific principles.
One should always approach the study of ancient texts with humility, recognizing the vastness of what remains unknown.
One should / always / approach / the study / of ancient texts / with humility, / recognizing / the vastness / of what remains unknown
Recommends a perpetual attitude of reverence and intellectual modesty.
The echoes of past injustices serve as a constant reminder, urging us always to strive for a more equitable future.
The echoes / of past injustices / serve as / a constant reminder, / urging us / always / to strive / for a more equitable future
Highlights the perpetual influence of history on present actions and future aspirations.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"Always a bridesmaid, never a bride"
Someone who is often involved in important events or successes but never achieves the main goal or recognition themselves.
He's been the vice president for ten years; he's always a bridesmaid, never a bride.
casual/idiomatic"Always on my mind"
Constantly being thought about; occupying one's thoughts.
Ever since I met her, she's always on my mind.
neutral/romantic"Always look on the bright side"
To remain optimistic, even in difficult situations.
Even though you failed the test, always look on the bright side – now you know what to study more!
neutral/encouraging"Always and forever"
For all time; eternally.
They promised to stay together always and forever.
romantic/emphatic"There's always tomorrow"
A phrase suggesting that if something doesn't work out today, there will be another chance or a better situation in the future.
Don't worry too much about the lost game; there's always tomorrow.
casual/optimistic"Always up to something"
Said about someone who is often busy with secret or mischievous activities.
Little Timmy is quiet today, I wonder what he's always up to.
casual/playfulEasily Confused
Both indicate frequency.
'Always' means 100% of the time. 'Usually' means most of the time, but not always.
I <strong>always</strong> brush my teeth. (Every single time) vs. I <strong>usually</strong> brush my teeth. (Most times, but maybe I forget sometimes).
Both suggest a long duration or permanence.
'Always' refers to all times within a given context or period. 'Forever' implies eternity, without end, often used for stronger emotional impact.
I will <strong>always</strong> love you. (Implies for the duration of our relationship/life) vs. I will love you <strong>forever</strong>. (Implies eternally, without end).
Both relate to time and frequency.
'Always' means at all times. 'Ever' often means 'at any time' (especially in questions/negatives) or 'at all times' in specific contexts like 'if you ever need help'.
Are you <strong>always</strong> happy? (Implies 100% of the time) vs. Are you <strong>ever</strong> happy? (Implies 'at any time' - are you happy right now or have you been happy recently?). 'If you <strong>ever</strong> need help' means 'if you need help at any time'.
Both suggest ongoing action.
'Always' implies no interruption. 'Continually' means happening repeatedly, possibly with breaks in between.
The phone rang <strong>always</strong>. (Implies it never stopped ringing) vs. The phone rang <strong>continually</strong>. (Implies it rang many times, perhaps with pauses).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + always + verb
She <strong>always</strong> helps.
Subject + be + always + adjective/noun
He <strong>is always</strong> cheerful.
Subject + modal + always + verb
You <strong>can always</strong> try again.
Subject + have/has + always + past participle
They <strong>have always</strong> lived here.
Subject + do/does + always + verb (question/negative)
Do you <strong>always</strong> forget your keys?
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
Adverbs of frequency like 'always' usually come before the main verb (help) but after the verb 'to be' (He is always helpful).
'All the time' can sometimes imply monotony or annoyance more strongly than 'always'. 'Always' is generally more neutral.
Saying 'I always forget my keys' might be an exaggeration. Use 'usually' or 'often' for more accurate frequency.
'Always' should follow the first auxiliary verb ('has'), not the main verb ('been').
While 'Have you always seen...' is grammatically possible, 'ever' is standard for asking about any time in the past.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a grand hall (your memory palace). In the center is a giant clock that ticks 'always'. Around it are doors labeled with 'all ways' – every possible path. This connects 'always' to 'all ways' and the idea of constant time.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers use 'always' for habits ('I always drink tea'), facts ('The sun always rises in the east'), strong promises ('I'll always support you'), and sometimes with mild exaggeration ('You're always asking that!').
Cultural Insight
In many cultures, expressing 'always' implies a deep level of trust or commitment. Be mindful when making promises using 'always', as it sets a high expectation.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the 'mid-position' rule: 'always' hugs the verb! After 'be' (is, am, are), before other verbs (go, eat, play), and after helping verbs (can, will, have).
Say It Right
Focus on the clear 'AW' sound at the beginning (like 'awe') and the 'Z' sound at the end. Practice saying 'ALL WAYS' clearly.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid placing 'always' after the main verb unless it's 'to be'. Instead of 'He helps always', say 'He always helps'.
Did You Know?
'Always' is one of the 100 most frequent words in the English language, showing just how essential it is for expressing constancy.
Study Smart
Keep a 'Frequency Journal'. Note down actions you do 'always', 'usually', 'sometimes', and 'never'. This reinforces the meaning and usage of frequency adverbs.
Synonym Swap Practice
Take a sentence with 'always' and try replacing it with 'constantly', 'forever', or 'invariably'. Notice how the meaning or emphasis slightly changes.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'ALL WAYS' you can do something. If you can do it in ALL WAYS, you do it ALWAYS.
Visual Association
Imagine a clock with hands that never stop moving, going around ALL the time, ALWAYS.
Word Web
Challenge
Write five sentences about your daily routine using the word 'always'.
Word Origin
Old English
Original meaning: 'eallвей' - in every way, on every occasion.
Cultural Context
While generally neutral, overuse in complaining can sound whiny ('He's always late!'). In promises, it carries significant weight.
In English-speaking cultures, 'always' is used to express reliability, habit, and strong emotion. It's common in promises ('I'll always love you'), expressions of loyalty ('Always a friend'), and descriptions of unchanging characteristics ('She's always been helpful').
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Daily Routines
- I always wake up at 7 AM.
- She always has breakfast.
- We always watch a movie on Fridays.
Expressing Reliability
- You can always count on me.
- He's always there when you need him.
- This restaurant is always excellent.
Describing Habits
- They always play chess after dinner.
- He always wears a hat.
- She always reads before sleeping.
Stating Facts/Truths
- Water always boils at 100°C.
- The Earth always rotates.
- Light always travels faster than sound.
Conversation Starters
"What's something you always do before going on vacation?"
"Is there a food you could eat always?"
"What's a piece of advice you always give to people?"
"What's something that always makes you laugh?"
"Do you think people always tell the truth?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a habit you have that you always follow. Why is it important to you?
Write about a time someone was always there for you. How did it make you feel?
Think about a goal you have. What steps will you always take to achieve it?
What are some things you believe should always be true in the world? Explain why.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions'Always' means 100% of the time, with no exceptions. 'Usually' means most of the time, but not always – perhaps 80-90% of the time.
It's usually placed before the main verb (e.g., 'I always eat') but after the verb 'to be' (e.g., 'I am always hungry') or after a modal verb (e.g., 'I can always help').
Yes, 'always' is often used in promises to emphasize commitment and permanence, like 'I will always be there for you.'
Yes, but it's less common. For example, 'He doesn't always agree with me.' Often, 'not always' implies 'sometimes not'.
The most direct opposite is 'never'. Other antonyms indicating less frequency include 'rarely', 'seldom', and 'sometimes'.
Generally no, 'always' implies constancy. If something changes, you'd use words like 'usually', 'often', or 'sometimes'.
'Always' is an adverb, so it doesn't have plural or countable forms.
It's extremely common, one of the most frequent adverbs in English, used in almost all contexts.
Test Yourself
I ______ drink milk in the morning.
'Always' fits because it indicates a regular habit that happens every morning.
Which sentence means something happens on every occasion?
The word 'always' indicates that the action (smiling) happens every time without fail.
The statement 'The sun always sets in the west' is true.
This is a general truth about the Earth's rotation, making 'always' an appropriate adverb.
Word
Meaning
This exercise helps differentiate between levels of frequency.
The correct order is 'She is always kind'. 'Always' follows the verb 'is'.
We should ______ strive for our goals.
'Always' fits the context of encouraging continuous effort towards goals.
Which sentence uses 'always' to express a consistent characteristic?
Option 2 describes a consistent personality trait, while others describe habits, promises, or natural phenomena.
The adverb 'always' can sometimes be used hyperbolically in informal speech.
Yes, for example, 'You're always late!' might be an exaggeration to emphasize frequency.
The enduring success of the company can be attributed to its ______ commitment to innovation.
'Perpetual' (meaning continuous, unending) is the best fit here, synonymously expressing the idea of 'always'.
Correct the sentence: 'She always is happy.'
With the verb 'to be', 'always' comes after it: 'She is always happy.'
Score: /10
Summary
Always use 'always' to emphasize that something happens without fail, every single time.
- Means 'at all times' or 'on every occasion'.
- Used for habits, facts, and strong promises.
- Typically placed before main verbs, after 'to be'.
- A very common adverb indicating high frequency.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a grand hall (your memory palace). In the center is a giant clock that ticks 'always'. Around it are doors labeled with 'all ways' – every possible path. This connects 'always' to 'all ways' and the idea of constant time.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers use 'always' for habits ('I always drink tea'), facts ('The sun always rises in the east'), strong promises ('I'll always support you'), and sometimes with mild exaggeration ('You're always asking that!').
Cultural Insight
In many cultures, expressing 'always' implies a deep level of trust or commitment. Be mindful when making promises using 'always', as it sets a high expectation.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the 'mid-position' rule: 'always' hugs the verb! After 'be' (is, am, are), before other verbs (go, eat, play), and after helping verbs (can, will, have).
Example
彼女はいつも笑顔だ。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
