In 15 Seconds
- Place it before the verb to mean 'already'.
- Usually pairs with 'le' at the end of the sentence.
- Works for time, age, actions, and completed states.
Meaning
Use this to show that an action is finished or a situation has already started. It is the perfect way to say something is 'done and dusted' or that you've moved past a certain point.
Key Examples
3 of 6Declining a second lunch
我已经吃饱了。
I am already full.
Checking in at the office
经理已经开会了。
The manager has already started the meeting.
Texting a friend who is late
我已经在餐厅了，你呢？
I'm already at the restaurant, where are you?
Cultural Background
Used frequently in workplace settings to show efficiency. Usage is identical to the mainland, very common in daily speech.
Add 'le'
Always add 'le' at the end of the sentence to sound more natural.
In 15 Seconds
- Place it before the verb to mean 'already'.
- Usually pairs with 'le' at the end of the sentence.
- Works for time, age, actions, and completed states.
What It Means
已经 is your go-to word for 'already.' It signals that a state has changed. It tells people that the 'before' is gone. Now, we are in the 'after.' It is simple but powerful. It turns a regular verb into a completed mission.
How To Use It
Place 已经 before your verb or adjective. You will almost always see a 了 at the end. Think of 已经 and 了 as best friends. They work together to frame the past. For example, 我已经吃了 means 'I have already eaten.' Without the 了, the sentence feels like it's missing a shoe. It works for time, age, and actions alike.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to emphasize completion. Use it when someone offers you food you just finished. Use it when you are running late and time has passed. It is great for reporting progress at work. It is also perfect for telling a persistent ex that you have moved on. It adds a layer of 'this is a fact now.'
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for things happening right now. If you are currently eating, skip it. Do not use it for future plans. It is strictly for things that have already kicked off. Also, avoid using it for permanent facts. You wouldn't say the sun is 'already' hot. That is just how the sun is.
Cultural Background
In Chinese culture, being efficient is highly valued. Using 已经 shows you are on top of things. It is a word of resolution. In fast-paced cities like Shanghai, you hear it constantly. It reflects a society that moves quickly. People want to know what is finished so they can move to the next task.
Common Variations
In casual speech, people often shorten it to just 已. You might see this in text messages or news headlines. Sometimes people add 都 for extra drama. 都已经...了 sounds like 'It is already [and I can't believe it].' It adds a bit of flavor to your frustration or surprise.
Usage Notes
Perfect for all levels of formality. Just remember the 'Already... Verb... Le' sandwich for the most natural flow.
Add 'le'
Always add 'le' at the end of the sentence to sound more natural.
Examples
6我已经吃饱了。
I am already full.
A polite way to stop someone from giving you more food.
经理已经开会了。
The manager has already started the meeting.
Professional reporting of a current state.
我已经在餐厅了，你呢？
I'm already at the restaurant, where are you?
The 'already' emphasizes that the speaker is waiting.
他已经十岁了，长得真快！
He is already ten years old, he grows so fast!
Used with age to show surprise at the passage of time.
我晚上九点已经想睡觉了。
It's only 9 PM and I already want to sleep.
Highlights a funny or relatable personal state.
演出已经开始了，请安静。
The performance has already begun, please be quiet.
Used to set a boundary in a formal setting.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
我 ___ 吃过饭了。
已经 indicates completion.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises我 ___ 吃过饭了。
已经 indicates completion.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, never.
Related Phrases
还没
contrastNot yet
