already
/ɑlˈɹɛdi/ adverb A1- Prior to some specified time, either past, present, or future; by this time; previously. · I was surprised that she hadn’t already told me the news.· Much of what he said I knew already.
- So soon. · Are you quitting already?
- An intensifier used to emphasize impatience or express exasperation. · I wish they'd finish already, so we can get going.· Enough already!
- Indicates the completion of an action (whether past or hypothetical), or more generally, perfective aspect. · You frame the picture for me already anot?
- Marks a change in state, more or less in the same manner as the inchoative aspect. · I don’t think he can take it already.· Your ice cream is melting already.
From the library
I have already recorded sentence of death, five or six times, against the movers of political conspiracies, and who can say how many daggers may be ready sharpened, and only waiting a favorable opportunity to be buried in my heart?”
“You see,” said Danglars, “he fancies himself captain already, upon my word.”
However, those experienced in navigation saw plainly that if any accident had occurred, it was not to the vessel herself, for she bore down with all the evidence of being skilfully handled, the anchor a-cockbill, the jib-boom guys already eased off, and standing by the side of the pilot, who was steering the Pharaon towards the narrow entrance of the inner port, was a young man, who, with activity and vigilant eye, watched every motion of the ship, and repeated each direction of the pilot.
I have already successfully conducted several public prosecutions, and brought the offenders to merited punishment.
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