Yet, still and ready

Yet means that we are expecting something.

Still means 'going on longer than expected'.

Already means 'sooner than expected'.

  • Yet usually goes at the end of a negative statement or a question.

    Vicky has got a present, but she hasn't opened it yet. Wait a minute. I'm not ready yet. Have they sent you your cheque yet? No, not yet. I should get it next week.

  • In a positive statement, still and already usually go in mid position.

    Sarah isn't home yet. She's still at work. We wrote a month ago, and we're still waiting for a reply. I've only been at work an hour, and I'm already exhausted.

    There's no need to tell me. I already know.

  • We can also use still in a negative statement. It goes before haven't, can't, etc.

    It's nearly lunch-time, and you still haven't opened your mail. My friend is sixteen, and she still can't swim.

    *Compare these sentences. The meanings are similar.

    Rita hasn't booked a holiday yet. Rita still hasn't booked a holiday. Still is stronger than yet. It often expresses surprise that the situation has gone on for so long.

    In a question still and already usually go after the subject.

    Are you still waiting after all this time? Has Tom already been on holiday?