What is the difference between "すでに" and "既に"?

"すでに" means "already; before; previously" (N3), whereas "既に" represents "already" (B2).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "すでに (sudeni)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

すでに (sudeni)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

すでに (sudeni)

B2 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "すでに (sudeni)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

すでに (Level: N3): Translates to "already; before; previously" and is used when An adverb indicating that something has happened or is completed prior to a specific point in time. Often used with past tense verbs..
既に (Level: B2): Maps to "already" and carries the nuance of Essential structural term in CEFR B2 vocabulary syllabus..

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "すでに"

会議が始まる前に、私はすでに資料を準備しました。

I had already prepared the materials before the meeting started.

Bilingual Context for "既に"

私は既にに興味があります。

I am interested in already.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "会議が始まる前に、私は＿＿＿資料を準備しました。" (Meaning: "I had already prepared the materials before the meeting started.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "すでに" is used for "already; before; previously" in the context: "I had already prepared the materials before the meeting started.".