Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Already" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "already", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
もう
もう (mou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
既に
すでに (sudeni)
B2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "already" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between もう and 既に.
In Japanese, もう (もう (mou)) is typically associated with "already; yet; anymore (with negative); another; again" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A versatile word with multiple meanings. It commonly indicates completion.
On the other hand, 既に (すでに (sudeni)) maps to "already" (Syllabus Level: B2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR B2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "already" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "もう"
彼はもう会社に着きました。
He has already arrived at the office.
Bilingual Context for "既に"
私は既にに興味があります。
I am interested in already.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 会社に着きました。" (Meaning: "He has already arrived at the office.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "もう" fits here because it means "already; yet; anymore (with negative); another; again" in the context of: "He has already arrived at the office.". "既に" represents "already".