すでに means already. It is a JLPT N3 grammar pattern used to state that something has already happened or is already the case.
This grammar point often appears in neutral to formal Japanese. If you want to state that something has already happened or is already the case, すでに is a useful pattern to learn.
What does すでに mean?
Use すでに when you want to state that something has already happened or is already the case.
Natural translations include:
- already
- already
- already
How to form すでに
Examples of the pattern:
- すでに終わった
- すでに知っている
- すでに始まっている
When is すでに used?
Use すでに in situations like:
- formal reports
- completed actions
- existing states
Tone and register:
- neutral to formal
- Common in JLPT reading, grammar questions, and natural Japanese sentences
すでに example sentences
After reading each sentence, ask what job すでに is doing: stating that something has already happened or is already the case.
Nuance of すでに
The key nuance is a slightly formal “already,” often used in reports or explanations.
This matters because すでに does more than translate one English phrase. It shows how the speaker connects ideas, evaluates a situation, or frames the sentence for the listener.
For example:
- In context, it sounds natural when the surrounding sentence supports the nuance.
- Compared with もう, it has a different focus and level of formality.
すでに vs もう
Common mistakes with すでに
A helpful practice method is to write one sentence with すでに, then rewrite it with もう.
Is すでに on the JLPT?
Practice questions for すでに
Learning path for すでに
To learn すでに efficiently, review the formation first, then compare it with the closest existing grammar point before writing your own sentence.
Related grammar to review next
- もう — already or anymore.
- 上で（うえで） — after; when; for the purpose of.
- たとたん — as soon as; just when.
- たて — freshly; just done.
Learn すでに with Hane
If you want to review すでに together with the related patterns above, Hane helps you connect grammar, kanji, and vocabulary in short, focused sessions.
Browse more lessons here:
FAQ about すでに
What does すでに (sude ni) mean in Japanese?
すでに (sude ni) means “already”. It is JLPT N3 grammar. Use すでに when you want to state that something has already happened or is already the case.
How do you form すでに (sude ni)?
すでに + Verb / Predicate
What is the difference between すでに and もう?
すでに: already — formal, objective, neutral. もう: already — casual, everyday, direct.
What is an example sentence with すでに (sude ni)?
会議はすでに始まっています。 — The meeting has already started.