すでに

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

The best translation depends on the sentence. Try to notice the writer’s or speaker’s purpose first, then choose the English phrase that fits that context.

How to form すでに

Examples of the pattern:

• すでに終おわった
• すでに知しっている
• すでに始はじまっている

The form before the grammar point matters. In JLPT questions, the wrong answer choices often use a similar meaning but attach it to the wrong type of word.

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. That makes the nuance easier to remember than a one-word translation.

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

If both translations seem possible, check the tone. Is the sentence casual, formal, written, explanatory, or emotional? The tone often tells you which grammar point is natural.

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. If the meaning or tone changes, explain that difference in your own words.

Is すでに on the JLPT?

For test preparation, study the grammar point in full sentences. JLPT questions often test whether you understand the surrounding context, not just the dictionary meaning.

Practice questions for すでに

Keep your first sentences simple. Once the structure feels natural, add more context so the nuance becomes clear.

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 — because it is the closest comparison used in this article.
• 上で（うえで） — because it helps you contrast timing, sequence, and “when” clauses.
• たとたん — because it helps you contrast timing, sequence, and “when” clauses.
• たて — because it helps you contrast timing, sequence, and “when” clauses.

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:

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• JLPT N3 grammar lessons