Already vs All Ready: Find out the Difference Between These Words

If you’re looking for all the details about already vs all ready, then you’re in the right place. We’re going to give you the rundown on the key differences between these two words. Also, find out whether or not allready is really a word (hint: it’s not!).

Already vs All Ready: Listening/pronunciation tip

“All ready” is usually spoken with a slower speed and longer expression. “Already” has a soft “l” and flows faster.

all ready: Definition, Usage, and Examples

A phrase that means completely prepared for something. Generally speaking, “all ready” is about present or future situations.

Examples: 

• As soon as I put my jacket on, I’ll be all ready to go.
• All ready? Get in the car then.
• If you’re all ready to go, then let’s get out of here! The movie won’t wait for us.
• Are you all ready to go? Did you pack everything on the list?

What about allready? 

Please note that “allready” is not a word! The correct use is all ready.

Not correct: 

• I’ve all ready done my homework.
• She’s allready done her homework.

already: Definition, Usages, and Examples

An adverb that describes something that happened before a certain point in time. Already is about a task or tasks or something that is completed or in the past.

Examples: 

• What? We’re not going? I already have my shoes on.
• I’ve already taken out the trash. You don’t have to.
• Have you already brushed your teeth and put on your shoes? Is that why you’re watching TV right now?
• When they pulled up the fishing net, the turtle was already dead.

Not correct:

• Are you already to go?

All Ready vs Already Practice

Try these practice exercises:

1. Why are you watching TV? Have you _____ done your homework?
2. Tom is _____ for you now. Please go in.
3. Please make sure the kids are _____ for 8:30 when I pick them up.
4. If you’ve _____ signed up for the online system, please ignore this email.
5. The flowers are _____ blooming. It’s one month early though.
6. Oh, no thanks. I’ve _____ eaten lunch.

All Ready or Already Answers

1. already
2. all ready
3. all ready
4. already
5. already
6. already

Speaking Practice

After checking your fill-in-the-blank answers, try speaking each sentence to a friend. Or, record yourself speaking each sentence on your smartphone. Then listen and see if your pronunciation is clear and easy to understand.

Want to Find Out More?

You can find hundreds of confusing English words and word pairs in this book: Most Confusing Words in English Explained. Pick up a copy and ace your next TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS exam! Find out everything you need to know about it right here:

More Confusing Words in English

Check out some more confusing English words:

effect and affect

adverse and averse

they’re, their, and there

accept and except

little, a little, and small 

advice and advise 

Already vs All Ready: Join the Conversation

Do you have any tips or tricks for remembering the difference between these two words? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Last update on 2022-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API