už — meaning in English: already

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už

škola

pondělí

běhat

pátek

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'už' in everyday conversations to indicate that something has occurred sooner than expected. For example, you might hear it in a restaurant when a waiter says, 'Už máte jídlo,' meaning 'You already have your food,' or when friends discuss plans, saying, 'Už jsme se domluvili,' which translates to 'We have already agreed.'

Synonyms & nuances

'Už' is often compared with 'již,' which also means 'already.' While 'už' is more commonly used in spoken Czech, 'již' finds its place in formal writing or literature. When you want to maintain a casual tone in conversation, 'už' is the go-to choice.

Culture

'Už' has a fascinating etymological journey, originating from Old Czech. It's not just a marker of time, but also emphasizes the speaker's surprise or satisfaction that something has happened. This subtlety makes it a crucial part of Czech conversational exchanges, reflecting the importance of timing in social interactions.

FAQ

Q.What does 'už' mean in Czech?

'Už' means 'already' in Czech, and it's used to indicate that something has happened sooner than expected or at an earlier point in time.

Q.Can 'už' be used in questions?

Yes, 'už' can be used in questions to ask if something has happened yet. For example, 'Už jsi jedl?' means 'Have you already eaten?'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'už'?

A common mistake is using 'už' in contexts where 'ještě ne' (not yet) is appropriate. Ensure you're clear about whether something has happened or not when using 'už.'

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Czech Vocabulary