Usage of もう
The adverb もう is very common in Japanese and primarily means "already" or "anymore." It is used to express that something has happened earlier than expected or that a situation has changed compared to before.
Common contexts
- To indicate that an action has been completed earlier than expected: もう食べました (already ate).
- To express that a certain time or condition has been reached: もう遅い (it's already late).
- To request repetition or additional action politely: もう一度 (one more time).
Collocations and patterns
- もう + verb (past tense): to say something has already happened.
- もう + adjective: to emphasize a state has been reached (e.g., もう疲れた - already tired).
- もう + 一度/一回: to ask for repetition politely.
Nuances and tips
- もう often implies a sense of impatience or urgency depending on tone and context.
- It can be used in both formal and informal speech.
- Do not confuse もう with まだ (mada), which means "not yet" or "still." For example, もう食べた (already ate) vs まだ食べていない (haven't eaten yet).
Understanding もう helps learners express timing and completion clearly in everyday conversation.