Já and ainda não in past reference
Words like já and ainda não often help clarify whether a completed action has already happened or still has not happened.
Examples
PortugueseTranslation
Já terminei o relatório.
I have already finished the report.
Ainda não falei com ela.
I still have not spoken with her.
Eles já chegaram ao hotel.
They have already arrived at the hotel.
Pattern
past form + aspect adverb
How it works
Words like já and ainda não often help clarify whether a completed action has already happened or still has not happened. This pattern typically appears as past form + aspect adverb and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- These small words often shape the timeline of the sentence more than you expect.
- They pair naturally with completed actions and everyday updates.
Why it matters
Describe finished actions and what is happening around now.
Use in context
These adverbs are worth learning with the tense because they appear constantly in real Portuguese conversation.