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i already know that meaning ?

### “Already Know” or “Already Knew”: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to mastering the nuances of English, even seemingly trivial differences can make a significant impact on the clarity and accuracy of your communication. One such difference lies between using “already know” and “already knew.” Let’s unravel this linguistic quirk by exploring the distinctions, examples, and expert opinions.

#### Understanding ‘Already’

The term “already” is an adverb that indicates an action or state has occurred prior to another point in time. This point of reference can be in the past, present, or future. For example:
– **Past:** “I already ate breakfast.”
– **Present:** “I already know the answer.”
– **Future:** “I will already be in Paris by the time you arrive.”

#### The Difference Between “Already Know” and “Already Knew”

##### “Already Know” (Present Tense)

– **Meaning:** This phrase indicates that you possess information or awareness at the present moment, which you acquired at some point in the past.
– **Usage:** Use it when you want to emphasize that you have current knowledge about a subject.
– **Example:** “I already know the answers to tomorrow’s test.”

##### “Already Knew” (Past Tense)

– **Meaning:** This phrase suggests that you held knowledge at a specific time in the past, but it no longer holds true in the present moment.
– **Usage:** Employ it when you want to refer back to a past instance of knowing something that has since changed.
– **Example:** “I already knew how to swim when I was 5, but I can’t swim now.”

#### Why “Already Knew” Isn’t Commonly Used in Everyday Language

The reason “already knew” doesn’t pop up as often in everyday conversations is that “know” doesn’t lend itself well to perfect tense constructions. Typically, perfect tense (like “have known” or “had known”) is used for actions that can be completed or are ongoing over a period of time. Since “knowing” implies a state rather than an action, it’s not considered an event that can be completed.

**Example:**
– **Incorrect Use:** “I have already known this information.”
– **Correct Use:** “I already knew this information.”

#### When to Use the Perfect Tense with “Know”

If you need to emphasize the action of acquiring knowledge rather than the state, you might use “have known” or “had known”:

– **Present Perfect:** “I have known him for five years.”
– **Past Perfect:** “I had already known her previously when we met at the party.”

#### Practical Advice for Choosing Between “Already Know” and “Already Knew”

– Use “already know” if you want to stress that you have current knowledge.
– Reserve “already knew” for instances where the knowledge was relevant at a specific moment in the past and might no longer hold true in the present.

#### Expert Opinions and Examples

Several English-language forums and websites discuss the nuances of this distinction:

1. **WordReference Forums:**
– Expert opinion: “Knowing is not an event in English. You cannot say *I have known* something because it denotes a state, not an action.”
– Example: “I already know where we’re going.”

2. **Writing Tips:**
– It advises against using “I’ve already known,” emphasizing that “know” is a present state, not an action that can be completed.
– Example: “I already know the answer.”

3. **English Stack Exchange:**
– Here, users often point out the subtle nuance between “already know” and “already knew,” suggest that the difference is minimal and subjective.
– Example: “At the meeting, I already knew the decision had been made.”

#### Additional Examples from Reputable Sources

– **The New Yorker:** “I already know the answer to that: it’s essential for the preservation of old works on paper.”
– **The New York Times:** “When I ask you a question, I already know the answer, said Soufan.”

#### Conclusion

Navigating the subtleties of language can be challenging. However, with practice and attention to the nuances, your English will become clearer and more precise. Remember:
– “Already know” emphasizes current awareness or knowledge.
– “Already knew” refers to a past instance of knowing that may no longer apply.

By understanding these distinctions, you’ll be better equipped to communicate effectively in English.

**Useful Links:**
– [Writing Tips](https://writingtips.org/already-know-or-already-knew)
– [Ludwig Guru](https://ludwig.guru/s/I+already+know+the+answer)
– [English Stack Exchange](https://english.stackexchange.com/questions/64210/difference-between-already-know-and-have-already-known)

Share your thoughts and experiences with using these phrases in the comments below!

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Feel free to reach out if you need further clarification or have more questions about English grammar and usage!