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ya means already — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: September 21, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

ya

adverb • /[YAH]/

already

Example:

Ya hice la reserva del hotel.

I already made the hotel reservation.

🧠 What does ya mean?

The Spanish word 'ya' is a small but mighty adverb with a range of meanings, all centered around the idea of 'already,' 'now,' or 'soon.' It can indicate that something has happened, is happening, or is about to happen. Its exact meaning depends heavily on context, but mastering 'ya' is crucial for natural-sounding Spanish.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¡Ya llegamos!
    We've arrived already!
  • Ya son las tres.
    It's already 3 o'clock.
  • Ya voy.
    I'm coming now.
  • Ya casi termino.
    I'm almost finished.
  • Ya verás.
    You'll see.
  • Ya no quiero más.
    I don't want any more.
  • ¿Ya comiste?
    Have you eaten yet/already?

💡 Did You Know?

While 'ya' itself doesn't change, adding 'no' before it ('ya no') changes the meaning to 'no longer' or 'not anymore.'

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "ya"

Synonyms: ahora, en seguida, de una vez
Opposites: todavía no, aún no

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'already' in Spanish?
The most common translation of 'already' is 'ya.'
How do you pronounce 'ya' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'yah,' with a clear 'y' sound as in 'yes' and a short 'a' sound as in 'father.'
How do you use 'ya' in a sentence?
'Ya' usually goes before the verb, but can also appear at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis. Its position can subtly change the meaning.
What is the English translation of 'ya'?
While 'already' is the most common translation, 'ya' can also mean 'now,' 'soon,' 'right away,' 'anymore,' or even function as an exclamation like 'enough!' or 'come on!'
Does 'ya' change for gender or number?
No, 'ya' is an adverb and remains the same regardless of gender or number.
Is 'ya' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'ya' is extremely common and used in a wide variety of situations. You'll hear it constantly in conversations.
Does 'ya' have slang or double meanings?
While not strictly slang, 'ya' can have different nuances depending on context and intonation. Using it expressively can convey impatience, resignation, or excitement.
Is 'ya' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning and usage of 'ya' are consistent across Spanish-speaking regions, though there might be subtle regional variations in intonation or frequency.

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