ya (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "ya" is an adverb.

Phonetic Transcription

/ja/

Translation Options into English

"Ya" can be translated as: - already - now - yet - anymore (in a negation) - at last (in a specific context)

Meaning and Usage

In the Spanish language, "ya" is a multifunctional adverb that indicates something has happened or been completed. It can imply urgency or denote a change of state. The word is used quite frequently in both oral and written contexts but tends to be more common in everyday spoken language.

Example Sentences

1. Ya he terminado mi tarea.

2. I have already finished my homework.

3. Ya es hora de irnos.

4. It is already time for us to leave.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Ya" is often found in idiomatic expressions, enhancing its versatility in the language. Here are some examples of idiomatic expressions with "ya":

1. Ya está.

2. That's it. / It's done.

3. Ya veremos.

4. We'll see. / Let's wait and see.

5. Ya no hay vuelta atrás.

6. There is no turning back now.

7. Ya me entendiste.

8. You already understood me.

9. Ya lo dijiste.

10. You already said it.

11. Ya basta.

12. Enough already.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. Ya está, no hay nada que hacer.

2. That's it, there is nothing to be done.

3. Ya veremos qué pasa mañana.

4. We'll see what happens tomorrow.

Etymology

The word "ya" originates from Latin, specifically from the word "iam," which means 'now' or 'already.' This shows the continuity of meaning through the evolution of the language.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Ya: ahora (now), en este momento (at this moment), a estas alturas (at this point).

Antonyms

• Ya: nunca (never), jamás (never ever), todavía no (not yet).

This comprehensive overview of the word "ya" captures its significance, usage, and the various contexts in which it operates in the Spanish language.