Meaning & use
yet
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Meanings
conjunction
Used to introduce a contrasting idea; but even so.
Grammar: Joins two clauses or phrases, like 'but': 'It was hard, yet we finished.'
Patterns
- yet + clause
- and yet
The task was difficult, yet she completed it on time.
He is rich, yet he lives very simply.
The weather was cold, yet we went for a walk.
adverb
Up until now; so far.
Grammar: Usually used with negative verbs or questions: 'I haven't finished yet.'
Patterns
- not yet
- have yet to do something
I haven't eaten yet.
Have you finished your homework yet?
She has yet to decide where to go.
adverb
In addition; even (used for emphasis).
Grammar: Often used with comparatives: 'yet another', 'yet more'.
Patterns
- yet another
- yet more
He gave yet another excuse for being late.
We need yet more time to finish the project.
Common combinations
- not yet
- The bus hasn't arrived yet.
- yet another
- That's yet another reason to be careful.
- as yet
- As yet, no decision has been made.
- and yet
- It's strange, and yet it's true.
Synonyms and how they differ
- but
- More common and neutral; 'yet' is slightly more formal and emphatic.
- still
- As an adverb, 'still' means 'continuing up to now'; 'yet' often implies expectation.
- nevertheless
- More formal than 'yet' as a conjunction.
Commonly confused: yet or already?
yet vs already
Used in positive sentences about something happening sooner than expected; 'yet' is used in negatives and questions.
Practice
She studied hard, ______ she didn't pass the exam.
Choose one answer.
'Yet' is the conjunction that introduces a contrast, like 'but'. 'Already' and 'still' are adverbs of time, and 'ever' does not fit here.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “yet”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.