Grammar Point

もう

already, yet, by now, now, (not) any more, (not) any longer


もう + Affirmative Verb

Used with an affirmative verb to indicate that a state or action has already been completed or has already begun. It suggests a change from a previous state.

もう + Past Tense Verb

Indicates that an action has been completed.


I already ate lunch.

The train has already left.

もう + Present Tense Verb/Noun

Indicates that a certain point in time or a state has been reached.


It is already nine o'clock.

Have you eaten yet?

Note

When used in questions, it often translates to 'yet'. When used with a past tense verb, it emphasizes that the action is finished.

もう + Negative Verb

Used with a negative verb to indicate that an action or state that used to exist no longer does. It expresses the idea of 'not anymore' or 'no longer'.

Expresses that a situation has changed and an action no longer occurs.


I don't drink milk anymore.

I can't walk any further.

Note

This construction emphasizes that a previous habit or condition has ceased.



Radicals of radicals