Yet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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yet

[jet ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Conjunction

in addition

used to introduce a further point that is connected with what has just been said.

Synonyms

however, nevertheless, still.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
yet

Use when indicating that something is not the case up to now but may be in the future, especially in a temporal or cumulative sense.

  • She hasn't finished her homework yet.
  • The movie hasn't started yet, so we have time to get popcorn.
however

Used for introducing a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.

  • I wanted to go to the park; however, it started raining.
  • He is very talented. However, his attitude often causes problems.
nevertheless

Used to introduce a fact that should be taken into account despite what has been said previously, often implying a concession.

  • The team was tired; nevertheless, they kept playing and won the match.
  • He felt very ill. Nevertheless, he went to work.
still

Often used to indicate that something continues to happen or be the case despite what has been done previously.

  • She is still waiting for the bus.
  • Even after all the difficulties, he still loves his job.

Examples of usage

  • It's late, and yet they are still not here.
  • He is very talented, and yet he remains humble.
Context #2 | Adverb

even

used to emphasize a particular point in time

Synonyms

still, until now.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
yet

Although a repeat, 'yet' can also be used to add a sense of challenge or contradiction to something previously stated.

  • It's a small company, yet it has a big impact.
  • The task was difficult, yet she managed to complete it.
still

Useful for highlighting that something continues to happen or is continuing from a point in the past into the present without changing.

  • He is still asleep.
  • We are still waiting for the bus.
until now

Indicates that a situation or fact has been true or has continued from some point in the past up to the present moment.

  • They have never missed a deadline until now.
  • I hadn't realized the problem until now.

Examples of usage

  • I haven't seen him yet.
  • She is not ready yet.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • 'Yet' often serves as a conjunction in sentences, linking contrasting ideas, like in 'Iโ€™m not ready yet.'
  • It can also function as an adverb to indicate time, as in 'We haven't finished yet,' highlighting the ongoing nature of an action.
  • The word is frequently used in questions to express anticipation or expectation, such as in 'Are you ready yet?'

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that using 'yet' can foster a growth mindset, encouraging perseverance by implying progress is possible.
  • In positive affirmations, incorporating 'yet' reinforces that goals are achievable, a powerful tool in cognitive behavioral therapy.
  • The 'yet' concept can help in dealing with frustration, transforming 'I can't do it' into 'I can't do it yet', paving a path for patient self-improvement.

Pop Culture

  • 'Yet' appears in various song lyrics, emphasizing themes of hope and waiting for better times.
  • In movies and books, characters often express frustration or determination with 'yet', capturing pivotal moments of change or anticipation.
  • The phrase 'the best is yet to come' is a popular saying, often used to signify hope and positivity about the future.

Education

  • Teachers often use the word 'yet' to motivate students, reinforcing the idea of growth and learning over time.
  • In assessments, 'yet' can indicate that a student has not met a standard but is on a journey towards achieving it.
  • In collaborative learning environments, encouraging phrases like 'I donโ€™t understand it yet' promote dialogue and support.

Origin of 'yet'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Yet' has origins in Old English from the word 'giet', which meant 'still' or 'at this time'.
  • In Middle English, 'yet' evolved to mean 'up until this time' and has maintained a similar meaning through the centuries.
  • The word is related to other Germanic languages, such as the German 'jetzt' (now) and Dutch 'nu' (now), showing a family of terms describing timing.

The word 'yet' originated from Middle English 'yit' or 'yete', which comes from Old English 'gฤซet'. It has been used in the English language since the 9th century. Over time, its usage has evolved to encompass various meanings such as 'in addition' and 'even'. Today, 'yet' remains a versatile word in the English vocabulary.


Word Frequency Rank

With position #254, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.