again - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
again Word Meanings
- once more
- another time
- back to a previous state
again Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
again Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈɡen/
US
/əˈɡɛn/
again Word Etymology
Again = a- (on, in) + gain (to go), suggesting moving back or repeating. Historical origin: Old English 'onġēan' → Middle English 'againe' → Modern English 'again'. Memory image: Picture a boomerang returning to you, symbolizing something that comes back to you repeatedly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the door handle and pull it open, then push it shut again to feel the rhythm. I pause, adjust my grip, and set my shoulders a little firmer, letting the motion move through me. I turn the wrist, shift my weight, and keep steady as the door yields once more, again. That small loop of action trains my brain to act the same way in real life, back to a familiar state.
Real Context
Again is a versatile adverb used to express repetition or return to a previous state. It can mean three related ideas: doing something one more time, doing it a second time after an interruption, or returning to how things were earlier. In common phrases we hear once more or another time, and in fixed collocations like again and again to emphasize repetition. It often appears before a verb as do it again or try again, or after a clause to indicate I thought I was right but I was wrong again. Learners sometimes confuse again with back or with still, or forget that again can imply renewal rather than physical movement. The memory image of a boomerang returning to you helps.
Usage Reminders
- - Use again to express repetition or return to a previous state.
- - Place it before the verb (do it again) or after a clause (I was wrong again).
- - It can mean not only physical movement but renewal or recovery.
- - Common collocations: again and again, once more, another time.
- - Watch for misunderstandings with back or still in the sense of movement.
Common Misconceptions
- Again always involves moving somewhere physically.
- It can only mean returning to a previous place.
- It cannot start a sentence.
- It can only be used with a present action, not past or future.
- It always means a negative outcome when used with I was wrong again.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, again often marks repetition without implying movement. Learners tend to overemphasize physical return or misplace again in complex clauses.
Learning Tips
- Practice common collocations like again and again and do it again.
- Notice position before the verb and after clauses.
- Distinguish renewal meaning from physical movement.
- Compare with back and still in sample sentences.
- Use a memory image like a boomerang for quick recall.
- Record your own examples to spot wrong placements.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'again' correctly?
A.Let's play outside again tomorrow.
B.He ate the cake again as a gift.
C.She never wants to see him again.
D.They again to the store for more groceries.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'again'?
A.Once
B.Finally
C.Beforehand
D.Suddenly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'again'?
A.Never
B.Always
C.Rarely
D.Occasionally
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario using 'again'?
A.She rehearsed her lines multiple times.
B.He painted the room recently, resulting in a bright new look.
C.They visited the museum and found it fascinating.
D.He went to the gym to exercise.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App