Introduction: Are You Using “Again” Wrong in English?
If you’re learning English and often say things like:
- “I met her yesterday again,”
- “Can you explain again what is this?”
Then this blog post is for you!
Many ESL learners use the word “again” incorrectly. Even advanced students make these mistakes in grammar, word order, and context. Let’s fix the most common errors so you can speak English more naturally and confidently.
What Does “Again” Mean in English?
The word “again” means one more time or repeatedly.
It’s used when something happens for a second time (or more).
✅ Correct examples:
- Can you say that again?
- I watched the movie again because I loved it.
- He forgot his keys again!
❌ Mistake #1: Wrong Word Order With “Again”
Incorrect: I met her yesterday again.
Correct: I met her again yesterday.
Explanation:
In English grammar, time expressions like “yesterday,” “last night,” or “last week” usually come after the word “again.” Placing them before sounds unnatural.
🛠️ More examples:
- ❌ He called me last night again.
- ✅ He called me again last night.
📌 Grammar rule: Place “again” before the time expression for clear and fluent English.
❌ Mistake #2: Using “Again” When It’s Not Repeated
Incorrect: Can you explain again what is this?
Correct:
- Can you explain what this is again?
- Or: Can you explain that again?
Grammar Tip for ESL Learners:
Only use “again” if something has already happened or been said. If it’s your first time asking, don’t use “again.” Use phrases like:
✅ “Can you explain it to me?”
✅ “Can you tell me more about it?”
❌ Mistake #3: Using “Again” Instead of “Also” or “Too”
Incorrect: I went to Kyoto again last year. (But it was your first time!)
Correct: I went to Kyoto last year too / also.
👉 Explanation:
Use “also” or “too” when you are adding new information — not repeating something.
🔄 Natural English Expressions with “Again”
Boost your fluency with these common English phrases:
- Here we go again – Used when something annoying keeps happening
Example: My phone died again. Here we go again! - Once again – Formal or dramatic way to say “again”
Example: Once again, she forgot her homework. - On again, off again – A relationship or situation that keeps starting and stopping
Example: They have an on-again, off-again romance.
🧠 Grammar Practice: Can You Fix These Sentences?
Try correcting these common ESL mistakes with “again”:
- I saw him two days ago again.
- Can you do again that?
- She bought the same dress again, even she already had one.
- I’m tired again of doing this.
💬 Want feedback? Our teachers at MK’s English are happy to help!
✅ Conclusion: Master the Word “Again” in English
The word “again” may seem simple, but using it the wrong way can confuse your listeners. By fixing your word order, grammar, and meaning, you’ll speak more clearly and sound more like a native speaker.
Keep practicing and reviewing! Want more tips like this? Check out our other blog posts:
➡️ Affect vs. Effect – What’s the Difference?
➡️ Top 5 Present Simple Tense Mistakes (And How to Fix Them!)
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🎓 Join one of our online English lessons at MK’s English!
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