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always

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adverb al·ways \ ˈȯl-wēz , -wəz , -(ˌ)wāz also ˈȯ- \

Definition of always

1 :at all times :invariably
  • always smiling
2 :forever
  • will love you always
3 :at any rate :in any event
  • You can always try again if it doesn't work this time.

See always defined for English-language learners

See always defined for kids

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Examples of always in a Sentence

  1. He always tries, but he doesn't always succeed.

  2. It's always a pleasure to see you.

  3. I can always tell when he's upset.

  4. This area is always filled with tourists.

  5. Things won't always go as planned.

  6. You're always welcome to stay with us.

  7. He has always been a good friend to me.

  8. Life won't always be this easy.

  9. I always thought they'd get married some day, but they never did.

  10. Isn't that what you've always wanted?

Recent Examples of always from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'always.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of always

Middle English alwayes, from alwey

always Synonyms

Synonyms
aye (also ay), consistently, constantly, continually, ever, forever, incessantly, invariably, night and day, perpetually, unfailingly, at every turn, at all events, at any rate, at least, in any case, in any event
Antonyms
ne'er, never
Related Words
commonly, frequently, oft, often, oftentimes (or ofttimes), recurrently, repeatedly; continuously, steadily, uninterruptedly, unremittingly; dependably, generally, habitually, normally, ordinarily, regularly, routinely, typically, usually; inevitably; eternally, everlastingly
Near Antonyms
intermittently, occasionally, periodically, sometimes, sporadically; infrequently, rarely, seldom, unusually; variously

Phrases Related to ALWAYS

Related Phrases

ALWAYS Defined for Kids

always

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adverb al·ways \ ˈȯl-wēz , -wəz , -wāz \

Definition of always for Students

1 :at all times
  • My dad always knows the answer.
2 :throughout all time :forever
  • I'll remember it always.
3 :often, frequently, or repeatedly
  • People always forget my name.

Learn More about always

  1. Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for always Spanish Central: Translation of always Nglish: Translation of always for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of always for Arabic speakers

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Examples: always in a Sentence