Re: the use of ever in reported speech

[louhevly]

Re: the use of ever in reported speech

Quote:
Originally Posted by louhevly View Post
Use "ever". "already" means something different.

Lou
So, what's the difference ? I've always learnt that "ever" was only possible in questions.
Again, thank you. Jean-Luc

You can also use it in conditionals:

If you ever come to Manresa, call me.

"already" is usually used to talk about something that has happened before someone expects:

Why aren't you doing your homework?
I've already done it.

Marta had her baby last night.
Already?? (the baby wasn't due until next month)

Lou

 

[RonBee]

Re: the use of ever in reported speech

I don't know what the question is.
:-?

In any case, you can use "ever" in ordinary speech. You might use it for emphasis. Examples:

You never ever do it right.
It's not ever been done that way before.
​

In poetry "ever and ever" or "ever and always" is a very long time.

Of course, you can use it in questions. Examples:

When did you ever do that?
Does she ever stop talking?
​