What does "ya" mean? To my understanding, "ya" means "already. However, when I practice writing Spanish to people, I often see them using this word in, in my opinion, odd locations. For example: "Ya

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Josh

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What does "ya" mean? To my understanding, "ya" means "already. However, when I practice writing Spanish to people, I often see them using this word in, in my opinion, odd locations. For example: "Ya veo." "Ya te entendí" - this is said by them sometimes after I answer a question they have asked. To me, the first statement means "I already see," which does not make sense to me. The second means "I already understood you," which, if this is the case, then why did they ask me the question. It seems rude to me. Is this just a cultural misunderstanding? I am new to Spanish, so I don't know many idioms and expressions yet. If anyone could provide me with clarity on this, I would really appreciate it. Thanks! :D

17 de jul. de 2016 22:33

Respuestas · 11

"Ya veo." _Now_ i see, because before it was not clear to me. But sometimes it is used just as an expression, meaning something like do not tell me that again! "Ya te entendí" Although you explained this to me, only _now_ I understand you

18 de julio de 2016

In the examples you mentioned it means "now." There are other occasions when it means "already" like if someone were to ask "¿Ya fuiste?" that would be saying "Did you already go?" It depends on the context. One other use of "ya" you may eventually notice is when it is used by itself. For example, if asked "¿Ya estas listo?" ("Are you already ready?") a person could respond "Ya" to indicate that they are ready.

18 de julio de 2016