Schon vs. Bereits — "Already" in German: Casual vs. Formal
Quick Rule
Talking to a friend or in casual context? → schon. Writing a formal email, report, or news article? → bereits.
schon vs. bereits — The Rules
schon
"Schon" is the everyday, casual way to say "already". Used in conversation, informal writing, and all registers. It can also express surprise, impatience, or reassurance.
bereits
"Bereits" is the formal, written equivalent of "already". Used in business communication, academic writing, news, and formal speech. It has no additional emotional nuance.
Examples — Side by Side
Ich habe schon gegessen.
I've already eaten. (casual)
Das Meeting hat bereits begonnen.
The meeting has already begun. (formal)
Bist du schon fertig?
Are you done already?
Die Lieferung ist bereits unterwegs.
The delivery is already on its way.
Er ist schon 30 Jahre alt!
He's already 30! (surprise)
Er ist bereits seit 10 Jahren bei der Firma.
He has already been with the company for 10 years.
Das weiß ich schon.
I already know that. (casual/slightly impatient)
Wie bereits erwähnt, ...
As already mentioned, ... (formal)
Common Mistakes
Using "bereits" in casual conversation: "Hast du bereits gegessen?"
Hast du schon gegessen?
"Bereits" sounds stiff in casual speech. Use "schon" with friends.
Thinking they have different meanings — they don't.
Both mean exactly "already". The difference is register (formal vs. casual).
You can always replace one with the other — it just changes the tone.
Using "schon" in a formal report.
Use "bereits" in formal/business writing.
In formal contexts, "bereits" sounds more professional.
Memory Trick
"bereits" = business (both start with B = formal). "schon" = spoken (casual).
Quick Quiz
1. Email to your boss: "Die Aufgabe ist ___ erledigt."
2. Text to your friend: "Ich bin ___ da!"
3. Schon and bereits are:
