adverb
already
B1
Bereits means 'already' (temporal adverb). Used to indicate something has happened earlier than expected. Usually appears before the verb, past participle, or time expression (e.g., 'Er hat es bereits gemacht'). More formal than 'schon' in some contexts; no inflection. Position can change emphasis.
Examples
Ich habe das Buch bereits gelesen.
I've already read the book.
Obwohl das Ergebnis bereits bekannt war, diskutierten die Experten weiter, weil noch Fragen offen blieben.
Although the result was already known, the experts continued to discuss it because questions remained open.
Details
Mnemonics
picture a clock showing a time that has already passed
sounds like 'bear-eats' — imagine a bear that has already eaten
Notes
'Bereits' is an adverb meaning 'already'. It often appears before the verb or at the start of a clause.