always

adverb

al·​ways ˈȯl-wēz 

-wəz,

-(ˌ)wāz 

 also  ˈȯ-

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.

Synonyms

• aye
• ay
• consistently
• constantly
• continually
• ever
• forever
• incessantly
• invariably
• night and day
• perpetually
• unfailingly

Examples of always in a Sentence

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

It's always a pleasure to see you.

I can always tell when he's upset.

This area is always filled with tourists.

Things won't always go as planned.

You're always welcome to stay with us.

He has always been a good friend to me.

Life won't always be this easy.

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

Isn't that what you've always wanted?

Recent Examples on the Web

Monday Night Football at Lambeau Field is always a spectacle, and this game has plenty of intrigue. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

It’s always been my interest and my fascination and all of my writing, my music, my art, everything has been a side effect of that journey. —Charles Moss, SPIN, 23 Dec. 2024

The massive Intel semiconductor plant coming to Licking County is always a hot topic. —Andrew King, Axios, 23 Dec. 2024

In an age where we are constantly urged to do more and be always connected, deliberately seeking out silence can feel like an act of rebellion. —Richard E. Cytowic, TIME, 23 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English alwayes, from alwey

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing always

• always-on
• as always
• the grass is always greener on the other side (of the fence)

Kids Definition

always

adverb

al·​ways ˈȯl-wēz  -wəz 

-ˌwāz

1

: at all times : invariably

always ready for a party

2

: throughout all time : forever

I'll remember you always