SCHON Meaning and
Definition
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Schon is an adverb in the German language that translates to "already" or "yet" in English. It is derived from the Old High German word "scōn" and shares a linguistic root with the English word "soon." Schon is used to indicate that an action or event has already taken place or has been completed before a specific moment in time. It implies a sense of time passed or time prior to the current moment.
Additionally, schon can be used to express surprise when an action or event occurs earlier than expected. It can also convey a sense of familiarity, as if something has been experienced before.
In colloquial German, schon is often used as an intensifier, similar to the English word "so." It can enhance the meaning of an adjective or adverb, adding emphasis or expressing a high degree of a quality or characteristic.
Furthermore, schon can function as a discourse particle, serving to soften requests or assertions, or to make a statement less blunt or direct. In this sense, it adds a polite or friendly tone to the conversation.
Overall, schon is a versatile adverb in German, carrying meanings of time, surprise, familiarity, intensity, and politeness, depending on its context and usage.
Etymology of SCHON
The word "schon" originated from the Middle High German term "schoene", which itself came from the Old High German word "scōni". Its further roots trace back to the Gothic word "skauns", meaning "beautiful" or "handsome". The Gothic term is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skauniz", which carries the same meaning.
Similar spelling words for SCHON
- schmo,
- schnee,
- scene,
- schoen,
- schwan,
- schoon,
- scianna,
- scan,
- Schanno,
- scone,
- Schane,
- scion.
