Spanish Phrase
Ya terminé mi tarea.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to 'I already finished my homework.' It's a common way to express that a task, specifically homework, has been completed. The 'ya' emphasizes that the action is already done, often implying a sense of relief or readiness for something else.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to inform someone, like a parent, teacher, or friend, that you have completed your homework. It can also be used to signal that you are now free to do something else, or to respond to a question about your progress on a task.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Yaterminémitarea
Ya
'Ya' is an adverb that means 'already,' 'now,' or 'by now.' In this context, it emphasizes that the action of finishing is complete and often implies a sense of immediacy or completion.
Terminé (Terminar)
'Terminé' is the first-person singular preterite form of the verb 'terminar' (to finish). The preterite tense is used for actions completed in the past at a specific point in time.
Mi
'Mi' is a possessive adjective meaning 'my.' It agrees in number with the noun it modifies, but not in gender.
Tarea
'Tarea' is a feminine noun meaning 'homework' or 'task.' It's a common word used in educational and professional contexts.
🗨In Conversation
¿Ya hiciste tu tarea?
Did you do your homework yet?
Sí, ya terminé mi tarea.
Yes, I already finished my homework.
✕Common Mistakes
Yo terminé mi tarea.
While 'Yo' is grammatically correct, it's often omitted in Spanish when the subject is clear from the verb conjugation. Including 'Yo' can sound redundant or add unnecessary emphasis.
Terminé mi tarea ya.
Although understandable, placing 'ya' at the end is less common and can sound slightly awkward. 'Ya' typically precedes the verb it modifies.
↔Alternatives
He terminado mi tarea.
I have finished my homework.
Mi tarea está hecha.
My homework is done.
Ya acabé mi tarea.
I already finished my homework (using 'acabar').
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, there's a strong emphasis on family and social interaction. Finishing homework or chores promptly can be seen as a way to free up time for these activities. Saying 'Ya terminé mi tarea' might often be followed by asking '¿Puedo salir?' (Can I go out?) or '¿Qué hacemos ahora?' (What do we do now?).