Ago

Definition

Ago is an adverb that indicates a certain amount of time in the past from the present moment. It is often used with a time expression to specify when an event or action took place, such as "two years ago."

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈɡoʊ/
• Respelling: uh-GOH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈɡəʊ/
• Respelling: uh-GOH

Etymology

The word "ago" originates from the Old English "āgān," meaning "gone by" or "passed." The term is derived from "gān" (to go) and "a-" (meaning away or off), signifying time that has passed. It has been in use since the early Middle Ages to express elapsed time.

Derivatives

• None

Synonyms

• Before
• Previously
• Earlier

Antonyms

• Later
• After
• Upcoming

Usage

The term "ago" is used with time expressions to specify how long before the present a particular event occurred. For example, "She visited the city two years ago," or "The incident happened a few days ago."

Related Terms

• Earlier: Refers to a point in time before the present.
• Past: Refers to a previous time or event.
• Since: Used to denote time from a specific point until now.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• At a specified time in the past: Refers to a particular moment that has passed relative to the present.
  • Example: "He moved to the city three years ago."