Meanings
already (happening rather early, continuing rather long)
Es ist erst 11 Uhr und schon über 30 Grad im Schatten.It’s only 11 a.m. and already more than 30 degrees (°C) in the shade.
previously, before (at some time in the past; but not: before a certain event)
Ich erinnere mich, dass wir solche Fälle schon hatten.I remember that we had such cases before.
expresses that an action has been completed; already (but more frequent); yet (in questions)
Wir sind spät dran, aber diesen Stapel haben wir immerhin schon bearbeitet.We’re running late, but at least we’ve (already) finished this pile.
modal · particleexpresses a weighing of arguments, contrast between two statements, partial agreement, concession; admittedly; sure(ly); definitely; indeed
Man sollte Kinder nicht bestrafen. — Man sollte Kinder schon bestrafen, nur eben sinnvoll.One shouldn’t punish children. — One should definitely punish children, but wisely.
Used to add positive emphasis to a verb (which is frequently omitted), often when something else is negated. Compare si/sí/sì/sim in the Romance languages and wel in Dutch and Afrikaans.
Ich rauche nicht, aber du schon.I don't smoke, but you do.