done

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "done" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an adjective, adverb, or verb. For example: "I'm done with this report and I can turn it in now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

TV & Radio

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well it were done quickly.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This she has done under the most dangerous circumstances.

The Guardian

"I will always treasure my opportunity to have done that with you, and I will always regret the circumstances that brought that work with you to an end".

The New York Times

But that is easier said than done.

The New York Times

So what can be done?

The New York Times

I've never done anything like this before and, in hindsight, I have realised it was a silly thing to do".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We will want to determine that those responsible for operating this ride have done what the law requires.

The Guardian

Much remains to be done.

The New York Times

"Something needs to be done".

The New York Times

Job done.

The New York Times

We are halfway through the mandate argument; the SG is done.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "done" to clearly indicate completion or finality in your writing. Ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning, whether it's to signify a task finished, a state of readiness, or an end to something.

Common error

Avoid using "done" in place of "did" as the simple past tense of "do". While grammatically incorrect, it's a common spoken error to replace "I did it" with "I done it."

Linguistic Context

The word "done" functions primarily as an adjective, indicating a state of completion or readiness. It is also used as the past participle of the verb "do", forming perfect tenses. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Lifestyle

20%

TV & Radio

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "done" is a versatile term primarily functioning as an adjective to express completion, readiness, or finality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage across various contexts. It is frequently encountered in News & Media, Lifestyle, and TV & Radio. While it can fit into formal settings, it's also common in everyday conversations, making its register generally neutral. Related phrases include "completed", "finished", and "over", each with slightly different nuances. When writing, ensure you're using "done" to clearly indicate completion or finality, and avoid misusing it as a substitute for "did". Overall, "done" is a common and useful word in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finished

Implies the end of an activity or task.

completed

Focuses on the action of finishing something.

over

Indicates the cessation of an event or period.

through

Suggests having passed a certain point or stage.

concluded

Formally indicates the end of a process or discussion.

finalized

Implies that the last steps have been taken to complete something.

accomplished

Highlights the successful completion of something significant.

achieved

Focuses on the attainment of a desired outcome.

executed

Emphasizes the performance or carrying out of a plan or task.

wrapped up

Suggests bringing something to a satisfactory conclusion.

FAQs

How is the word "done" used in a sentence?

The word "done" can be used as an adjective to indicate something is completed (e.g., "The project is done"), as a verb form (e.g., "I have done my homework"), or to indicate a state of readiness (e.g., "Is the food done?").

What can I say instead of "I'm done"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm finished", "I'm through", or "I'm all set" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I have done" or "I have did"?

"I have "done"" is the correct form. "Done" is the past participle of "do" and is used with auxiliary verbs like "have" to form the perfect tenses. "Did" is the simple past tense.

What's the difference between "done" and "finished"?

While both "done" and "finished" can indicate completion, "finished" often implies a more formal or conclusive end. "Done" can also indicate a state of being cooked or ready, which "finished" does not.