again

adverb

1 if something happens again, or someone does something again, it happens or they do it one more time: Can you say that again? I didn't hear you. | I'll never go there again. | I'm sorry, Mr Khan's line is busy. Can you try again later? | once again (=again, usually for at least the third time): Once again the Allies marched in and pushed back the enemy troops. | yet again (=again, after happening many times before): Can you believe it! He told that story about his teeth yet again.

2 back to the same state or situation that you were in before: His parents stayed and nursed him back to health again. | It's great to have you home again.

3 all over again if you do something all over again, you repeat it from the beginning: There's no tape in the machine. We'll have to start the interview all over again.

4 as much/as many/the same again the same number or amount added to what there already is: What a fantastic lunch. I could eat the same again. | I thought my job was good until I heard Bernard earns twice as much again.

5 used when giving a fact or opinion that either explains something you have just said, of is very different from it: And again, while the accident was not your fault, the damage must be paid for somehow. | then/there again spoken: Carol's always had nice clothes but then again she earns a lot.

6 again and again/time and (time) again/over and over again very often: I've told you again and again, Don't play soccer near the windows.

7 spoken used when you want someone to repeat information that they have already given you: What did you say your name was again?

-see also: now and again now 1 (6)