Guides 指南

再 vs 又

Both mean "again". One looks ahead, the other looks back.

Both can be translated as "again", but the time direction differs.

再: it has not happened yet

Use 再 for a repeat you want, plan or request in the future.

遍biàn。

Please say it once more.

。

Come again tomorrow.

又: it already happened

Use 又 for a repeat that has already taken place (or a habit that keeps recurring).

,又yòu。

He came yesterday and came again today.

又yòu迟chí!

You're late again!

Rule of thumb

Future or wish: 再. Past or already-true: 又.