gjithnjë

Gjithnjë is an Albanian adverb meaning always, at all times, or, in some contexts, still or continuously. It expresses habitual action, a lasting quality, or a state that persists over time. The term is standard in modern Albanian and can modify verbs, adjectives, or clauses to emphasize persistence or repetition.

Common usages include stating regular actions or enduring characteristics. For example, Unë gjithnjë zgjohem herët (I always wake up early) and Ai është gjithnjë i sjellshëm (He is always polite). Gjithnjë can be placed before the verb for emphasis, or after the subject, depending on the sentence structure. In addition to the single-word form, Albanian also uses the synonymous form gjithmonë in many dialects and registers.

Etymology and variation: gjithnjë derives from the root gjith- meaning all or entire, combined with an adverbial suffix that marks continuous or habitual action. Gjithmonë is a closely related form with essentially the same meaning and is preferred in some dialects or styles. In everyday text, listeners and readers may encounter both forms as interchangeable, though regional preferences differ. Another related expression to convey the same idea is gjithe kohën, meaning “all the time.”

See also: gjithmonë, gjytë kohën.