πάλιν

From the study of John 16:28

Range of meaning

The root meaning is 'back', as in going back to where one started. From that come the senses 'again' (a second time), 'furthermore', and 'in turn' or 'on the other hand' (BDAG s.v. πάλιν).

Against the English

KJV, WEB and NASB's 'again' now sounds to most readers like 'a second time', as if Jesus had left the world before. BSB's 'In turn' and the sense 'back' convey the reversal better.

How it drifted

In older English 'again' could still mean 'back' or 'in return' (compare 'come again' meaning 'come back'). Modern English has mostly lost that sense.

Used elsewhere in the period

BDAG's first sense is 'back' (for example Mark 11:3, 'he will send it back'; Galatians 4:9, 'turn back'). The sense 'in turn' is common in Greek prose.

From the study of John 10:19

Range of meaning

Again, once more; back. It can also mark a further item in a series.

Against the English

All versions render 'again.' BSB and YLT put it first for emphasis, as the Greek nearly does.

Used elsewhere in the period

A frequent word in John. It deliberately recalls earlier scenes, e.g. 8:12 and 8:21 ('again he spoke').

From the study of John 11:7

Range of meaning

'Again', 'once more', or 'back', of a repeated action or a return to a former place or state.

Against the English

KJV, WEB, YLT and others say 'again'. BSB and NIV say 'back'. Both are correct. 'Back' reads more naturally, while 'again' keeps the verbal echo with verse 8, where the disciples repeat the word.

Used elsewhere in the period

It is very frequent in John, often used to mark Jesus' movements back and forth (4:3, 4:46, 10:40 'he went away again across the Jordan').