This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 adverb #250 most common 15 min read

still

Top 250

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips still in 30 Seconds

Explanation still in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'still' is used in its simplest form to describe things that are happening right now and haven't stopped. Think of it as a way to say 'it continues'. For example, if you see rain outside and it was raining an hour ago, you say, 'It is still raining.' This is a very useful word for beginners because it helps you talk about the present moment in relation to the past. You will mostly use it with the verb 'to be' (am, is, are) or with simple actions like 'eating' or 'working'. The most important thing to learn at this level is where to put the word in a sentence. Usually, it goes after 'is' or 'are'. For example: 'I am still hungry' or 'They are still at school.' You can also use it to ask simple questions to see if something has changed, like 'Are you still here?' This helps you confirm information. At A1, you don't need to worry about the complex rules; just focus on using 'still' to show that an action is ongoing. It's a great word for describing your daily life and the world around you. For instance, if you are reading a book and someone asks what you are doing, you can say, 'I am still reading.' This tells them you haven't finished yet. It's a simple but powerful tool for basic communication. You will also notice 'still' in many children's stories and basic English lessons because it is so common. Practice by looking around your room and finding things that are 'still' there from yesterday. 'My book is still on the desk.' 'The sun is still shining.' This helps you build a strong foundation for using the word correctly as you progress to higher levels of English.

At the A2 level, you start to use 'still' in more varied sentences and with different types of verbs. You are moving beyond just 'is' and 'are'. Now, you can use 'still' with action verbs like 'play', 'work', or 'live'. For example, 'He still plays football on Saturdays.' Notice that 'still' comes before the action verb. This is a key rule at the A2 level. You also begin to use 'still' in negative sentences to show that something you expected to happen has not happened yet. For example, 'I still don't understand this grammar rule.' This is very common when you are learning a new language! You might also use it in the past tense to describe situations that were ongoing at a certain time: 'He was still living in Paris in 2010.' At this level, you should also start to see the difference between 'still' and 'yet'. Remember, 'still' is for things that are continuing, and 'yet' is usually for things you are waiting for at the end of a sentence. For example, 'I am still waiting' vs 'I haven't finished yet.' A2 learners should practice using 'still' to provide more detail in their conversations. Instead of just saying 'It's raining,' saying 'It's still raining' gives more information because it implies the rain has been falling for a while. It shows you are thinking about the timeline of events. You can also use 'still' to express a little bit of surprise. 'Are you still working? It's 10 PM!' This makes your English sound more natural and expressive. Focus on the position of the word: before the main verb, but after 'be' verbs. This will help you avoid the most common mistakes that beginners make.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'still' with more complex verb tenses, such as the present perfect and the past perfect. For example, 'I still haven't seen that movie' or 'They still hadn't arrived when the meeting started.' Notice how 'still' is used to add emphasis to the fact that something hasn't happened. This is a very common way to express frustration or surprise in English. At this level, you should also be comfortable using 'still' as a connector at the beginning of a sentence or clause to mean 'nevertheless'. For example, 'The weather was terrible; still, we decided to go for a hike.' This is a more advanced use that helps you link ideas together and show contrast. You are also beginning to use 'still' with comparative adjectives to mean 'even more'. For instance, 'This phone is expensive, but that one is still more expensive.' This allows you to make more nuanced comparisons. B1 learners should also be aware of the different meanings of 'still'—not just as an adverb of time, but also as an adjective meaning 'quiet' or 'not moving'. For example, 'The air was very still before the storm.' Understanding these different roles is part of becoming an intermediate speaker. You should practice using 'still' in longer stories and explanations to maintain the timeline and show the relationship between different events. For example, 'I was still living in my old apartment when I met her, but I was already planning to move.' This sentence uses both 'still' and 'already' to create a clear picture of a specific time in the past. Mastering these temporal markers is essential for reaching the B2 level.

At the B2 level, your use of 'still' should be fluid and natural across all contexts. You should be able to use it for subtle emphasis and in more formal writing. For example, you might use 'still' to qualify a statement: 'The plan has some flaws; still, it is the best option we have at the moment.' This concessive use is very common in debates and academic discussions. You should also be able to recognize and use 'still' in idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases. For instance, 'still waters run deep' or 'to keep still'. At this level, you are expected to understand the pragmatic implications of using 'still'. If you ask someone, 'Are you still working on that report?' you should know that it might sound like you are being impatient. You can use this knowledge to adjust your tone and be more polite or more direct as needed. B2 learners should also be able to use 'still' in the middle of complex verb phrases without hesitation. For example, 'The problem could still be solved if we act quickly.' Here, 'still' is placed perfectly between the modal 'could' and the passive 'be solved'. This level of syntactic control is a hallmark of an upper-intermediate learner. You should also be able to compare 'still' with more formal alternatives like 'nevertheless' or 'notwithstanding' and choose the one that fits the register of your writing. In your speaking, you can use 'still' to manage the flow of a conversation, using it to return to a previous point or to acknowledge a counter-argument before continuing with your own. 'I hear what you're saying about the cost. Still, we need to consider the long-term benefits.' This shows a high level of conversational competence.

At the C1 level, you use 'still' with a high degree of sophistication, often using it to create specific rhetorical effects. You might use it in literary or formal contexts to emphasize the unchanging nature of a situation over a long period. For example, 'The echoes of the conflict still resonate in the hearts of the people today.' Here, 'still' adds a layer of depth and continuity to the sentence. You are also comfortable using 'still' in very specific grammatical constructions, such as with 'all the' to mean 'even more'. For instance, 'His success was all the more impressive because he had still not fully recovered from his injury.' This is a complex structure that shows a deep understanding of English syntax. At C1, you can also use 'still' to express irony or sarcasm. 'Oh, so you're still pretending that you didn't see the email?' The placement and stress on the word 'still' here convey a lot of meaning beyond the literal definition. You should also be able to use 'still' as an adjective and a noun in more specialized contexts, such as 'the still of the night' or 'a still-life painting'. Your understanding of the word's etymology and its relationship to other Germanic languages might even inform your usage. In professional and academic writing, you use 'still' to navigate complex logical arguments, often using it to maintain a point of view despite acknowledging significant evidence to the contrary. 'While the data suggests a downward trend, the core hypothesis still holds true under these specific conditions.' This use of 'still' as a logical anchor is vital for high-level academic discourse. You are no longer just learning the word; you are using it as a precision tool to shape your message and influence your audience.

At the C2 level, 'still' is a word you use with total mastery, often in ways that are almost invisible because they are so perfectly integrated into your speech and writing. You can use it to create subtle shades of meaning that only a native or near-native speaker would catch. For example, you might use 'still' in a very formal or archaic way for stylistic effect: 'Still did he wait, though all hope had fled.' This inversion is rare but powerful in creative writing. You also understand the most obscure uses of the word, such as 'still' meaning 'always' in certain dialects or older forms of English, though you would likely only use this for literary purposes. Your use of 'still' in logical argumentation is flawless, using it to pivot between complex ideas with ease. You can use it to concede a point so gracefully that it actually strengthens your overall position. 'The opposition's argument is, in many ways, compelling. Still, it fails to account for the primary driver of the current crisis.' At this level, you also have a perfect grasp of the word's prosody—how the stress and intonation of 'still' can change the entire mood of a sentence. You can use it to be dismissive, encouraging, surprised, or insistent, all through subtle changes in how you say the word. You are also fully aware of the word's history and how its meaning has evolved from the Old English 'stille' (meaning fixed or quiet) to its modern multifaceted roles. In essence, at C2, 'still' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument that you play with nuance, precision, and complete control, whether you are writing a legal brief, a philosophical treatise, or a piece of experimental fiction.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

still in 30 Seconds

Used to show that a situation is continuing from the past into the present without any change.
Usually placed before the main verb or after the verb 'to be' in a sentence.
Can express surprise or frustration that something hasn't finished or changed yet.
Can also mean 'nevertheless' when used to connect two contrasting ideas or sentences.

The word 'still' is a fundamental building block of the English language, serving as a temporal marker that indicates the continuation of a state or action from the past into the present moment. At its core, 'still' suggests that something has not changed, despite the passage of time or the occurrence of other events. When we use 'still', we are often expressing a sense of surprise, persistence, or even frustration that a situation remains as it was. For example, if you say 'It is still raining,' you are implying that the rain started some time ago and has not stopped, perhaps contrary to your hope that the weather would clear up. This adverb is essential for describing ongoing processes and maintaining the flow of a narrative where the timeline is a critical element.

Temporal Continuity: The primary function of 'still' is to show that a condition began in the past and continues without interruption into the present.

Even after three hours of intense debate, they still could not reach a consensus on the new budget proposal.

Beyond its temporal use, 'still' can also function as a concessive marker, similar to 'nevertheless' or 'anyway'. In this context, it acknowledges a fact but introduces a contrasting point that remains true regardless. For instance, 'The hike was exhausting; still, the view from the summit was worth every step.' Here, 'still' bridges the gap between the difficulty of the task and the positive outcome, emphasizing that the exhaustion did not diminish the value of the experience. This dual nature—marking both time and logical contrast—makes 'still' one of the most versatile adverbs in a learner's vocabulary. In everyday conversation, 'still' is used to check on the status of things. You might ask a friend, 'Are you still living in London?' to confirm that their situation hasn't changed since you last spoke. It adds a layer of confirmation to our interactions. Furthermore, 'still' can be used for emphasis in negative sentences, often placed before the auxiliary verb to highlight the delay. 'I still haven't received the package' sounds more emphatic and perhaps more annoyed than 'I haven't received the package yet.' This nuance is vital for expressing emotions and attitudes in English.

Expectation vs. Reality: We often use 'still' when we expected something to change or stop, but it persists anyway.

Despite the doctor's advice to rest, he is still going to the gym every single morning.

The old computer is slow, but it still works well enough for basic word processing tasks.

She still remembers the lyrics to the song her grandmother sang to her twenty years ago.

Are you still waiting for the bus, or should I come and pick you up from the station?

Comparative Emphasis: When used with comparative adjectives, 'still' means 'even more'. For example, 'The second half of the movie was still better than the first.'

Understanding 'still' requires recognizing its position in the sentence, as moving it can change the entire meaning or make the sentence sound unnatural to native speakers. It is a word that connects the past to the present, providing a sense of duration and persistence that is vital for clear communication. Whether you are describing a weather pattern, a personal habit, or a logical concession, 'still' is the tool that allows you to express that some things remain constant in a changing world.

Mastering the placement of 'still' is the key to using it naturally in English sentences. As an adverb of time, 'still' typically occupies the 'mid-position'. This means its location depends on the type of verbs present in the sentence. If the sentence has a single main verb (other than 'to be'), 'still' goes directly before that verb. For example, 'He still plays the piano every day.' If the main verb is 'to be' (am, is, are, was, were), 'still' follows it: 'They are still at the office.' When auxiliary verbs like 'have', 'will', or 'can' are used, 'still' is placed after the first auxiliary verb: 'I have still not finished my homework.' This structural consistency helps listeners track the timeline of the events being described.

Mid-Position Rule: Place 'still' before the main verb, but after 'be' verbs and auxiliary verbs.

I still believe that we can find a solution if we work together as a team.

In negative sentences, the position of 'still' can shift to provide extra emphasis. While 'I am still not ready' is standard, saying 'I still am not ready' or 'I still haven't seen it' puts a stronger focus on the fact that the expected change has not occurred. This is particularly common when the speaker is expressing impatience or surprise. For example, 'You still haven't called him?' suggests that the speaker expected the call to have happened much earlier. This subtle shift in syntax allows English speakers to convey a wide range of emotions without changing the vocabulary. Another important use of 'still' is with the present continuous tense to describe actions that are currently in progress and started in the past. 'She is still sleeping' tells us that her sleep began earlier and has not ended. This is often contrasted with 'yet', which is used at the end of negative sentences or questions to talk about something expected. 'Is she still sleeping?' (Is the action continuing?) versus 'Has she woken up yet?' (Has the expected change happened?). Understanding this distinction is crucial for A2 and B1 level learners who are beginning to navigate complex temporal relationships.

Still vs. Yet: 'Still' is used for ongoing actions in affirmative sentences; 'yet' is for expected actions in negatives and questions.

The water is still boiling, so please be careful when you pour it into the teapot.

We still have plenty of time before the train departs, so let's grab a quick coffee.

He was still living with his parents when he landed his first job as a software engineer.

Even though the sun has gone down, it is still quite warm outside tonight.

Concessive Use: When 'still' starts a sentence, it acts as a connector meaning 'despite that'.

Finally, 'still' can be used to emphasize a comparative. If you say 'This car is expensive, but that one is still more expensive,' you are using 'still' to mean 'even'. This usage is common in sales, debates, and any situation where you are ranking items. By mastering these different patterns, you will be able to describe the world with much greater precision and nuance, showing not just what is happening, but how long it has been happening and how it relates to your expectations.

In the real world, 'still' is ubiquitous. You will hear it in almost every context, from casual family dinners to high-stakes corporate meetings. In daily conversation, it often functions as a way to check in on people's lives. Friends will ask, 'Are you still dating that guy?' or 'Do you still work at the bank?' These questions use 'still' to bridge the gap between the last time the speakers met and the present moment. It is a word of continuity and connection. In the workplace, 'still' is frequently used in project management and status updates. A manager might say, 'We are still waiting for the client's approval,' which communicates that the project is on hold due to an external factor that hasn't changed.

Daily Check-ins: Commonly used in questions to verify if a past situation remains true today.

I know you're busy, but do you still have time to help me with my taxes this weekend?

You will also hear 'still' prominently in news reporting and weather forecasts. Reporters might say, 'The fire is still burning out of control,' or 'Rescue teams are still searching for survivors.' In these contexts, 'still' conveys the urgency and the ongoing nature of a crisis. It emphasizes that the danger has not passed. Similarly, in sports commentary, you might hear, 'With only two minutes left, they are still trailing by ten points.' Here, 'still' highlights the difficulty of the situation and the ticking clock. It creates a sense of drama by showing that the desired change (scoring points) has not yet occurred. In music and literature, 'still' is often used to express deep emotions like longing, regret, or enduring love. Countless song lyrics feature the word: 'I still haven't found what I'm looking for' or 'I'm still in love with you.' In these cases, 'still' emphasizes that despite the passage of time, the heartbreak, or the changes in life, a particular feeling remains as strong as ever. It is a poetic way to describe the parts of ourselves that don't change. In literature, an author might describe a 'still' night to mean quiet and motionless, but as an adverb, they might write about a character who 'still' waits by the window, symbolizing hope or obsession.

Emotional Persistence: Used in songs and stories to show that feelings or hopes haven't faded over time.

After all these years, he still visits the park where they first met every single anniversary.

The search for the missing hikers is still ongoing despite the worsening weather conditions.

Do you still think it was a good idea to move to a city where you don't know anyone?

The cake is still warm from the oven, so let it cool down before you try to frost it.

Status Updates: In professional settings, 'still' is used to report that a task is in progress or a condition is unchanged.

Finally, in academic and scientific writing, 'still' is used to describe phenomena that continue to occur or theories that remain relevant. A scientist might write, 'The exact mechanism of this reaction is still poorly understood.' This indicates that despite research, the answer remains elusive. Whether in a lab, a stadium, or a living room, 'still' is the word we use to say that time has passed, but some things remain exactly as they were.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with 'still' involves its placement within a sentence, especially when compared to 'yet' and 'already'. A common mistake is placing 'still' at the end of a sentence, which is the natural position for 'yet'. For example, a learner might say, 'I haven't finished my work still,' which sounds incorrect to a native speaker. The correct form would be 'I still haven't finished my work' or 'I haven't finished my work yet.' Remembering that 'still' usually goes in the middle of the sentence (before the verb) while 'yet' goes at the end is a major step toward fluency.

Incorrect Placement: Avoid putting 'still' at the end of a sentence when you mean 'up to now'.

Incorrect: I am waiting for him still. Correct: I am still waiting for him.

Another common area of confusion is using 'still' in negative sentences. Learners often struggle with whether 'still' should come before or after 'not'. In most cases, 'still' comes before the negative auxiliary. For instance, 'He still doesn't like spinach' is correct, whereas 'He doesn't still like spinach' sounds awkward and changes the meaning (implying he liked it before but maybe doesn't now, though even then it's rarely used this way). If you want to say that a past state continues, 'still' must precede the negative word. This is a subtle rule that even intermediate learners sometimes forget. Confusing 'still' with 'already' is another pitfall. 'Already' is used to say that something happened sooner than expected, while 'still' says something is continuing longer than expected. If you say, 'Is it already raining?' you are surprised that the rain started so soon. If you say, 'Is it still raining?' you are surprised that the rain hasn't stopped. Using the wrong word can completely flip the meaning of your surprise. Learners should practice these in pairs to feel the difference in 'direction'—'already' looks forward to a completed event, while 'still' looks back at an ongoing one.

Still vs. Already: 'Still' = continuing longer than expected. 'Already' = happening sooner than expected.

Incorrect: Are you already working? (When you mean: Are you not finished yet?) Correct: Are you still working?

Incorrect: I still have seen that movie. Correct: I have already seen that movie.

Incorrect: He is still not here yet. Correct: He is still not here. (Adding 'yet' is redundant and confusing).

Incorrect: I still haven't finished. (Wait, this is correct! But learners often say 'I haven't still finished').

Redundancy: Avoid using 'still' and 'yet' in the same clause, as they often perform similar temporal functions and can make the sentence cluttered.

Finally, learners sometimes confuse the adverb 'still' with the adjective 'still' (meaning quiet/motionless). While they are spelled the same, their grammatical roles are different. 'The water is still' (adjective) describes the state of the water, while 'The water is still boiling' (adverb) describes the continuation of the boiling process. Paying attention to whether 'still' is followed by a verb or stands alone as a description will help avoid this confusion. By being mindful of these common errors, you can use 'still' with the confidence and precision of a native speaker.

While 'still' is a very common word, there are several alternatives that can be used depending on the level of formality or the specific nuance you want to convey. One of the closest synonyms for the temporal 'still' is 'even now'. This phrase is often used for emphasis, especially when expressing surprise that something hasn't changed after a long time. For example, 'Even now, after fifty years, they still hold hands when they walk.' Using 'even now' adds a poetic or dramatic touch to the sentence. Another alternative is 'as yet', though this is more formal and usually used in negative sentences, similar to 'yet'.

Even Now: A more emphatic and sometimes more formal way to say 'still', highlighting the surprise of continuity.

The ancient ruins are still standing today. (Alternative: The ancient ruins remain standing even now.)

When 'still' is used as a connector to show contrast (concessive use), it has many formal synonyms such as 'nevertheless', 'nonetheless', and 'even so'. These words are excellent for academic writing or professional emails. For instance, 'The results were disappointing; nevertheless, we learned a lot from the experiment.' This sounds much more professional than using 'still' at the start of the second sentence. However, in casual conversation, 'still' or 'but still' is much more natural. 'It was raining, but still, we went for a walk.' This variety allows you to adjust your tone based on your audience. Another set of related words includes 'continuously' and 'persistently'. While 'still' simply marks that something hasn't stopped, 'continuously' emphasizes that it hasn't stopped for a single second, and 'persistently' suggests that it continues despite efforts to stop it. For example, 'He still asked questions' is neutral, but 'He persistently asked questions' implies he was being a bit annoying or very determined. Choosing the right word helps you paint a clearer picture of the situation.

Nevertheless vs. Still: 'Nevertheless' is formal and used in writing; 'still' is informal and common in speech.

The team lost the game; still, they played with incredible heart and spirit until the very last second.

I have still not heard back from the company regarding my application for the manager position.

Is your sister still planning on moving to Australia next summer, or has she changed her mind?

The price of gas is still rising, which is making it very difficult for families to afford their daily commute.

Remains: The verb 'remains' can often replace 'is still'. For example, 'The problem is still unsolved' becomes 'The problem remains unsolved'.

Understanding these synonyms and alternatives allows you to avoid repetition in your writing and speaking. It gives you the flexibility to express the concept of 'continuity' in a way that perfectly matches the context, whether you are writing a formal report, a heartfelt poem, or just chatting with a friend. By expanding your vocabulary beyond 'still', you demonstrate a deeper mastery of the English language.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"The hypothesis still requires further empirical validation."

Neutral

"I am still waiting for the bus."

Informal

"You still haven't finished that? Wow."

Child friendly

"Is the sun still awake?"

Slang

"He's still out here doing his thing."

Fun Fact

The word 'still' used to be primarily an adjective. Its use as an adverb to mean 'even now' only became common in the 16th century.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /stɪl/

US /stɪl/

The word 'still' is a single syllable, so the stress is naturally on the entire word.

Rhymes With

will bill hill mill pill till fill kill

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'i' too long, making it sound like 'steel'.
Adding an extra vowel sound at the beginning (e.g., 'es-till').
Not pronouncing the 'l' clearly enough at the end.
Using a 'v' sound instead of 'l' in some accents.
Over-emphasizing the 's' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text, though its position can vary.

Writing 4/5

Placement rules (mid-position) can be tricky for learners.

Speaking 3/5

Natural use requires correct intonation and timing.

Listening 2/5

Commonly heard and usually clear in spoken English.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

now always never yet already

Learn Next

nevertheless nonetheless even so continuously persistently

Advanced

notwithstanding albeit enduringly perpetually incessantly

Grammar to Know

Position with 'to be'

He is still happy. (Still follows the 'be' verb)

Position with main verbs

She still runs every morning. (Still precedes the main verb)

Position with auxiliaries

They have still not arrived. (Still follows the first auxiliary)

Still in negative sentences

I still don't know the answer. (Still usually precedes the negative auxiliary)

Still as a conjunction

It was late; still, he kept working. (Used to show contrast between clauses)

Examples by Level

I am still hungry.

I want more food now.

Still comes after 'am'.

It is still raining.

The rain has not stopped.

Still comes after 'is'.

Are you still at home?

You have not left yet?

Used in a question to check status.

They are still sleeping.

They are in bed now.

Used with the present continuous tense.

The dog is still outside.

The dog did not come in.

Describes a continuing location.

Is the shop still open?

Is it not closed?

Checking if a state continues.

I still like apples.

My taste has not changed.

Still comes before the main verb 'like'.

We are still friends.

We are friends now and before.

Shows a continuing relationship.

He still lives with his parents.

He has not moved out.

Still comes before the main verb 'lives'.

I still don't understand the question.

I am confused now too.

Still comes before 'don't' in a negative sentence.

Do you still play the guitar?

Is it still your hobby?

Question about a continuing habit.

She was still working at 9 PM.

She had not finished her work.

Used with the past continuous tense.

The car is old, but it still runs.

It still works.

Shows persistence despite a condition.

We still have three miles to walk.

We are not finished walking.

Still comes before 'have'.

Is it still snowing in London?

Has the snow stopped?

Question about ongoing weather.

I still remember our first meeting.

The memory is in my mind.

Still comes before the main verb 'remember'.

I still haven't finished my report.

The report is not done yet.

Still comes before 'haven't' for emphasis.

The movie was long, but still very good.

Despite the length, it was good.

Used as a concessive adverb.

He is still more talented than his brother.

Even more talented.

Used to emphasize a comparative.

They still hadn't arrived when I left.

They were late.

Used with the past perfect tense.

Are you still considering the job offer?

Have you decided yet?

Question about an ongoing decision process.

The problem still exists despite our efforts.

It has not been solved.

Shows persistence despite action.

I still think we should go to Italy.

My opinion has not changed.

Still comes before the main verb 'think'.

She is still not speaking to him.

She is angry and continues to be.

Still comes after 'is' and before 'not'.

The results were poor; still, we must try again.

Nevertheless, we must try.

Used as a sentence connector for contrast.

The technology is still being developed.

It is not ready yet.

Used with the present continuous passive.

There is still some hope for a peaceful resolution.

Hope remains.

Still comes after 'is'.

He still manages to surprise me every day.

He continues to do surprising things.

Still comes before the main verb 'manages'.

The situation is still very much in flux.

It is changing and not stable.

Still comes after 'is' for a state of being.

I still haven't quite mastered the piano.

I am not an expert yet.

Still before 'haven't' with 'quite' for nuance.

Is it still the case that smoking is banned?

Is that rule still true?

Formal inquiry about a continuing rule.

She still hasn't forgiven him for the mistake.

She is still upset.

Still before 'hasn't' to show duration of emotion.

The echoes of the past still haunt the old house.

The past is still felt there.

Literary use for atmospheric effect.

His argument, while flawed, is still worth considering.

It remains valuable despite flaws.

Used to qualify a complex statement.

The company is still struggling to regain its market share.

The struggle is ongoing.

Used in a professional business context.

I still can't believe he had the audacity to say that.

I am shocked even now.

Still before 'can't' for strong emotional emphasis.

The question of its origin is still a matter of debate.

No one knows for sure yet.

Formal academic phrasing.

She still hasn't managed to find a suitable replacement.

The search continues unsuccessfully.

Emphasis on the failure of an ongoing effort.

The law is still in effect, despite the recent protests.

The law has not changed.

Legal/Political context.

It was a difficult journey; still, they persevered.

Nevertheless, they kept going.

Concessive adverb used for narrative weight.

The philosophical implications are still being unraveled.

We are still trying to understand them.

High-level academic/philosophical usage.

Still did the ancient stars shine over the silent ruins.

The stars continued to shine.

Poetic inversion for stylistic emphasis.

The core principles of the treaty still hold sway today.

They are still influential.

Formal diplomatic/legal language.

Whether he will succeed is still very much an open question.

It is completely uncertain.

Nuanced expression of uncertainty.

His influence on modern art is still palpably felt.

You can clearly feel his influence.

Sophisticated use of adverbial modifiers.

The wound, though healed, still throbbed with a dull ache.

The pain continued slightly.

Literary description of physical sensation.

We must still account for the possibility of human error.

We cannot ignore that possibility.

Used to indicate a logical necessity.

The beauty of the landscape is still unsurpassed in my mind.

Nothing else is as beautiful.

Expressing a persistent subjective value.

Common Collocations

still alive

still waiting

still working

still going

still exists

still valid

still possible

still unknown

still standing

still available

Common Phrases

Better still

— Used to suggest an even better alternative. It introduces a superior option.

We could go to the park, or better still, the beach.

Still more

— Used for emphasis to mean 'even more' of something. It highlights an increase.

There are still more problems to solve than we thought.

Still and all

— An informal way to say 'nevertheless' or 'despite everything'. It summarizes a contrast.

He's a bit loud; still and all, he's a good friend.

Keep still

— To remain motionless or quiet. Often used as a command.

Please keep still while I take your photograph.

Stand still

— To not move from a spot. Can also mean to stop progressing.

The clock seemed to stand still as we waited for the news.

Still life

— A type of painting or drawing of inanimate objects like fruit or flowers.

She is taking a class on how to paint still life.

In the still of the night

— A poetic phrase meaning in the quiet and calm of the nighttime.

In the still of the night, you can hear the owls hooting.

Still waters run deep

— A proverb meaning that quiet people often have deep or complex personalities.

He doesn't say much, but still waters run deep.

Be still, my heart

— A humorous or poetic way to say you are very excited or overwhelmed.

Be still, my heart! Is that a new chocolate cake?

Still birth

— A medical term for the birth of a baby that has died in the womb.

The hospital provides support for families who experience a still birth.

Often Confused With

still vs yet

Yet is used for expected changes at the end of sentences; still is for ongoing states in the middle.

still vs already

Already means sooner than expected; still means longer than expected.

still vs always

Always means every time; still means continuing from before.

Idioms & Expressions

"Still waters run deep"

— A person who is quiet or shy may have a very complex or interesting character.

Don't underestimate Jane; still waters run deep.

informal/proverbial

"To keep a still tongue"

— To remain silent or to keep a secret. It means not speaking when it might be better to stay quiet.

In that meeting, it was wise to keep a still tongue.

literary

"Still in the game"

— To still have a chance of succeeding or winning, despite difficulties.

We lost the first round, but we are still in the game.

informal

"Still going strong"

— To continue to be successful, healthy, or active after a long time.

My grandmother is 90 and she's still going strong.

informal

"Still small voice"

— A person's conscience or an inner sense of what is right.

Listen to that still small voice before you make a decision.

literary/religious

"Still as a mouse"

— Completely quiet and motionless. Often used to describe children trying to be sneaky.

The children sat still as a mouse while they waited for the surprise.

informal

"Still wet behind the ears"

— To be young and inexperienced. It suggests someone is very new to a job or situation.

He's a good kid, but he's still wet behind the ears in this business.

informal

"Still up in the air"

— A situation that has not been decided or settled yet.

Our holiday plans are still up in the air because of the flight prices.

informal

"Still to come"

— Used to say that something will happen in the future, often at the end of a news segment.

We have more weather updates still to come after the break.

neutral

"Still on the fence"

— To be undecided about something, unable to choose between two options.

I'm still on the fence about which car I should buy.

informal

Easily Confused

still vs Steel

Sounds exactly like 'still' in some accents.

Steel is a hard metal; still is an adverb of time or an adjective meaning quiet.

The bridge is made of steel, but it is still under construction.

still vs Till

Rhymes and relates to time.

Till is a preposition meaning 'until'; still is an adverb meaning 'continuing'.

I will wait till 5 PM, but I will still be here if you are late.

still vs Stall

Similar spelling and sound.

A stall is a small stand or a delay; still is an adverb.

Don't stall for time; we are still waiting for your answer.

still vs Steal

Homophone in some dialects.

Steal means to take something without permission; still means continuing.

He didn't steal the car; it is still in the garage.

still vs Style

Vaguely similar sound for some learners.

Style refers to fashion or manner; still refers to time.

Her style is unique, and she still wears vintage clothes.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + be + still + adjective

I am still tired.

Subject + still + verb

He still plays soccer.

Subject + still + haven't + past participle

I still haven't seen it.

Sentence; still, sentence

It was cold; still, we went out.

Subject + be + still + being + past participle

The issue is still being discussed.

Still + auxiliary + subject + verb (Inversion)

Still did he hope for a miracle.

Still + comparative

This is still better than the other one.

Are you still + verb-ing?

Are you still waiting for me?

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

I haven't finished still. → I still haven't finished.
In negative sentences, 'still' should come before the auxiliary verb, not at the end of the sentence.
He is still not yet here. → He is still not here.
Using 'still' and 'yet' together in this way is redundant. Choose one or the other.
I still am hungry. → I am still hungry.
With the verb 'to be', 'still' usually follows the verb unless you are adding very strong emphasis.
Are you already working on that? → Are you still working on that?
If you are asking if someone is not finished, use 'still'. 'Already' implies you are surprised they started so soon.
The water is stilling. → The water is still.
'Still' as an adjective meaning quiet does not usually take the '-ing' form. Use 'is still' instead.

Tips

Placement is Key

Always remember the mid-position rule: before the main verb, after 'be' and auxiliaries. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Expressing Surprise

Use 'still' when you want to show you are surprised that a situation hasn't changed. 'Are you still here?' sounds more surprised than 'Are you here?'

Formal Transitions

In formal writing, use 'nevertheless' instead of 'still' at the beginning of a sentence to sound more academic.

Still vs. Always

Don't confuse 'still' with 'always'. 'Still' implies a starting point in the past, while 'always' implies every single time without exception.

Short 'I' Sound

Keep the 'i' sound short. If you make it long, it sounds like 'steel', which is a metal. Practice with the word 'sit'.

Listen for Emphasis

Native speakers often put extra stress on 'still' when they are frustrated. This can help you understand the speaker's mood.

Polite Questions

Be careful with 'still' in personal questions. 'Are you still working there?' can sometimes sound like you think they should have found a better job.

Still Waters

Learn the idiom 'still waters run deep' to describe quiet but intelligent people. It's a very common and useful expression.

Negative Position

In negative sentences, 'still' usually comes before the negative word (e.g., 'still don't'). This is a specific rule to memorize.

The Statue Rule

Visualize a statue to remember both meanings: it doesn't move (adjective) and it's been there for years (adverb).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Still' as 'Stay-Ill'. If you stay ill, you are 'still' sick. The 'S' and 'T' remind you of 'Stay'.

Visual Association

Imagine a clock where the hands are moving, but a person is standing perfectly in the same spot. That person is 'still' there.

Word Web

Continuity Persistence Duration Quiet Nevertheless Yet Already Always

Challenge

Try to use 'still' in three different sentences today: one about the weather, one about a habit, and one about a negative situation.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English word 'stille', which meant 'fixed, stationary, quiet, or calm'. It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Frisian 'stille' and the Old High German 'stilli'.

Original meaning: The original meaning focused on the lack of motion or sound, which eventually evolved into the concept of a state remaining unchanged over time.

Germanic

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'still' in questions about personal life (marriage, jobs, weight) as it can imply the person is taking too long to change.

Used frequently in polite small talk to catch up on life events, though it requires careful tone to avoid sounding judgmental.

Song: 'I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For' by U2 Song: 'I'm Still Standing' by Elton John Movie: 'Still Alice' (referring to the character's identity remaining despite illness)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weather

It's still raining.
Is it still cold outside?
The sun is still out.
It's still very windy.

Work/Tasks

I'm still working on it.
Are you still in the meeting?
We still need to finish the report.
The project is still ongoing.

Personal Habits

Do you still play tennis?
I still live in the same house.
He still smokes occasionally.
She still visits her parents every week.

Emotions

I still love you.
Are you still angry with me?
He's still upset about the news.
I still feel a bit nervous.

Shopping/Availability

Is that dress still available?
Do you still have that in stock?
The sale is still on.
Are there still seats left?

Conversation Starters

"Are you still living in the same neighborhood as last year?"

"Do you still enjoy going to that Italian restaurant downtown?"

"Is it still your dream to travel around the world one day?"

"Are you still working for that big tech company in the city?"

"Do you still have that old collection of vinyl records?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a hobby you started as a child that you still enjoy today.

Describe a place you visited years ago that is still clear in your memory.

Is there a goal you haven't reached yet but are still working toward?

Think of a friend you have known for a long time. Why are you still friends?

What is a habit you have that you would like to change, but still do?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

In standard English, 'still' usually goes in the mid-position. Putting it at the end (e.g., 'I'm waiting still') is rare and usually poetic or dialect-specific. Use 'yet' for the end position in negative sentences.

'Still' is used for actions that are continuing longer than expected. 'Yet' is used for actions that we expect to happen but haven't happened yet. Example: 'It is still raining' (it hasn't stopped) vs. 'It hasn't stopped raining yet' (we are waiting for it to stop).

In negative sentences, 'still' usually comes before the negative auxiliary verb. For example, 'I still haven't eaten' or 'He still doesn't know.' This adds emphasis to the fact that the situation hasn't changed.

'Still' is neutral and can be used in any context. However, when used as a connector meaning 'nevertheless', it is slightly more informal than 'nevertheless' or 'nonetheless'.

Yes, 'still' can be an adjective meaning quiet, calm, or not moving. For example, 'The lake was very still.' This is a different use from the adverb of time.

'Better still' is a common phrase used to introduce an even better idea or option than the one previously mentioned. It's like saying 'even better'.

When using the verb 'to be' (am, is, are, was, were), 'still' comes after the verb. Example: 'They are still here' or 'I was still tired'.

Usually, you don't use them together in the same clause because they represent opposite ideas about time. However, you can use them in the same sentence to show contrast: 'I have already finished, but he is still working'.

It can be both! As an adverb, it refers to time (continuing) or contrast (nevertheless). As an adjective, it means not moving or quiet. Context tells you which one it is.