Still: meaning, definitions and examples

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still

 

[ stɪl ]

Adverb / Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

used to indicate that a situation remains the same despite what has been said or done

In spite of what has just been said or done; nevertheless. Up to and including the present or a specified time or event; even now (or then) as formerly.

Synonyms

even now, until now, up to now, yet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
still

Used to describe a situation that continues to exist from the past up to the present.

  • She is still waiting for the bus.
  • They are still living in the same house.
yet

Used mostly in negative sentences and questions to indicate that something expected has not happened so far. It can carry a slight sense of impatience or expectation.

  • I haven't finished my homework yet.
  • Have you called her yet?
even now

Used to emphasize that something is true despite the passage of time or changes in circumstances.

  • Even now, I can't believe she left.
  • Even now, he struggles with that mistake.
until now

Refers to a situation that was true or in effect up to the present moment but may change afterward.

  • Until now, we hadn't considered that option.
  • She has been very quiet until now.
up to now

Describes a situation or fact that has been the case from the past to the present and may not necessarily change.

  • Up to now, there have been no problems.
  • He has been healthy up to now.

Examples of usage

  • I'm still hungry even after eating dinner.
  • She still loves him despite everything.
  • We still have not received the package.
  • He still remembers his childhood friend.
  • The house still stands after the storm.
Context #2 | Adjective

remaining in the same position or condition

Remaining in place or at rest; motionless; stationary. Not used up or expended; not consumed.

Synonyms

calm, motionless, quiet, serene.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
still

Can denote both a lack of movement and a quiet state. Often used to emphasize complete silence or lack of motion.

  • The night was so still, not even the wind was blowing
  • He waited, still and silent, for the right moment
motionless

Describes something completely without movement, often used in a literal sense.

  • The cat remained motionless as it watched the bird
  • He lay motionless on the ground after the fall
quiet

Refers to a state of minimal noise or sound, can be used for both places and situations.

  • The library was very quiet
  • She asked the children to be quiet
calm

Used to describe a peaceful or restful state, often referring to emotions or surroundings.

  • She remained calm during the storm
  • The calm sea soothed his nerves
serene

Used to describe a very peaceful, calm, and undisturbed state, often with a sense of beauty or grace.

  • The garden was serene in the early morning light
  • Her serene expression showed she was at peace

Examples of usage

  • The still waters of the lake reflected the trees perfectly.
  • The still air before the storm was eerie.
  • She sat in the still room, waiting for the phone to ring.

Translations

Translations of the word "still" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ainda

🇮🇳 अभी भी

🇩🇪 immer noch

🇮🇩 masih

🇺🇦 досі

🇵🇱 jeszcze

🇯🇵 まだ

🇫🇷 encore

🇪🇸 todavía

🇹🇷 hala

🇰🇷 여전히

🇸🇦 لا يزال

🇨🇿 stále

🇸🇰 stále

🇨🇳 仍然

🇸🇮 še vedno

🇮🇸 enn

🇰🇿 әлі де

🇬🇪 ჯერ კიდევ

🇦🇿 hələ də

🇲🇽 todavía

Etymology

The word 'still' has Old English origins, with roots in the word 'stille' meaning silent, quiet, or calm. Over time, the meaning of 'still' has evolved to include notions of remaining the same or continuing in a particular state. The adverbial sense of 'still' emerged in Middle English, indicating continuity or persistence. The adjective form of 'still' also developed to describe something that is motionless or quiet. Today, 'still' is a versatile word used in various contexts to convey the idea of continuity, calmness, or remaining unchanged.

See also: instill, stillness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #132, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.