still - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
still Word Meanings
- not moving or making a sound
- continuing in a specified state
- even now; still continuing
still Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
still Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/stɪl/
US
/stɪl/
still Word Etymology
The word 'still' decomposes as 'still', meaning 'not moving'. Historically, it comes from Old English ' stille', which relates to the state of calmness or quiet. Imagine a serene lake that is perfectly still, reflecting the peaceful surroundings without a ripple.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my hand on the page, push gently to set the edge, and keep my grip steady as the paper lies flat. I shift my gaze, breathe in slowly, and watch the ink quiet down, still. I adjust my posture, pull my shoulders back, and let the moment carry me forward. Through these small moves, the task grows familiar and a quiet change helps me keep going.
Real Context
Still can describe two broad ideas in English: not moving or making a sound, and continuing in a prior state or situation. It also functions as an adverb meaning even now or despite something, and as an intensifier in phrases like still more. Learners often confuse still with yet, as both can refer to time, but still emphasizes continuity or persistence rather than a new occurrence. It appears in common expressions like stay still, still waiting, and even when used with verbs like be or stay, its placement can shift emphasis across sentences. Remember that still can describe motionlessness or ongoing status, not only quietness.
Usage Reminders
- Still has multiple meanings: motionless, ongoing state, and even now or despite something.
- Place still before the main verb when describing ongoing action (The road is still closed).
- Use stay still for physical quiet or pause; use still waiting for ongoing patience.
- Don’t confuse still with yet in negative statements; yet refers to time up to now with expectation.
- In questions, move still after the subject (Are you still there?) rather than before the verb.
- Combine with be/continue to emphasize persistence (It still matters).
Common Misconceptions
- Still = not moving only; it can also mean continuing in a state.
- It cannot be used to mean 'even now' in all contexts; some uses require yet.
- Placement after auxiliary be or before main verb changes meaning subtly.
- Confusing still with 'yet' in negative sentences is common.
- Wrongly using still to intensify motion (The ball still ran) instead of ongoing state.
Thinking Differences
In English, still covers motionlessness, ongoing states, and figurative emphasis like 'even now.' Learners must notice how word order and collocations shift meaning.
Learning Tips
- Make a clear distinction between motionlessness and ongoing states.
- Remember still with be/continue to emphasize persistence.
- Differentiate still from yet in negative sentences.
- Practice 'stay still' vs 'still waiting' to reinforce physical vs temporal meaning.
- Use questions with 'Are you still...?' to check continuity.
- Combine with adjectives (still silent, still calm) to describe qualitative states.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'still' correctly?
A.She still danced loudly.
B.The party was still exciting.
C.They still ran slowly.
D.He still sang quietly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'still'?
A.Speedy
B.Motionless
C.Noisy
D.Content
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'still'?
A.Active
B.Dynamic
C.Moving
D.Lively
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'still'?
A.He ran quickly to catch the bus.
B.She sang loudly at the concert.
C.The lake water was calm and motionless.
D.The children played energetically in the park.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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