Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Still" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "still", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
いっそう
いっそう (issou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
依然
いぜん (izen)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "still" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between いっそう and 依然.
In Japanese, いっそう (いっそう (issou)) is typically associated with "still more; even more; much more" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to emphasize an increase in degree, intensity, or extent. Similar to 'furthermore' or 'all the more'. 「もっと」「さらに」という意味で、程度が高まることを強調します。.
On the other hand, 依然 (いぜん (izen)) maps to "still, as before, as ever" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that a situation or state continues unchanged despite expectations or the passage of time. Often used in formal contexts or writing, frequently with 「として」.. A literal translation of "still" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "いっそう"
練習すればするほど、いっそう上達するだろう。
The more you practice, the more you will improve.
Bilingual Context for "依然"
状況は依然として厳しい。
The situation remains severe as ever.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "練習すればするほど、 ＿＿＿ 上達するだろう。" (Meaning: "The more you practice, the more you will improve.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "いっそう" fits here because it means "still more; even more; much more" in the context of: "The more you practice, the more you will improve.". "依然" represents "still, as before, as ever".