Grammar:

Yet and still can have a similar meaning, but this depends on the verb tense used and if it is affirmative, negative or interrogative.

 

YET is an adverb that we usually use at the end of a sentence. It normally means something that is expected to happen or something that is still in progress: When we use the interrogative form YET generally means the same as already: Have you finished the washing up yet? Have you figured out the answer yet?   When we use the negative form YET has a very similar meaning to still (in progress) or hasn´t begun: I haven´t done the housework yet.  

 

STILL is an adverb that generally means ¨in progress¨: We use STILL in the affirmative form in the present continuous: I am still listening to the radio, don´t turn it off!   Also, we use STILL in the negative form with the present perfect, this way it means YET: I still haven´t met you parents and you still haven´t come to the UK to meet mine.

 

Fixed expressions with YET:

Yet still = even so, however

As yet = so far, up to now

So near yet so far = very close, nearly

Not just yet = not at the moment

 

Fixed expressions with STILL:

Still and all = nevertheless

The best is still to come = the future holds something better

It is still early days = it is too soon to call

Hold still = not move

Still going strong = continue being successful or healthy

The still of the night = the silence and calm at night

 

Yet and still can be confusing adverbs and you need to make sure you review them. Take a look at our posts on grammar structures (HERE) to get our free PDFs and practice and for more vocabulary take a look at our post on word patterns and collocations (HERE)

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