Usage of 依然
The adverb 依然 means "still" or "as yet," expressing that a situation or state remains unchanged despite possible changes or expectations. It is often used in formal or written contexts but also common in spoken Mandarin.
Common contexts
- To emphasize persistence or continuity despite challenges or time passing.
- To contrast expected change with the actual unchanged state.
Collocations and patterns
- 依然坚持 (still persist): used to highlight determination.
- 依然如故 (still as before): emphasizes no change in condition or relationship.
- 依然存在 (still exist): used for abstract or concrete things that remain.
Notes
- 依然 is similar to 还是 but tends to be more formal and literary.
- It usually appears before verbs or adjectives.
- Avoid confusing 依然 with 仍然; both mean "still," but 依然 often carries a stronger sense of unchanged state or emotion.
Understanding 依然 helps learners express continuity and contrast in nuanced ways.