How to Say “Todavía” in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to learning Spanish, one essential word you need to master is “todavía.” It is a versatile term that is used in various contexts and can have multiple meanings depending on the situation. In this guide, we will delve into the different ways to say “todavía” in both formal and informal settings. Let’s explore this Spanish term in-depth, providing you with numerous tips and examples along the way.

1. Formal Expressions with “Todavía”

In formal settings, it is crucial to use appropriate language. Here are some ways to express “todavía” formally:

1. Aún
A very common and widely accepted synonym for “todavía” is “aún.” The two terms can be used interchangeably in most contexts. For instance:

Example: El informe aún no está terminado. (The report is not finished yet.)

2. No… todavía
Another formal way to convey “todavía” is by using it in a negative sentence construction. Simply combine “no” with “todavía” to indicate “not yet.” For example:

Example: No he recibido la invitación todavía. (I haven’t received the invitation yet.)

2. Informal Expressions with “Todavía”

In more casual conversations, you can use informal expressions to convey the concept of “todavía.” Here are a few popular options:

1. Todavía no
The simple combination of “todavía” and “no” is the most common way to say “not yet” in informal Spanish. For example:

Example: ¿Ya terminaste tus deberes? Todavía no. (Have you finished your homework? Not yet.)

2. Aún no
Similar to its use in formal settings, “aún no” also works in informal speech. It is often preferred by native speakers. Here’s an example:

Example: Aún no sé qué regalo comprarle. (I still don’t know what gift to buy for them.)

3. Regional Variations

Spanish is widely spoken across many regions, and sometimes the use of “todavía” can vary slightly. Here are a couple of regional variations:

1. Todavía no
In some Latin American countries like Mexico, it’s common to use “todavía no” but with a different stress pattern. The stress falls on the second syllable, creating a slight variation in pronunciation. For instance:

Example: Todavía no tengo tu número de teléfono. (I still don’t have your phone number.)

2. Todavina
In certain regions of Spain, such as Andalusia, you may come across the regional variation “todavina.” Note that this is considered an informal usage and is specific to that region only. For example:

Example: ¿Vas a la fiesta? Todavina no lo sé. (Are you going to the party? I still don’t know.)

4. Tips for Using “Todavía” in Context

While understanding the different ways to say “todavía” is important, it is equally crucial to know how to use it effectively in context. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Pay attention to word order: In Spanish, the word order may change when expressing “todavía” in a negative sentence. For example, “No he terminado todavía” means “I haven’t finished yet,” whereas “Todavía no he terminado” has the same meaning but a different word order.
2. Use it with the verb “estar”: When expressing a temporary or ongoing state, it is common to pair “todavía” with the verb “estar.” For instance, “Todavía estoy aprendiendo español” means “I am still learning Spanish.”
3. Combine with adverbs: You can strengthen the meaning of “todavía” by combining it with adverbs such as “siempre” (always) or “nunca” (never). For example, “Todavía nunca he visitado ese país” means “I have never visited that country yet.”
4. Be mindful of regional variations: If you encounter different pronunciations or variations of “todavía” in specific regions, embrace the diversity of the Spanish language. It’s an opportunity to learn and appreciate the rich linguistic heritage of Spanish-speaking countries.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “todavía” in Spanish is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we have explored various ways to express “todavía” formally and informally. Remember, “aún” is the most common synonym, while “todavina” is a regional variation specific to certain parts of Spain. By practicing these expressions and using them in context, you will become more confident and eloquent in your Spanish conversations. Embrace the richness of the Spanish language, and enjoy discovering the different nuances and regional variations of “todavía.”

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)