依旧

• Pinyin: yī jiù
• Hanzi breakdown: 依 = 亻 (person) + 衣 (clothing) — to depend on; 旧 = 丨 + 日 — old, former

Meaning

Still; as before; as always. Indicates something remains unchanged despite the passage of time or changes in circumstances.

A slightly literary synonym of 仍然 (still) or 还是 (still). Emphasizes continuity and lack of change. Often used in written language or to add emotional weight. 一切依旧 (everything is as before). Carries a sense of constancy or perseverance.

Examples

1. 十年过去了，这座小镇依旧那么安静。 Ten years have passed, and this small town is still just as quiet.
2. 虽然生活艰难，他依旧保持乐观。 Although life is difficult, he still maintains optimism.
3. 分手多年后，她对他的感情依旧没变。 Years after the breakup, her feelings for him still haven't changed.

Usage Guide

Context: narrative, description, emotional expression

Tone: reflective

Do Say

• 他依旧每天早起跑步。(He still goes running early every morning.)
• 故乡的风景依旧美丽。(The scenery of my hometown is still beautiful.)

Don't Say

• 说'依旧地吃饭'作为日常表达 (Don't use 依旧 for mundane daily actions — it's for emphasizing constancy; say 还是在吃饭)

Origin & History

依 (to follow, to depend on) + 旧 (old, former). Together meaning following the old way, hence still as before.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal