依然

• Reading: いぜん
• Romaji: izen
• Kanji breakdown: 依 (i) — to depend, rely on; 然 (zen) — as such, in that manner
• Pronunciation: /i.zeɴ/

Meaning

Still; as yet; as before. Indicates a situation remains unchanged despite expectations.

An adverb often followed by として (依然として) to form the most common pattern, meaning 'still' or 'as before.' Used when a situation persists despite the passage of time or efforts to change it. More formal and literary than まだ (still). Frequently appears in news and reports: 依然として問題が続いている (the problem still continues).

Examples

1. 事故から一年経つが、依然として原因は不明だ。 A year has passed since the accident, but the cause is still unknown.
2. 依然として多くの人が避難生活を送っている。 Many people are still living as evacuees.
3. 景気は依然として回復の兆しが見えない。 The economy still shows no signs of recovery.

Usage Guide

Context: news, reports, formal writing

Tone: persistent

Origin & History

Compound of 依 (i, to depend/to be based on) and 然 (zen, as such/in that manner). Together, 'depending on that state' — remaining in the same condition as before.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal