steeds — meaning in English: still

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Guess the translation for still

exemplarisch

met de deur in huis vallen

spijt

steeds

wijsheid

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neutral common

Usage

Dutch speakers commonly use the word 'steeds' in conversations about ongoing situations or actions that continue over time. For example, someone might say, 'Het wordt steeds kouder,' which translates to 'It is getting colder still,' to describe the gradual drop in temperature during autumn. It can also be used in storytelling or personal anecdotes to emphasize a persistent change or feeling.

Synonyms & nuances

'Steeds' can be compared to the words 'nog' and 'altijd.' While 'nog' means 'still' in a more immediate sense, 'steeds' implies a gradual or ongoing nature of that 'stillness.' You would choose 'steeds' when you want to convey a sense of continuity or increase over time rather than just a static state.

Culture

'Steeds' has its roots in Middle Dutch, where it originally meant 'continuously' or 'always.' The word has evolved to encompass a sense of persistence and continuity, often reflecting the Dutch appreciation for gradual change over time, which is seen in their cultural attitude towards life and work. Interestingly, the word also appears in various proverbs and idioms, highlighting its significance in everyday Dutch expressions.

FAQ

Q.What does the Dutch word 'steeds' mean?

'Steeds' translates to 'still' or 'increasingly' in English, often used to indicate something that continues or intensifies over time.

Q.How do you use 'steeds' in a sentence?

'Steeds' can be used in sentences like 'Hij wordt steeds beter in Nederlands,' meaning 'He is getting better at Dutch still.' It emphasizes the ongoing improvement.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 'steeds'?

'Steeds' is often confused with 'nog' by learners. While both can mean 'still,' 'steeds' conveys an ongoing process or change, whereas 'nog' generally refers to something that remains the same.

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Dutch Vocabulary