noch

Noch is a German adverb and particle with several related meanings. It commonly expresses that a state continues (“still”), indicates something added or expected in addition (“in addition; more”), or intensifies a comparative (“even”). In contrast to schon, which means “already,” noch often expresses continuation or delay: “Es ist noch früh” (it’s still early), “Hast du noch Zeit?” (Do you still have time?).

Usage and forms: With negation, noch combines with nicht to form phrases such as “noch nicht” meaning “not yet.” It can also create phrases meaning “more,” “again,” or “another”: “noch einmal” (one more time), “noch mehr” (even more). It appears with numbers: “noch zwei Tage” (two more days). It can modify adjectives and adverbs: “noch größer,” “noch schneller.” It can accompany verbs in ongoing states: “Ich bin noch hier.”

Common constructions: “noch immer” or “noch überall” emphasize persistence: “Er ist noch immer krank.” “Noch nie” means “never yet” or simply “never” in perfect contexts: “Ich habe ihn noch nie gesehen.” “Noch dazu” adds information: “Noch dazu hat er Verspätung.” These uses illustrate how noch operates as a flexible marker of time, addition, or emphasis in German.

Etymology and related terms: The word is of Germanic origin and cognate with West Germanic forms in neighboring languages; it developed in medieval and modern German to express continuation and addition. It is distinct from related terms like “schon” (already) and “auch” (also) in meaning and usage.