still could not

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "still could not" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a continuance of the same level of inability or inability at the time of the sentence. For example: "Despite my best efforts, I still could not solve the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He still could not accept nonviolent revolution.

The New Yorker

Ed Turner still could not shake his depression.

The New Yorker

She still could not place him.

The New York Times

Struggling Minnesota still could not beat him.

The New York Times - Sports

He still could not get out.

The New York Times - Sports

They still could not stop Detroit.

The New York Times - Sports

Today, he still could not believe it.

The New York Times - Sports

Ryan still could not figure it all out.

The New York Times

Each time, he said he still could not pay.

The New York Times

I still could not trust myself to speak.

The New Yorker

But an SDRM still could not make sovereign debt enforceable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "still could not" to clearly indicate that a previous attempt or expectation did not result in success or ability. It helps to establish continuity or a lack of progress.

Common error

Avoid using "still could not" in overly simplistic sentences where a direct negative statement would be more concise and impactful. For example, instead of "He still could not see the board", consider "He couldn't see the board."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still could not" functions as a negative polarity item, indicating a continuation of a previous inability or a failure to achieve something despite prior efforts or expectations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Sports

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "still could not" is a versatile and frequently used expression that indicates a lack of progress or continued inability, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a negative polarity item, conveying that something has remained impossible despite previous attempts or expectations. Predominantly found in news, science, and sports contexts, its neutral register allows for broad application. While grammatically correct, writers should avoid overuse in simple sentences where a more direct negative statement would be more effective. As you write, remember that "still could not" is best employed when highlighting the persistence of an inability or failure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remained unable to

Emphasizes a state of continued inability.

continued to be unable to

Highlights the ongoing nature of the inability.

was still incapable of

Focuses on a lack of capability.

yet failed to

Implies a lack of success despite previous attempts.

even then could not

Adds emphasis on the circumstances surrounding the inability.

despite everything could not

Highlights the presence of mitigating factors.

hadn't managed to

Indicates a lack of success in achieving something.

persisted in being unable to

Emphasizes the ongoing and unchanging nature of the inability.

for all that could not

Highlights a contrast with previous situations.

nevertheless was unable to

Introduces a note of concession.

FAQs

How can I use "still could not" in a sentence?

Use "still could not" to show that despite a previous attempt, condition, or expectation, something remained impossible. For instance, "Despite my best efforts, I "still could not" solve the problem".

What phrases are similar to "still could not"?

Alternatives include "remained unable to", "continued to be unable to", or "yet failed to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Consider the context to select an alternative that fits the meaning appropriately.

Is it ever incorrect to use "still could not"?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "still could not" in simple sentences can sound redundant. Opt for a more direct negative statement when brevity enhances clarity.

Which is more formal, "still could not" or "was unable to"?

"Was unable to" is generally more formal than ""still could not"". Use "was unable to" in formal writing, and ""still could not"" in neutral or informal contexts.