already, still

[ggomad]

Hi, would you please take a look at the following question?

Hundreds of viewers have _____ been waiting outside for the next screening of the movie.
A) soon B) yet C) already D) still

Answer : C
I understand "already" is an appropriate one, but why not "still"?

 

[blacknomi]

'still' is used to say something is in the present, not in the past. In your example, it is a present perfect, expressing something happened or never happened.

Hundreds of viewers are still waiting. (OK)


Does that help?

 

[ggomad]

It certainly does! The first time I saw your reply, I didn't realize exactly what you meant. Now, after some more thinking, I understand the point your're making.

Thanks, indeed.

 

[blacknomi]

Good for you!