French Phrase
Tu étudies encore ?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct way to ask if someone is continuing their studies at the moment. It uses the present tense of the verb 'étudier' combined with the adverb 'encore', which translates to 'still' in this context. It can carry a tone of surprise, concern, or simple curiosity depending on the situation.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal settings with friends, siblings, or classmates. It is most commonly used late at night or during the weekend when you notice someone is still working hard.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tuétudiesencore
Tu (Subject Pronoun)
The informal singular 'you' used for friends, family, and peers.
Étudies (Verb)
The second-person singular present form of 'étudier'. It covers both 'study' and 'are studying'.
Encore (Adverb)
In this context, it means 'still'. It is usually placed after the conjugated verb.
🗨In Conversation
Il est minuit. Tu étudies encore ?
It's midnight. Are you still studying?
Oui, j'ai un examen de français demain.
Yes, I have a French exam tomorrow.
✕Common Mistakes
Tu es étudies encore ?
In French, the present continuous (are studying) is expressed using the simple present tense. Do not add the verb 'être'.
Tu étudies toujours ?
While 'toujours' can mean 'always' or 'still', 'encore' is the more natural choice for an ongoing action that hasn't finished yet.
↔Alternatives
Est-ce que tu étudies encore ?
Are you still studying? (More formal structure)
Tu bosses toujours ?
Are you still working/slogging? (Informal/Slang)
Tu n'as pas encore fini ?
Haven't you finished yet?
Cultural Tip
French students often study late into the evening, especially during 'période de révision' (exam season). Using 'tu' is appropriate for peers, but if you were asking a professor or an older student you don't know well, you would say 'Vous étudiez encore ?'.