German Phrase
Nein, noch nicht.
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to indicate that a specific action or event has not occurred up to the current moment, but is likely expected to happen later. It combines the negation 'nein' with the temporal adverbial 'noch nicht' to express incompleteness.
When to use
Use this phrase when answering a 'yes or no' question about whether a task is finished, an arrival has occurred, or a goal has been reached. It is suitable for both formal and informal conversations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nein,nochnicht
Nein
The standard particle used to answer a closed question in the negative.
Noch nicht
A fixed adverbial construction where 'noch' (still/yet) combines with 'nicht' (not) to indicate that an action is pending.
🗨In Conversation
Bist du schon fertig?
Are you finished already?
Nein, noch nicht.
No, not yet.
✕Common Mistakes
Nein, nicht noch.
The word order is fixed in German; 'noch' must always precede 'nicht' when expressing 'not yet'.
Nein, noch kein.
Use 'nicht' to negate verbs or adverbs; 'kein' is only used to negate nouns with indefinite articles.
↔Alternatives
Bisher nicht.
Not so far.
Noch nicht ganz.
Not quite yet.
Cultural Tip
In German culture, being direct is valued. Saying 'Noch nicht' is seen as an honest status update rather than a failure, though in professional settings, it is often helpful to follow up with a brief estimate of when the task will be done.