Italian Phrase
Sto ancora aspettando una risposta.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "I am still waiting for an answer." It's used to express that you are currently in the process of waiting for a reply or resolution to something, and that this waiting has been ongoing. It conveys a sense of continuity and often a hint of impatience or anticipation.
When to use
You would use this phrase when you've sent an email, made a request, or applied for something and haven't received a response yet. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the tone and situation. For example, you might say it to a friend about a job application or to a colleague about a project update.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Stoancoraaspettandounarisposta
Stare + Gerund
This construction ('stare' conjugated + gerund) is used to express an action that is currently in progress, similar to the English 'to be + -ing.' 'Sto' is the first-person singular conjugation of 'stare'.
Ancora
'Ancora' means 'still' or 'yet.' It indicates that an action or state is continuing or has not happened up to the present moment.
Aspettando
This is the gerund form of the verb 'aspettare' (to wait). When used with 'stare,' it forms the present continuous tense.
Una risposta
'Una' is the indefinite article 'a/an' for feminine singular nouns. 'Risposta' means 'answer' or 'reply.' Note that 'aspettare' directly takes its object without a preposition like 'per'.
🗨In Conversation
Hai avuto notizie dal colloquio?
Did you hear back from the interview?
No, sto ancora aspettando una risposta.
No, I'm still waiting for an answer.
✕Common Mistakes
Sono ancora aspettando una risposta.
The verb 'stare' (sto) is used for continuous actions with the gerund, not 'essere' (sono).
Sto ancora aspettando per una risposta.
The verb 'aspettare' (to wait for) does not require a preposition like 'per' in Italian when followed by a direct object.
↔Alternatives
Attendo ancora una risposta.
I still await an answer.
Non ho ancora ricevuto una risposta.
I haven't received an answer yet.
Sono in attesa di una risposta.
I am awaiting an answer.
Cultural Tip
In Italian communication, especially in professional or bureaucratic settings, waiting for a response can sometimes take longer than expected in other cultures. While "Sto ancora aspettando una risposta" is a direct statement, it's generally polite to follow up rather than assume a lack of interest. However, repeated follow-ups too quickly might be seen as pushy.