ancora di più
Lemma: ancora di più
Translation: even more; still more; yet more; to an even greater extent (adverbial phrase)
Etymology: This adverbial phrase combines 'ancora' (still, yet) with the comparative construction 'di più' (more). 'Ancora' derives from Latin 'hanc horam' (this hour), which evolved to mean 'until this time' and then 'still/yet'. 'Di' is the preposition 'of/from', and 'più' comes from Latin 'plus' (more), sharing the same root as English 'plus'.
Example Usage
Dopo l'allenamento, sono ancora di più stanco.
After the workout, I'm even more tired.
Questo libro mi piace ancora di più del precedente.
I like this book even more than the previous one.
Dobbiamo lavorare ancora di più per finire il progetto in tempo.
We need to work even more to finish the project on time.
Con questa notizia, sono ancora di più preoccupato.
With this news, I'm even more worried.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ancora' (anchor) weighing something down 'more' (di più) - making it even heavier or more significant.
- Remember 'ancora' sounds like 'encore' in English - when you want 'even more' of a performance.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in everyday Italian conversation and writing to emphasize increasing degree or quantity. It's a natural way to intensify statements and is used across all contexts from casual conversation to formal writing.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Ancora di più' is more emphatic than just 'di più'. 'Di più' simply means 'more', while 'ancora di più' emphasizes an additional increase beyond what was already expected or mentioned.
Notes: The difference is subtle but important for expressing degrees of emphasis.
Mnemonic: 'Ancora di più' has the extra word 'ancora' (still/yet) - which gives you extra emphasis, just like the phrase itself means.
Explanation: 'Ancora di più' indicates a single additional increase, while 'sempre di più' suggests a continuous, ongoing increase (more and more).
This word:
Dopo questo successo, lo ammiro ancora di più.
After this success, I admire him even more.
Confused word:
Col passare del tempo, lo ammiro sempre di più.
As time passes, I admire him more and more.
Notes: The distinction relates to whether the increase is seen as a single additional step or an ongoing process.
Mnemonic: 'Sempre' means 'always', so 'sempre di più' suggests something that's always increasing, while 'ancora di più' is just one more step up.