1.
as usual, as always
Indicates that a situation continues unchanged from before.
相変わらず元気ですね。
You're doing well as always.
Common greeting response
相変わらずの人気ですね。
It's popular as always, isn't it.
久しぶりに会ったが、彼女は相変わらず明るくて優しかった。
I saw her after a long time, and she was cheerful and kind as always.
2.
still
Continuing in the same state without change.
相変わらず雨が降っている。
It's still raining.
彼は相変わらず忙しそうだ。
He still looks busy.
何年経っても、あの店は相変わらず長い行列ができている。
Even after all these years, that shop still has a long line.
相変わらず indicates something continues unchanged.
POSITION: Usually placed at the beginning of a clause or before adjectives/verbs.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 相変わらず + adjective/verb
- 相変わらずの + noun
NUANCE:
Can have neutral, positive, or slightly negative connotations depending on context. Sometimes implies 'same old, same old.'
SIMILAR WORDS:
- いつも通り: as usual (neutral)
- 相変わらず: as always (slightly stronger continuity)