Meaning of still: Should I use the Present Simple in this sentence?

[Alena]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #173 "Simple Present, Simple Past, Simple Future", question 2

My father still ......... heating oil from a company in Chicago.

(a) buys
(b) bought
(c) will buy

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #173 "Simple Present, Simple Past, Simple Future", answer 2

My father still buys heating oil from a company in Chicago.

Correct answer: (a) buys

Your answer was: incorrect
My father still will buy heating oil from a company in Chicago.
_________________________

Can you explain me the meaning of the word "still"?
And should I use the Present Simple in this sentence?
I think three of them are rather suitable, don't I?

Alena

[Yankee]

Hi Alena

Your questions are good ones.
Yes, it can be argued that any of the three choices might be correct.

Here is my take on the three:
- 'still buys' --> I'd interpret this to mean 'continues to buy (as previously)'

- 'still bought' --> This could indicate a past continuation of a certain activity (buy) or it could have the sense of 'nevertheless'. It would depend on the broader context.

- 'still will buy' --> This one might also be possible and I'd interpret 'still' as 'nevertheless'. It does sound a bit unfinished or incomplete, though, without any further context to justify a sense of 'nevertheless'. Although I think 'still will buy' is possible, 'will still buy' would be more typical word order.

I'd also like to suggest some rewording for your original questions:
Can you explain the meaning of the word "still" (to me)?
And should I use the Present Simple in this sentence?
I think all three of them are suitable, don't you?

Amy