1Indicates that a state continues; still or yet (something remains the same). Often written in kana.
問題はなお残っている。
The problem still remains.
彼は怪我をしたが、なお試合に出た。
He was injured, but he still played in the match.
なお詳しい情報は後日お知らせします。
Further details will be announced at a later date.
2Indicates an additional increase in amount or degree; more or still more (similar to 'further' or 'more').
説明をなお詳しく書いてください。
Please write the explanation in even more detail.
彼の成績は良かったが、なお努力が必要だ。
His grades were good, but he still needs to work even harder.
今後はなお一層の安全対策が求められる。
Even stronger safety measures will be required from now on.
3A conjunction used to add something to what was previously said; means 'furthermore' or 'moreover'.
彼女は日本語が上手だ。なお礼儀正しく、信用できる人だ。
She speaks Japanese well. Moreover, she is polite and trustworthy.
会議は成功した。なお、新しい課題も見つかった。
The meeting was successful. In addition, new issues were identified.
商品の値段は安い。なお品質も良い。
The price of the product is low. Furthermore, the quality is good.
4A literary, somewhat archaic usage, usually in the pattern 'なお…ごとし (ごとく)', adding the nuance 'as if / just like...'.
その名将の武勇はなお伝説のごとく語り継がれている。
The valor of that great general is still passed down as if it were legend.
彼の眼差しはなお氷のごとく冷たかった。
His gaze was still as cold as ice.