What it means
なかなか is an adverb with two closely related uses. With an affirmative predicate, it means “quite,” “rather,” or “surprisingly well,” and expresses a higher degree than expected. With a negative predicate, it means “not easily,” “not readily,” or “for a long time without success.” The negative use is especially common when describing something that has not happened despite repeated effort or the passage of time.
Usage note
The meaning changes significantly depending on polarity: なかなか with an affirmative predicate expresses a favorable or relatively high degree, while なかなか with a negative predicate usually expresses difficulty or delay.
How to use it
新しい計画はなかなかうまく進んでいます。
The new plan is progressing quite smoothly.
原因はなかなか特定できません。
The cause cannot be identified easily.
新しい計画はなかなかうまく進んでいる。
The new plan is progressing quite smoothly.
原因はなかなか特定できない。
The cause cannot be identified easily.
Example sentences
市役所に何度も電話していますが、なかなか担当者につながりません。
I have called city hall many times, but I still cannot get through to the person in charge.
新しい炊飯器を使ってみたら、なかなかおいしく炊けました。
When I tried using the new rice cooker, I was able to cook the rice surprisingly well.
駅の案内板を見ても、なかなか目的の出口が見つかりません。
Even after looking at the station guide signs, I cannot readily find the exit I need.