〜とはいえ

Even though...

1. Overview

「〜とはいえ」 is used to express a contrast, acknowledging a fact or situation, but then presenting something contrary or unexpected. It often conveys that while a certain fact is true, the outcome or the following statement does not fully align with it.

2. Structure

• Noun + とはいえ
• Verb (plain form) + とはいえ
• Adjective (い-form/な-form) + とはいえ

3. Usage Explanation

• Acknowledging and presenting a contrast:
  This structure acknowledges a fact or situation but follows it up with a contrasting point or something unexpected. It can often be used to soften a claim or to show a subtle shift in opinion.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "Even though...," "Although...," or "Nevertheless..." showing that while something is acknowledged, the following statement adds nuance or contrast.

4. Example Sentences

1. 4月とはいえ、まだ寒い日が続いている。
   Even though it’s April, cold days are still continuing.

2. プロとはいえ、完璧なプレーは難しい。
   Even though they are professionals, perfect play is still difficult.

3. 若いとはいえ、体力には限界がある。
   Even though they are young, there are still limits to their stamina.

4. 勉強したとはいえ、試験に合格する自信はない。
   Even though I studied, I don’t have confidence that I will pass the exam.

5. 休みとはいえ、宿題がたくさんある。
   Even though it’s a break, there’s still a lot of homework.

5. Key Points to Note

• Contrast:
  「〜とはいえ」 is used to create contrast by acknowledging a fact but showing that the situation is not as straightforward as it seems.

• Formal and informal use:
  It can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it versatile for written and spoken language.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜にもかかわらず: A stronger expression for “despite...” or “even though.”
  • Example: 雨が降っているにもかかわらず、試合は行われた。
    Despite the rain, the match was held.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ものの: Similar in meaning, expressing “although... but...”
  • Example: 勉強したものの、試験に合格できなかった。
    Although I studied, I couldn’t pass the exam.

8. Summary

「〜とはいえ」 is a grammar structure used to acknowledge a fact or situation but follow it with a contrasting or unexpected result. It shows that the situation isn't as straightforward as expected.