Processing keyword: ～にしても (〜ni shitemo)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にしても (〜ni shitemo)

Grammar Point: ～にしても (～ni shitemo)

1. Introduction

The Japanese grammar point ～にしても (～ni shitemo) is used to express concession or contrast, similar to the English phrase "even if" or "even though". It indicates that regardless of the situation or condition stated, the conclusion or outcome will remain unchanged.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase indicates that something applies regardless of the circumstances. It introduces a condition that is acknowledged but does not change the main point being made.

• Structure:

  • The structure generally follows this form:
    • [Noun/Verb て-form] + にしても
  • For verbs, the て-form is required.

Formation Diagram

[Noun/Verb て-form] + にしても → "even if/as for"

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ～としても (to shitemo): Similar to ～にしても, but often used for hypothetical or conditional situations.

  • Example: 彼が来るとしても、遅れるでしょう。 (Even if he comes, he will be late.)

• ～でも (demo): More casual and can be used in a broader sense.

  • Example: 雨でも行きます。 (I will go even if it rains.)

Differences

• Context: ～にしても is more formal and often used in written language compared to ～でも.
• Usage: ～にしても tends to be more specific about acknowledging a point before contrasting it, while ～でも can be used in a broader context.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 経済的な問題にしても、私たちは解決策を見つけなければならない。
   • (Even in terms of economic issues, we must find a solution.)
2. Informal Context:
   • 友達にしても、あまり遠慮しないで。
   • (Even with friends, don’t hesitate too much.)
3. Written Context:
   • この条件にしても、彼はまだ参加を拒否している。
   • (Even under these conditions, he still refuses to participate.)
4. Spoken Context:
   • テストにしても、もっと勉強すればよかった。
   • (Even for the test, I should have studied more.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Politeness and Formality: Using ～にしても is a more polite and formal way of expressing a point of contrast, so you might find it in news reports, presentations, or formal discussions.

Idiomatic Expressions

• Though there aren't many direct idiomatic expressions using ～にしても, one can often substitute it with phrases that serve a similar contrastive purpose in various discussions.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Using the plain form of a verb instead of the て-form.
  • Incorrect: 明日行くにしても、早く寝ます。
  • Correct: 明日行くにしても、早く寝ます。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: To remember this grammar point, think of "N" (for noun) or "V" (for verb) leading to an outcome despite the circumstances: "N/V + ni shitemo = Even if N/V, still X."

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The grammar point ～にしても expresses concession or contrast and indicates that the outcome remains the same despite acknowledged conditions.
• It is formed using the noun or verb て-form followed by にしても.
• It is often used in formal contexts and carries levels of politeness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate this sentence: 彼が忙しいにしても、連絡をくれるべきだ。
2. Fill in the blank: 雨が降る___、試合は続ける。 (Choose the correct form: にしても/としても)
3. True or False: ～にしても can be used casually among friends.