Processing keyword: 尽管...但是... (jǐnguǎn... dànshì...) - Although... but...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 尽管...但是... (jǐnguǎn... dànshì...) - Although... but...

Grammar Point: 尽管...但是... (jǐnguǎn... dànshì...) - Although... but...

Introduction

The structure "尽管...但是..." is a common Chinese expression that conveys contrast. It is used to show that even though one situation or condition exists, another situation contradicts or counters it. This construction can be considered similar to the English expression "Although... but..."

Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

1. Meaning: The phrase means that there is a concession being made ("尽管" - "although"), followed by a contrasting statement ("但是" - "but").
2. Structure: The structure can be broken down as follows:
   • 尽管 (jǐnguǎn) - Although
   • [Condition or fact]
   • 但是 (dànshì) - But
   • [Contrasting result or situation]

Formation Diagram

尽管 __________，但是 __________。
      (condition)         (contrast)

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

• Similar Structures:
  • 虽然...但是... (suīrán... dànshì...) - Although... but...
    • Usage: Similar in meaning but "虽然" is more commonly used in written contexts, whereas "尽管" is more casual.
  • 即使...也... (jíshǐ... yě...) - Even if... still...
    • Usage: Indicates a stronger sense of inevitability compared to "尽管".

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Informal Context:
   • 尽管我很累，但是我还是想去看电影。
     • Translation: Although I am very tired, I still want to go watch a movie.
2. Formal Context:
   • 尽管这个计划很复杂，但是我们必须按照时间表执行。
     • Translation: Although this plan is complex, we must adhere to the timetable.
3. Spoken Context:
   • 尽管她不喜欢热天，但她还是去海滩了。
     • Translation: Although she doesn’t like hot days, she still went to the beach.
4. Written Context:
   • 尽管经济形势不佳，但是公司依然实现了利润增长。
     • Translation: Although the economic situation is poor, the company still achieved profit growth.

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The use of "尽管...但是..." reflects the Chinese cultural tendency to acknowledge difficulties while maintaining a positive outlook. It embodies a form of resilience and determination, which is often valued in Chinese society.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

The phrase is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal situations, although the overall context and choice of words surrounding it may vary to reflect the level of respect or politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 尽管如此 (jǐnguǎn rúcǐ) - Nevertheless
  • Example: 尽管如此，我们依旧会努力。
    • Translation: Nevertheless, we will continue to work hard.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Usage: Students oftentimes omit "但是" after "尽管".
  • Incorrect: 尽管我很忙，我要去。
  • Correct: 尽管我很忙，但是我要去。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "Although (尽管) leads to a 'but' (但是)" to keep the structures aligned.
• Practice with Contextual Sentences: Create your own examples involving familiar situations to reinforce usage.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "尽管...但是..." is used to express contrast between a condition and its opposite consequence.
• It can be employed in both spoken and written forms, making it a versatile phrase.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "尽管" mean?
   • A) Regardless
   • B) Although
   • C) Even if
   • Answer: B) Although
2. Complete the sentence: 尽管我不喜欢____，但是我会尝试。
   • A) 室内
   • B) 这个
   • C) 看书
   • Answer: C) 看书. (Although I don’t like reading, I will try it.)
3. What is the primary purpose of using "尽管...但是..."?
   • A) To express agreement
   • B) To show contrast
   • C) To ask a question
   • Answer: B) To show contrast.