Processing keyword: 虽然...却... (suīrán... què...) - Although... yet...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 虽然...却... (suīrán... què...) - Although... yet...

虽然...却... (suīrán... què...) - Although... yet....

1. Introduction

The construction 虽然...却... is commonly used in Mandarin to express a contrast between two clauses. It's akin to saying "although... yet..." in English, where the first clause presents a situation or condition, and the second clause expresses an opposing view or result.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• 虽然 (suīrán) means "although" or "though."
• 却 (què) means "yet" or "but." This structure is used to highlight a situation that might typically lead to an expected outcome, but the actual result is contrary to what one might anticipate.

Structure & Formation

The basic format is:

虽然 + Clause 1 +，却 + Clause 2

• Clause 1 presents a fact or situation.
• Clause 2 offers a contrasting fact or unexpected outcome.

Visual Aid

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 虽然...但是... (suīrán... dànshì...): This is another similar structure that means "although... but...". The difference is more semantic; though both convey contrast, "但是" tends to imply a stronger contradiction, while "却" implies a gentle counter.
• 尽管...还是... (jǐnguǎn... háishi...): This means "despite... still...", suggesting a more significant emphasis on resilience against the adverse effect compared to "虽然...却...".

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Sentence
   • 虽然这项技术很先进，却仍然有很多人不理解。
   • (Although this technology is advanced, yet many people still do not understand it.)
2. Informal Sentence
   • 虽然我很累，却想继续看电影。
   • (Although I am tired, yet I want to keep watching the movie.)
3. Written Form
   • 虽然他的计划有缺陷，却被大家认可。
   • (Although his plan has flaws, yet it is recognized by everyone.)
4. Spoken Form
   • 虽然我讨厌跑步，却每天都去健身房。
   • (Although I hate running, yet I go to the gym every day.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The use of 虽然...却... reflects a common aspect of Chinese culture where indirect expression is prevalent. It allows for providing an opinion without being overly confrontational.

Levels of Politeness

Using this structure can make statements sound more humble or polite, softening the impact of a contrasting opinion. In contrast, using "但是" may sound more assertive.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 虽然还是重要 (suīrán hái shì zhòngyào) - "Although it (may be) still important" emphasizes the significance while acknowledging doubts.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrectly confusing 虽然...却... with 虽然...但是... can lead to unintended nuances. "但是" often conveys a stronger opposition than "却".

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "却" as a more friendly way of contrasting by thinking of it as the less aggressive "yet".
• Practice forming sentences that juxtapose daily life experiences, reinforcing the understanding of contrast.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 虽然...却... expresses contrast and is softer compared to 虽然...但是....
• It is used frequently in both spoken and written Mandarin.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 虽然 mean in English?
2. Is 但是 a stronger contrast than 却?
3. Create a sentence using 虽然...却....
   Feel free to ask any questions or for further clarification on this grammar point!