即使...也(jíshǐ...yě)
Even If / Even Though
Structure Pattern
Explanation
即使...也 (jíshǐ...yě) means "even if...still." It concedes an extreme or hypothetical condition but states the result won't change. Stronger than 虽然...但是 — which acknowledges a real fact, while 即使 can be hypothetical.
Comparison:
- 虽然...但是: "Although X is true, Y" (real fact)
- 即使...也: "Even if X were true, Y wouldn't change" (hypothetical/extreme)
Example Sentences
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Jíshǐ xià yǔ, wǒ yě yào qù.
Even if it rains, I'm still going.
Jíshǐ shībài le, yě bú yào fàngqì.
Even if you fail, don't give up.
Jíshǐ tā bù lái, wǒmen yě néng wánchéng.
Even if he doesn't come, we can still finish.
Jíshǐ hěn lèi, tā yě jiānchí duànliàn.
Even if she's tired, she still exercises.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
即使他很高，但是他打篮球不好。
Correct Usage
即使他很高，他也打篮球不好。
Don't mix 即使 with 但是. The correct pair is 即使...也, not 即使...但是.
Related Grammar Points
Although...But
suīrán...dànshì
Unlike English where you use either "although" OR "but," Chinese uses BOTH together: 虽然...但是. You can replace 但是 with 可是 (kěshì) for a softer tone. The 虽然 half is sometimes dropped in casual speech.
No Matter / Regardless
wúlùn...dōu
无论 (wúlùn) means "no matter" or "regardless of." It's followed by a question word (什么, 谁, 哪) or an either/or choice, then 都 or 也 in the result clause. The result is the same under ALL conditions. You can substitute 不管 (bùguǎn) in less formal speech.
Master 即使...也
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