もっともAdmittedly; with one qualification
もっとも accepts a preceding statement in broad terms, then adds an exception, condition, or reservation that narrows it. The first statement is qualified, not completely withdrawn.
How it works
First make a claim that remains broadly true. Then use もっとも to append something the reader should keep in mind: an exception, a necessary condition, or a detail that reduces the claim’s scope.
この資料は概要をつかむには十分だ。もっとも、細部を確認するには原文も読む必要がある。
This material is enough to grasp the outline. That said, you also need to read the original to check the details.
AnalyzeThe material is still sufficient for an overview; the second sentence limits what it is sufficient for.
A narrowing afterthought
もっとも often feels like a separately added qualification: “The main point stands, although I should add this.” It is therefore a poor choice when the second sentence simply rejects or reverses the first.
In formal writing
本制度は来年度から全支店で導入する。もっとも、設備更新が遅れている支店については、開始時期を別途定める。
This system will be introduced at all branches starting next fiscal year. However, a separate start date will be set for branches where equipment upgrades are delayed.
AnalyzeThe general implementation rule remains in force, while one group of branches receives an exception.
In careful speech
会議は三時に終わる予定です。
The meeting is scheduled to end at three.
Analyzeはい。もっとも、議題が増えれば少し延びるかもしれません。
Yes. Though it may run a little longer if more items are added to the agenda.
AnalyzeThis is possible in a deliberate briefing or meeting, though a casual conversation would normally use a more everyday connective.
Other ways to qualify a statement
もっとも typically appends a measured reservation after a claim. とはいえ more directly acknowledges a statement and introduces a counterpoint. といっても is often more conversational and narrows an impression that a description might otherwise create.
More examples
店は駅から近い。もっとも、入口は少し分かりにくい。
The shop is close to the station. Mind you, the entrance is a little hard to find.
Analyze参加は無料だ。もっとも、事前登録が必要である。
Participation is free. However, advance registration is required.
Analyzeこの案で基本的には問題ない。もっとも、予算の見積もりは再検討したほうがいい。
There is basically no problem with this proposal. That said, we should reconsider the budget estimate.
Analyze会期中は原則として毎日展示を見学できる。もっとも、点検のため休館する場合がある。
In principle, the exhibition can be visited every day during its run. However, the venue may close for inspections.
Analyze彼の説明には説得力がある。もっとも、示されたデータはやや古い。
His explanation is persuasive. Admittedly, the data presented is somewhat old.
Analyze明日は予定どおり出発します。もっとも、天候が急変した場合は延期します。
We will depart tomorrow as scheduled. However, we will postpone the departure if the weather changes suddenly.
Analyze