Translation guide
The English phrase "even if" introduces a hypothetical or concessive condition. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the conditional ~ても/でも pattern, but other structures exist for emphasis, formality, or specific nuances.
To say that something will happen or is true regardless of a possible condition, often hypothetical.
The most common and versatile way to say 'even if'. Attach to the て-form of verbs, adjectives, or nouns + で.
Even if it rains, I'll go.
Even if it's expensive, I'll buy it.
Even if he doesn't come, the party will be fun.
Emphasizes the hypothetical nature. Often used when the condition is unlikely or contrary to fact. More formal/literary than ~ても.
Even if he apologized, I wouldn't forgive him.
Even if it rains tomorrow, the game will be held.
Similar to ~ても, but often used after nouns or to concede a point before making a contrasting statement. Slightly more formal.
Even if he comes, he'll probably be late.
Even if it's a joke, it's too cruel.
Literally 'even if one says', used to downplay or qualify a preceding statement. Often translates as 'although' or 'even though', but can mean 'even if' in hypothetical contexts.
Even if he comes, he'll probably leave right away.
To strongly emphasize that the result is unchanged regardless of the extremity of the condition.
Adding たとえ (or たとい) before a ~ても clause strongly emphasizes the hypothetical nature, similar to 'even if' in English. Often used with ~としても.
Even if I fail, it's worth trying.
Even if you have no money, you can be happy.
Used with adjectives or verbs to mean 'no matter how much' or 'even if (it is) very...'. Emphasizes degree.
Even if it's very difficult, I won't give up.
To concede a fact or situation for the sake of argument, often followed by a contrasting statement.
Attaches to the plain form of verbs/adjectives/nouns + だ. Means 'even assuming that...' or 'even if it is the case that...'. Often used with たとえ.
Even if he is right, his method is bad.
Even if that's true, the way you said it was harsh.
~ても is the everyday 'even if'. ~たとしても is more hypothetical and often used with たとえ for emphasis. ~たとしても can sound more formal or literary.
Even if it rains, I'll go. (neutral)
Even if it were to rain, I would go. (more hypothetical/emphatic)
English 'even if' is hypothetical; 'even though' is factual. Japanese ~ても can cover both, but context clarifies. Use ~のに for 'even though' when emphasizing contrast with reality.
Even though it's raining, he went out.
どんなに頼んでも、彼は聞いてくれなかった。
Even if I begged him, he wouldn't listen.