Translation guide
A guide to expressing 'even though' in Japanese, covering contrast, concession, and unexpected results.
Expressing that something happens or is true despite another fact or situation.
Attaches to the plain form of verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Often carries a nuance of surprise, disappointment, or complaint.
Even though it's raining, he went out.
Conceding a point before making a contrasting statement, similar to 'even though it might be true'.
Means 'even assuming that' or 'even if it is the case that'. Used to concede a hypothetical situation.
のに often implies an emotional reaction (surprise, regret, complaint), while ても is more neutral and factual. Use のに when the result is contrary to expectation and you want to express a feeling about it.
Even though I studied hard, I failed (and I'm disappointed).
Even though it was cold, I went swimming.
Even though she's busy, she helped me.
Used with verbs (て-form + も) and adjectives/nouns (て-form + も). Indicates 'even if' or 'even though'. More general than のに, without the emotional nuance.
Even though I read the manual, I don't understand how to use it.
Even though it's expensive, I want to buy it.
Formal pattern meaning 'in spite of' or 'despite'. Used in writing and formal speech.
Even though the weather was bad, the game was held.
Casual and often derogatory. Expresses criticism or contempt. Used for people, not inanimate things.
Can sound rude. Avoid in polite conversation.
Even though he knows nothing, he talks arrogantly.
Even though that might be true, I can't forgive it.
Similar to としても, but slightly more colloquial. Means 'even if' or 'even though'.
Even though you're busy, you could at least call.
Even though I studied hard, I failed (stating a fact).
English 'even though' cannot be directly translated word-for-word. Use the patterns above. Do not use さえ or も alone to mean 'even though'.
Even though I'm tired, I'll keep working.
Using けど (casual) instead of のに is also common in conversation.