B1 Conjunctions & Connectors 8 min read Easy

Using 'jǐnguǎn' (尽管): How to Say 'Even Though' in Chinese

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} introduces a fact to emphasize a surprising or contrasting outcome.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {尽管|jǐnguǎn} to introduce a concession, followed by a result that contrasts with the expectation.

  • Place {尽管|jǐnguǎn} at the start of the first clause: {尽管|jǐnguǎn} it's raining, I'll go.
  • Pair with {但是|dànshì} or {可是|kěshì} in the second clause for emphasis.
  • The subject can go before or after {尽管|jǐnguǎn} depending on emphasis.
尽管 (Even though) + [Fact] + , + [Unexpected Result]

Overview

Ever posted a gym selfie with a caption like, "Even though I'm exhausted, I still made it!"? That feeling of pushing through an obstacle is exactly what 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is all about. It's the Chinese way of saying "even though," "although," or "despite." You use it to connect two ideas where the second one is a bit surprising or unexpected given the first.

Think of it as setting up a mini-drama in your sentence: here's a fact, but plot twist, here's what's happening anyway. It’s perfect for showing your determination, pointing out an interesting contrast, or just making your sentences sound more advanced. Mastering 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is a huge step up from just using simple "but" sentences, and it makes your Chinese sound much more natural and expressive.

How This Grammar Works

At its core, 尽管(jǐnguǎn) introduces a concession. That's a fancy way of saying you're admitting one fact is true (It's raining) before you state a second, contrasting fact (I'm still going out). The first part of the sentence, the 尽管(jǐnguǎn) clause, sets the stage.
It presents a situation, a reason, or an obstacle. The second part of the sentence delivers the punchline—the main action or result that happens in spite of that first part. It’s like saying, "Yes, I acknowledge this thing, but it's not going to stop me/this other thing from happening." This creates a sense of tension and resolution all in one go.
It’s way more powerful than just saying "It is raining, but I am going out." 尽管(jǐnguǎn) puts the focus on the contrast, making your statement feel more deliberate and a little bit more dramatic. Honestly, who doesn't love a little drama in their grammar?

Formation Pattern

1
Getting the hang of the structure is super easy. You just pop 尽管(jǐnguǎn) at the beginning of the clause that contains the obstacle or concession. The real trick is remembering to add a little transition word in the second half of the sentence. Think of them as best friends that often appear together.
2
Here's the main pattern:
3
Start with 尽管(jǐnguǎn): Begin your sentence with 尽管(jǐnguǎn) followed by the concessive clause (the "even though" part).
4
尽管(jǐnguǎn) 天气(tiānqì) 很 冷(lěng)... (Even though the weather is very cold...)
5
Add a Comma: Separate the two clauses with a comma.
6
State the Main Clause: Now, state the surprising outcome. This clause is often, but not always, introduced by a contrasting word.
7
Common partners are 但是(dànshì) (but), 可是(kěshì) (but, slightly more informal), or 还是(háishì) (still, yet).
8
The Full Formula:
9
尽管 + Fact A, 但是/可是/还是 + Fact B (the surprising outcome)
10
Example with 但是(dànshì): 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 中文(zhōngwén) 很 难(nán), 但是(dànshì) 我 喜欢(xǐhuān) 学习(xuéxí).
11
(Even though Chinese is hard, I like to study it.)
12
Example with 还是(háishì): 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 我 很 累(lèi), 我 还是(háishì) 想(xiǎng) 去(qù) 看(kàn) 电影(diànyǐng).
13
(Even though I'm very tired, I still want to go see the movie.)
14
It’s like a recipe: one part 尽管(jǐnguǎn), one part surprising result, and a dash of 但是(dànshì) or 还是(háishì) to spice it up.

When To Use It

You'll find 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is incredibly useful in all sorts of modern situations. It's not just for writing formal essays; it's for everyday life when things don't go exactly as expected.
  • Making plans with friends over text: "尽管(jǐnguǎn) 我 明天(míngtiān) 有 考试(kǎoshì), 我 还是(háishì) 想(xiǎng) 和(hé) 你 出去(chūqù) 玩(wán)。" (Even though I have an exam tomorrow, I still want to go out with you.) It shows your friend they're a priority!
  • Writing a social media caption: You post a picture of a delicious, unhealthy cake. The caption: "尽管(jǐnguǎn) 我 在 减肥(jiǎnféi), 但是(dànshì) 这个 蛋糕(dàngāo) 看(kàn) 起来(qǐlái) 太 好吃(hǎochī) 了!" (Even though I'm on a diet, this cake looks too delicious!) It's relatable and adds a bit of humor.
  • Talking about work or school: "尽管(jǐnguǎn) 这个 项目(xiàngmù) 很 复杂(fùzá), 我们 还是(háishì) 按时(ànshí) 完成(wánchéng) 了。" (Despite the project being very complex, we still finished it on time.) This makes you sound capable and resilient in a Zoom meeting.
  • Commenting on a show you're streaming: "尽管(jǐnguǎn) 我 不 喜欢(xǐhuān) 这个 角色(juésè), 但是(dànshì) 演员(yǎnyuán) 演(yǎn) 得 很 好。" (Although I don't like this character, the actor's performance is really good.)
  • Justifying an online purchase: "尽管(jǐnguǎn) 我已经有三双白鞋了，但这双不一样！" (Even though I already have three pairs of white shoes, this pair is different!) We've all been there.
Basically, anytime life throws you a curveball and you hit it anyway, 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is the word you're looking for.

Common Mistakes

Everyone trips up when learning new grammar, it's totally normal. Here are a few common slip-ups with 尽管(jǐnguǎn) to watch out for. Forewarned is forearmed!
  1. 1Forgetting the partner word: A classic mistake is leaving the second clause hanging without a 但是(dànshì) or 还是(háishì). It feels incomplete in Chinese, like saying "Although it was raining..." and then just stopping.
  • ✗ Wrong: 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 他 很 忙(máng), 他 帮助(bāngzhù) 我。
  • ✓ Right: 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 他 很 忙(máng), 但是(dànshì) 他 还是(háishì) 帮助(bāngzhù) 我。 (Even though he's busy, he still helped me.)
  1. 1Using it for hypotheticals: 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is for true, factual situations. If you're talking about a hypothetical "if" scenario, you need to use 如果(rúguǒ) (if).
  • ✗ Wrong: 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 你 去(qù), 我 也 去(qù)。 (This sounds like "Even though you are going, I will also go," which is a fact.)
  • ✓ Right (for 'if'): 如果(rúguǒ) 你 去(qù), 我 也 去(qù)。 (If you go, I'll go too.)
  1. 1Treating it exactly like but: Sometimes a simple 但是(dànshì) is all you need. Using 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is about highlighting a stronger, more surprising contrast. If the contrast isn't that dramatic, using 尽管(jǐnguǎn) can feel a bit over the top, like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.
Don't worry if you make these mistakes at first. The most important one to fix is remembering to add the second connecting word. It’s like forgetting to put the patty in a hamburger.

Contrast With Similar Patterns

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: 虽然(suīrán). Both 尽管(jǐnguǎn) and 虽然(suīrán) translate to "although," and for a beginner, they can seem identical. And honestly, in many daily situations, you can use them interchangeably without anyone batting an eye.
But there is a subtle difference in flavor. Think of it like this:
  • 虽然(suīrán): This is your standard, everyday "although." It's neutral and very common in spoken Chinese. It just states a contrasting fact. It’s the vanilla ice cream of concessive conjunctions—reliable and always good.
  • 虽然(suīrán) 天气(tiānqì) 不 好, 但是(dànshì) 他 心情(xīnqíng) 很 好。 (Although the weather isn't good, he is in a good mood.)
  • 尽管(jǐnguǎn): This is "although" with a shot of espresso. It adds emphasis. It often implies a stronger sense of "despite the fact that..." or "in spite of..." It suggests the obstacle was significant, making the outcome more impressive or unexpected. It’s a bit more formal and carries more weight.
  • 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 天气(tiānqì) 不 好, 但是(dànshì) 他 心情(xīnqíng) 很 好。 (This feels more like: "Despite the bad weather, he's still in a good mood.")
So, which one to use? If you're just chatting, 虽然(suīrán) is your go-to. If you want to emphasize the contrast, make a stronger point, or sound a bit more formal (like in a presentation or a written report), 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is your friend.
It's like choosing between saying "but" and "nevertheless" in English. One is just a bit fancier.

Quick FAQ

Q

Can I use 尽管(jǐnguǎn) without 但是(dànshì) or 还是(háishì)?

It's technically possible in very literary or formal Chinese, but for learners (and in 99% of daily use), you should always include the partner word. It just sounds more natural and complete.

Q

Is 尽管(jǐnguǎn) common in texting?

Yes, but 虽然(suīrán) is probably more common for super casual stuff. You'd use 尽管(jǐnguǎn) if you really want to emphasize something, like, "尽管(jǐnguǎn) I'm broke, I'm still buying that concert ticket."

Q

What's the biggest difference between 尽管(jǐnguǎn) and 虽然(suīrán) again?

Emphasis. 尽管(jǐnguǎn) is stronger and highlights the challenge. 虽然(suīrán) is more of a neutral statement of fact. Think "despite" vs. "although."

Q

I heard 尽管(jǐnguǎn) can also mean "feel free to." Is that true?

Yes, you've got good ears! It has a second, less common meaning as an adverb. For example, 有(yǒu) 问题(wèntí) 尽管(jǐnguǎn) 问(wèn) means "If you have questions, feel free to ask." But at the A1 level, focus on the "even though" meaning first.

Formation of Concessive Clauses

Part 1 Connector Part 2 Contrast Marker
尽管
Subject + Verb
Subject + Verb
还是/依然
尽管
Fact
Unexpected Result
却/依然

Meanings

A conjunction used to introduce a fact that makes the subsequent clause seem surprising or contradictory.

1

Concession

Admitting a fact while highlighting a contrary outcome.

“{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}, {还是|háishì} {坚持|jiānchí} {工作|gōngzuò}.”

“{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {价格|jiàgé} {很|hěn} {贵|guì}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {买|mǎi} {了|le}.”

Reference Table

Reference table for Using 'jǐnguǎn' (尽管): How to Say 'Even Though' in Chinese
Form Structure Example
Standard
尽管 + Clause 1, Clause 2
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {累|lèi}, {他|tā} {工作|gōngzuò}.
With Marker
尽管 + Clause 1, 还是 + Clause 2
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {累|lèi}, {他|tā} {还是|háishì} {工作|gōngzuò}.
Subject First
Subject + 尽管 + Verb, Clause 2
{他|tā} {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {累|lèi}, {还是|háishì} {工作|gōngzuò}.
Negative
尽管 + 不 + Verb, Clause 2
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}, {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {了|le}.
Imperative
尽管 + Verb (Feel free to)
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {问|wèn}!
Formal
尽管 + Clause 1, 依然 + Clause 2
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {困难|kùnnán}, {依然|yīrán} {坚持|jiānchí}.

Formality Spectrum

Formal
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {依然|yīrán} {外出|wàichū}.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {依然|yīrán} {外出|wàichū}. (Daily life)

Neutral
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {要|yào} {出去|chūqù}.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {要|yào} {出去|chūqù}. (Daily life)

Informal
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {也|yě} {要|yào} {出去|chūqù}.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {也|yě} {要|yào} {出去|chūqù}. (Daily life)

Slang
{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {照样|zhàoyàng} {出去|chūqù}.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {照样|zhàoyàng} {出去|chūqù}. (Daily life)

The Logic of {尽管|jǐnguǎn}

尽管 (Even though)

Function

  • Contrast Opposing ideas
  • Concession Admitting a fact

Common Partners

  • 还是 Still
  • 依然 Nevertheless
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Examples by Level

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}, {我|wǒ} {学习|xuéxí}.

Even though I'm tired, I study.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {去|qù} {学校|xuéxiào}.

Even though it's raining, I go to school.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {贵|guì}, {我|wǒ} {买|mǎi} {了|le}.

Even though it's expensive, I bought it.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {晚|wǎn}, {他|tā} {来|lái} {了|le}.

Even though it's late, he came.

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {生病|shēngbìng}, {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {工作|gōngzuò}.

Even though he is sick, he still goes to work.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {路|lù} {很|hěn} {远|yuǎn}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {走|zǒu} {去|qù} {了|le}.

Even though the road is far, we still walked there.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {没|méi} {钱|qián}, {他|tā} {还是|háishì} {很|hěn} {快乐|kuàilè}.

Even though he has no money, he is still happy.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {难|nán}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {做|zuò} {完|wán} {了|le}.

Even though it's hard, I still finished it.

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {很多|hěnduō} {困难|kùnnán}, {我们|wǒmen} {依然|yīrán} {没有|méiyǒu} {放弃|fàngqì}.

Even though there are many difficulties, we still haven't given up.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {大家|dàjiā} {都|dōu} {反对|fǎnduì}, {他|tā} {还是|háishì} {坚持|jiānchí} {自己|zìjǐ} {的|de} {想法|xiǎngfǎ}.

Even though everyone opposes it, he still sticks to his ideas.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {时间|shíjiān} {很|hěn} {紧|jǐn}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {完成|wánchéng} {了|le} {任务|rènwu}.

Even though time is tight, we still finished the task.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {解释|jiěshì} {了|le}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {不|bù} {明白|míngbai}.

Even though he explained it, I still don't understand.

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {科技|kējì} {在|zài} {进步|jìnbù}, {有些|yǒuxiē} {传统|chuántǒng} {仍然|réngrán} {存在|cúnzài}.

Even though technology is advancing, some traditions still exist.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {证据|zhèngjù} {不足|bùzú}, {法官|fǎguān} {还是|háishì} {做|zuò} {出|chū} {了|le} {判决|pànjué}.

Even though the evidence is insufficient, the judge still made a ruling.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {市场|shìchǎng} {波动|bōdòng}, {公司|gōngsī} {业绩|yèjì} {依然|yīrán} {稳定|wěndìng}.

Even though the market is volatile, company performance remains stable.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {表现|biǎoxiàn} {得|de} {很|hěn} {冷静|lěngjìng}, {内心|nèixīn} {却|què} {很|hěn} {紧张|jǐnzhāng}.

Even though he appears calm, inside he is very nervous.

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {面临|miànlín} {巨大|jùdà} {压力|yālì}, {该|gāi} {企业|qǐyè} {依然|yīrán} {保持|bǎochí} {了|le} {高速|gāosù} {增长|zēngzhǎng}.

Even though facing huge pressure, the enterprise still maintained high growth.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {学术界|xuéshùjiè} {存在|cúnzài} {争议|zhēngyì}, {这|zhè} {项|xiàng} {理论|lǐlùn} {还是|háishì} {被|bèi} {广泛|guǎngfàn} {接受|jiēshòu} {了|le}.

Even though there is controversy in academia, this theory has been widely accepted.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {环境|huánjìng} {恶劣|èliè}, {生物|shēngwù} {依然|yīrán} {进化|jìnhuà} {出|chū} {了|le} {独特|dútè} {的|de} {生存|shēngcún} {机制|jīzhìzhì}.

Even though the environment is harsh, organisms have evolved unique survival mechanisms.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {政策|zhèngcè} {有所|yǒusuǒ} {调整|tiáozhěng}, {核心|héxīn} {目标|mùbiāo} {始终|shǐzhōng} {没有|méiyǒu} {改变|gǎibiàn}.

Even though the policy has been adjusted, the core goal has never changed.

1

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {历经|lìjīng} {沧桑|cāngsāng}, {这|zhè} {座|zuò} {古城|gǔchéng} {依然|yīrán} {保留|bǎoliú} {着|zhe} {往日|wǎngrì} {的|de} {风采|fēngcǎi}.

Even though it has experienced the vicissitudes of time, this ancient city still retains its former glory.

2

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {言者|yánzhě} {无意|wúyì}, {听者|tīngzhě} {却|què} {有心|yǒuxīn}, {这|zhè} {场|chǎng} {对话|duìhuà} {最终|zuìzhōng} {不欢而散|bùhuān'érsàn}.

Even though the speaker meant no harm, the listener took it to heart, and the conversation ended unhappily.

3

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {困难|kùnnán} {重重|chóngchóng}, {他|tā} {仍|réng} {以|yǐ} {大无畏|dàwúwèi} {的|de} {精神|jīngshén} {克服|kèfú} {了|le} {一切|yīqiè}.

Even though difficulties were numerous, he overcame everything with a fearless spirit.

4

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {外界|wàijiè} {纷扰|fēnrǎo}, {他|tā} {内心|nèixīn} {始终|shǐzhōng} {保持|bǎochí} {着|zhe} {一份|yīfèn} {宁静|níngjìng}.

Even though the outside world is chaotic, his heart always maintains a sense of tranquility.

Easily Confused

Using 'jǐnguǎn' (尽管): How to Say 'Even Though' in Chinese vs {尽管|jǐnguǎn} vs {虽然|suīrán}

Both mean 'although'. Learners don't know when to use which.

Using 'jǐnguǎn' (尽管): How to Say 'Even Though' in Chinese vs {尽管|jǐnguǎn} (conjunction) vs {尽管|jǐnguǎn} (adverb)

Learners see 'feel free to' and think it's a contrast.

Using 'jǐnguǎn' (尽管): How to Say 'Even Though' in Chinese vs {尽管|jǐnguǎn} + {但是|dànshì}

Learners use both in one sentence.

Common Mistakes

✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨}, {我们|wǒmen} {去|qù} {公园}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {公园}.

Missing contrast marker.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {我|wǒ} {累}, {我|wǒ} {睡觉}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {我|wǒ} {累}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {学习|xuéxí}.

The result must be unexpected.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {是|shì} {苹果}, {我|wǒ} {吃|chī}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {是|shì} {苹果}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {吃|chī} {了|le}.

Needs aspect marker.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {好}, {我|wǒ} {不|bù} {喜欢|xǐhuan}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {好}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {不|bù} {喜欢|xǐhuan}.

Missing degree adverb.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {贵}, {我|wǒ} {买|mǎi}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {贵}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {买|mǎi} {了|le}.

Missing aspect marker.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {去|qù}, {我|wǒ} {不|bù} {去|qù}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {去|qù}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {不|bù} {去|qù}.

Missing contrast marker.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨}, {我们|wǒmen} {去|qù} {爬山|páshān}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {爬山|páshān}.

Missing contrast marker.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {努力|nǔlì}, {但是|dànshì} {失败|shībài} {了|le}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {努力|nǔlì}, {还是|háishì} {失败|shībài} {了|le}.

Using 'dànshì' with 'jǐnguǎn' is redundant.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {聪明|cōngmíng}, {可是|kěshì} {不|bù} {学习|xuéxí}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {聪明|cōngmíng}, {还是|háishì} {不|bù} {学习|xuéxí}.

Redundant 'kěshì'.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}, {但是|dànshì} {没|méi} {时间|shíjiān}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}, {还是|háishì} {没|méi} {时间|shíjiān}.

Redundant 'dànshì'.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {是|shì} {专家|zhuānjiā}, {但|dàn} {也|yě} {犯错|fàncuò}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {是|shì} {专家|zhuānjiā}, {依然|yīrán} {会|huì} {犯错|fàncuò}.

Avoid 'dàn' with 'jǐnguǎn'.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {风险|fēngxiǎn}, {但|dàn} {我们|wǒmen} {要|yào} {做|zuò}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {风险|fēngxiǎn}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {要|yào} {做|zuò}.

Redundant 'dàn'.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {情况|qíngkuàng} {紧急|jǐnjí}, {但|dàn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {冷静|lěngjìng}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {情况|qíngkuàng} {紧急|jǐnjí}, {他|tā} {还是|háishì} {很|hěn} {冷静|lěngjìng}.

Redundant 'dàn'.
✗

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {但|dàn} {还是|háishì} {来|lái} {了|le}.

✓

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {还是|háishì} {来|lái} {了|le}.

Redundant 'dàn'.

Sentence Patterns

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} ___, {还是|háishì} ___.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} ___, {依然|yīrán} ___.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} ___, {却|què} ___.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} ___, {始终|shǐzhōng} ___.

Real World Usage

Social Media very common

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}, {还是|háishì} {要|yào} {打卡|dǎkǎ} {健身|jiànshēn}!

Texting common

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我们|wǒmen} {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {吧|ba}!

Job Interview common

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {我|wǒ} {没有|méiyǒu} {经验|jīngyàn}, {但|dàn} {我|wǒ} {学习|xuéxí} {能力|nénglì} {很|hěn} {强|qiáng}.

Travel occasional

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {票价|piàojià} {贵|guì}, {还是|háishì} {值得|zhídé} {去|qù} {看|kàn} {一眼|yīyǎn}.

Food Delivery occasional

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {晚|wǎn} {了|le}, {还是|háishì} {可以|kěyǐ} {点|diǎn} {外卖|wàimài}.

Academic Paper very common

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {数据|shùjù} {有限|yǒuxiàn}, {结论|jiélùn} {依然|yīrán} {可靠|kěkào}.

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💡

The 'No But' Rule

Never use {但是|dànshì} with {尽管|jǐnguǎn}. It's redundant and sounds unnatural to native speakers.
⚠️

Adverb vs Conjunction

Remember that {尽管|jǐnguǎn} can mean 'feel free to'. Check if there is a second clause to see if it's a conjunction.
🎯

Add '还是'

Adding {还是|háishì} or {依然|yīrán} in the second clause makes your sentence sound much more complete and native.
💬

Formal vs Informal

Use {虽然|suīrán} for casual chats and {尽管|jǐnguǎn} when you want to emphasize the difficulty of a situation.

Smart Tips

Use {尽管|jǐnguǎn} instead of {虽然|suīrán} to make the obstacle sound more significant.

{虽然|suīrán} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {了|le}. → {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {去|qù} {了|le}.

Pair {尽管|jǐnguǎn} with {依然|yīrán} for a professional, academic tone.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {问题|wèntí}, {还是|háishì} {可以|kěyǐ} {用|yòng}. → {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {问题|wèntí}, {依然|yīrán} {可以|kěyǐ} {使用|shǐyòng}.

Use {尽管|jǐnguǎn} as an imperative to show you are open and welcoming.

{你|nǐ} {可以|kěyǐ} {问|wèn} {我|wǒ}. → {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {问|wèn} {我|wǒ}!

Stop immediately! Remove the 'but' and use a contrast marker like {还是|háishì} instead.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {但是|dànshì} {他|tā} {来|lái} {了|le}. → {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {他|tā} {还是|háishì} {来|lái} {了|le}.

Pronunciation

jǐn-guǎn

Tone

jǐnguǎn: 3rd tone, 3rd tone. Keep the first tone clear.

Rising-Falling

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} (rising) ... (falling)

Conveys the contrast between the two clauses.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jin-Guan' as 'Just-Go-On'—even though there is an obstacle, you just go on.

Visual Association

Imagine a person walking through a heavy rainstorm (the 'fact') but holding a bright umbrella and smiling (the 'unexpected result').

Rhyme

Despite the rain or despite the pain, with {尽管|jǐnguǎn} you stay in the lane.

Story

Xiao Wang was tired. {尽管|jǐnguǎn} he was tired, he finished his homework. He felt proud because he didn't stop. Now he knows how to use {尽管|jǐnguǎn}!

Word Web

尽管虽然但是还是依然困难坚持

Challenge

Write 3 sentences using {尽管|jǐnguǎn} about things you do even when you don't feel like it.

Cultural Notes

Used frequently in formal speeches and news to show balanced viewpoints.

Often used in business contexts to show politeness while stating a firm position.

Used in Cantonese-influenced Mandarin to emphasize resilience in a fast-paced city.

Derived from classical Chinese, where 'jin' meant 'to exhaust' and 'guan' meant 'to manage'.

Conversation Starters

“

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {天气|tiānqì} {不好|bùhǎo}, {你|nǐ} {会|huì} {去|qù} {哪里|nǎlǐ}?

“

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {工作|gōngzuò} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {你|nǐ} {怎么|zěnme} {放松|fàngsōng}?

“

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {学习|xuéxí} {中文|zhōngwén} {很|hěn} {难|nán}, {你|nǐ} {为什么|wèishénme} {坚持|jiānchí} {下去|xiàqù}?

“

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {有|yǒu} {很多|hěnduō} {选择|xuǎnzé}, {你|nǐ} {为什么|wèishénme} {选|xuǎn} {了|le} {这个|zhège}?

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you were tired but still finished a task.
Write about a difficult goal you achieved.
Discuss a challenge in your city or country.
Reflect on a personal belief that others disagree with.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct contrast marker.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {他|tā} ___ {去|qù} {了|le} {聚会|jùhuì}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 还是
After {尽管|jǐnguǎn}, we need a contrast marker like {还是|háishì}.
Find the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {但是|dànshì} {我们|wǒmen} {去|qù} {了|le}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 但是
You cannot use {但是|dànshì} with {尽管|jǐnguǎn}.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Choose the best sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管很累，他还是工作。
This follows the correct structure: {尽管|jǐnguǎn} + [Fact], [Contrast Marker] + [Result].
Reorder the words to make a sentence. Sentence Building

{还是|háishì} / {尽管|jǐnguǎn} / {他|tā} / {累|lèi} / {工作|gōngzuò}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管他累，还是工作。
The conjunction {尽管|jǐnguǎn} must come first.
Match the first clause with the logical second clause. Match Pairs

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A: 还是买了 / B: 还是工作
Match the context of the first clause with the logical result.
Transform the sentence to use {尽管|jǐnguǎn}. Sentence Transformation

{虽然|suīrán} {很|hěn} {难|nán}, {但是|dànshì} {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {做|zuò} {了|le}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管很难，我还是做了。
Replace {虽然|suīrán} with {尽管|jǐnguǎn} and remove {但是|dànshì}.
What does {尽管|jǐnguǎn} mean in this sentence: '{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {问|wèn}!' Multiple Choice

What is the meaning?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Feel free to
When there is no second clause, it acts as an imperative.
Fill in the blank with the correct word.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {面临|miànlín} {挑战|tiǎozhàn}, {我们|wǒmen} ___ {保持|bǎochí} {信心|xìnxīn}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 依然
{依然|yīrán} is a formal contrast marker suitable for this context.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct contrast marker.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {忙|máng}, {他|tā} ___ {去|qù} {了|le} {聚会|jùhuì}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 还是
After {尽管|jǐnguǎn}, we need a contrast marker like {还是|háishì}.
Find the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {但是|dànshì} {我们|wǒmen} {去|qù} {了|le}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 但是
You cannot use {但是|dànshì} with {尽管|jǐnguǎn}.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Choose the best sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管很累，他还是工作。
This follows the correct structure: {尽管|jǐnguǎn} + [Fact], [Contrast Marker] + [Result].
Reorder the words to make a sentence. Sentence Building

{还是|háishì} / {尽管|jǐnguǎn} / {他|tā} / {累|lèi} / {工作|gōngzuò}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管他累，还是工作。
The conjunction {尽管|jǐnguǎn} must come first.
Match the first clause with the logical second clause. Match Pairs

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {贵|guì} - {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {很|hěn} {累|lèi}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A: 还是买了 / B: 还是工作
Match the context of the first clause with the logical result.
Transform the sentence to use {尽管|jǐnguǎn}. Sentence Transformation

{虽然|suīrán} {很|hěn} {难|nán}, {但是|dànshì} {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {做|zuò} {了|le}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管很难，我还是做了。
Replace {虽然|suīrán} with {尽管|jǐnguǎn} and remove {但是|dànshì}.
What does {尽管|jǐnguǎn} mean in this sentence: '{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {问|wèn}!' Multiple Choice

What is the meaning?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Feel free to
When there is no second clause, it acts as an imperative.
Fill in the blank with the correct word.

{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {面临|miànlín} {挑战|tiǎozhàn}, {我们|wǒmen} ___ {保持|bǎochí} {信心|xìnxīn}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 依然
{依然|yīrán} is a formal contrast marker suitable for this context.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

___他不喜欢吃蔬菜，___他还是吃了一点儿。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管...但是
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

{尽管|jǐnguǎn}我们迷路了，___我们最终还是找到了酒店。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 但
Which option is best? Multiple Choice

___下着大雨，我们还是决定去公园散步。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管
Which sentence makes the most sense? Multiple Choice

Select the most logical sentence:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {尽管|jǐnguǎn}我不饿，但是我吃了很多东西。
Find and correct the error in the sentence. Error Correction

她{虽然|suīrán}很聪明，尽管她不努力学习。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 她虽然很聪明，但是她不努力学习。
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Sentence Reorder

很贵 / ，/ 买了 / 尽管 / 还是 / 这双鞋 / 他

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管这双鞋很贵，他还是买了。
Put the words in the correct order. Sentence Reorder

但是 / 电影 / 很 / 这部 / 我 / 喜欢 / 尽管 / 长 / 很

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管这部电影很长，但是我还是很喜欢。
Translate the following sentence into Chinese. Translation

Even though he failed, he didn't give up.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管他失败了，但是他没有放弃。
How do you say this in Chinese? Translation

Despite the traffic jam, we arrived on time.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 尽管堵车，我们还是准时到达了。
Match the first half of the sentence with the correct second half. Match Pairs

Match the sentence parts.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No, that is a common mistake. They are redundant. Use one or the other, or better yet, use {尽管|jǐnguǎn} with {还是|háishì}.

It is more formal than {虽然|suīrán} but is used in both spoken and written Chinese. It is perfectly fine for daily conversation.

{虽然|suīrán} is softer and more common. {尽管|jǐnguǎn} emphasizes the obstacle more strongly.

Yes, it can mean 'feel free to' when used as an imperative, like '{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {说|shuō}' (Feel free to speak).

You can put it before or after {尽管|jǐnguǎn}. '{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {他|tā} {累|lèi}' or '{他|tā} {尽管|jǐnguǎn} {累|lèi}' are both correct.

It is highly recommended to include {还是|háishì} or {依然|yīrán} to make the sentence sound natural and complete.

Yes, it is very common in business to describe resilience despite market conditions.

Yes, it works for any tense. '{尽管|jǐnguǎn} {明天|míngtiān} {下雨|xiàyǔ}, {我|wǒ} {还是|háishì} {会|huì} {去|qù} {跑步|pǎobù}.'

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

Sign up free to practice

In Other Languages

Spanish high

Aunque

Chinese does not change verb forms based on mood.

French high

Bien que

French requires subjunctive; Chinese does not.

German moderate

Obwohl

German changes word order; Chinese does not.

Japanese moderate

～にもかかわらず

Japanese is head-final; Chinese is head-initial.

Arabic moderate

على الرغم من

Arabic is prepositional; Chinese is conjunctional.

Chinese high

虽然

Register and intensity.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
On the Contrary: Using {反而|fǎn'ér}
Next
Using `虽然...但是` (suīrán...dànshì) to Say "Although... But..."

Learn These First

A2 Builds On

Although... But... (虽然...但是...)

Overview Mastering correlative conjunctions is fundamental to expressing complex ideas in any language. In Chinese, the...

Continue With

C1 Builds On

Formal Concessions: Although, Admittedly, Indeed (虽然, 固然, 诚然)

Overview In persuasive communication, acknowledging an opponent's point before delivering your own can be a powerful rh...

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