Conjunction 尽管 (

This grammar point acts like a bridge. It connects two different ideas. The first idea is a fact or a situation. The second idea is the result or reaction. Usually, the result is the opposite of what people expect. If a shirt is expensive, you usually don't buy it. But if you buy it anyway, use 尽管. It sets the stage for the "but" in your sentence. It prepares the listener for a twist. You are saying, "Ignore the first part, the second part happened anyway." It is like a grammar plot twist. It keeps your conversations interesting and clear.

1. 1Using 尽管 is like following a simple recipe. Just follow these steps:
2. 2Start with 尽管 at the beginning of the first clause.
3. 3State the fact or the obstacle right after it.
4. 4Add a comma to catch your breath.
5. 5Start the second clause with 但是, 可是, or 还是.
6. 6State the surprising result or the final action.
7. 7The basic formula looks like this:
8. 8尽管 + [Fact], [But/Still] + [Result].
9. 9Example: 尽管很累 (Even though I'm tired), 但是我要学习 (but I want to study).

Use 尽管 when you want to emphasize a contradiction. It works great in many real-world scenarios. Use it when ordering food if something is pricey but tasty. Use it in job interviews to show you work hard despite challenges. Use it when giving directions if a path is long but easy. It is perfect for talking about the weather. "Even though it's cold, I'll eat ice cream." It is also great for talking about hobbies. "Even though I'm bad at guitar, I love playing." It adds flavor to your daily stories. It makes your Chinese sound more natural and expressive.

Do not use 尽管 for simple lists. If you like apples and bananas, just use 和. Do not use it if there is no conflict. If it is sunny and you are happy, 尽管 feels weird. It needs that "clash" between two ideas. Also, avoid using it without a transition word in the second part. While native speakers sometimes skip 但是, you should keep it. It helps keep your meaning crystal clear. Don't use it to mean "only." It is strictly for "even though" situations. Think of it like a spicy sauce. You only use it when you want that specific kick.

Many people forget the second half of the bridge. They say 尽管 but forget 但是. This leaves the listener hanging. It feels like a movie that ends too soon. Another mistake is putting 尽管 in the wrong spot. It usually goes before the subject or right at the start. Don't put it at the very end of the sentence. That just doesn't work in Chinese. Some people also confuse it with 如果 (if). Remember, 尽管 is for things that are actually happening. 如果 is for things that might happen. Don't worry, even native speakers mess this up sometimes! Just keep practicing and you will get it.

You might know 虽然 (suīrán). Both mean "although." So, what is the difference? Think of 虽然 as your everyday, casual friend. It is very common and soft. 尽管 is like the more serious, formal cousin. It carries more weight and emphasis. Use 虽然 for light topics like the weather. Use 尽管 when you really want to highlight the obstacle. It is like the difference between "but" and "nevertheless." Also, 尽管 can sometimes mean "feel free to" in other contexts. But for now, just focus on the "even though" meaning. It is the most useful one for you today.