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Expressing "although" with 虽然 (suīrán)
HSK 3Structure
虽然 + Statement, 但是/可是 + Contrasting Statement
Explanation
虽然 (suīrán) is used to express "although" or "even though," introducing a concession that is followed by a contrasting result. It is typically paired with 但是 (dànshì) or 可是 (kěshì) in the second clause to complete the "although… but…" structure. The 虽然 clause states a fact or condition, while the second clause presents the unexpected or contrasting outcome.
Examples
虽然今天下雨了，但是我还是出去跑步了。
suīrán jīntiān xià yǔ le, dànshì wǒ háishì chūqù pǎobù le.
Although it rained today, I still went out for a run.
虽然他很忙，可是每天都会给妈妈打电话。
suīrán tā hěn máng, kěshì měitiān dōu huì gěi māma dǎ diànhuà.
Although he is very busy, he calls his mom every day.
虽然这道菜看起来简单，但是做起来很费时间。
suīrán zhè dào cài kàn qǐlái jiǎndān, dànshì zuò qǐlái hěn fèi shíjiān.
Although this dish looks simple, it takes a lot of time to make.