JLPT N1 reference · Concession and restriction
ながらも
It concedes a state or limitation while emphasizing a contrasting action or result.
Core meaning and form
Attach ながらも to a verb stem, adjective, or noun-like predicate. This concessive pattern differs from simultaneous-action ながら and is more written.
- Form: Attach ながらも to a verb stem, adjective, or noun-like predicate.
- Core use: It concedes a state or limitation while emphasizing a contrasting action or result.
- Context: This concessive pattern differs from simultaneous-action ながら and is more written.
Examples in context
小さいながらも、よくできた会社だ。Chiisai nagara mo, yoku dekita kaisha da.Though small, it is a well-run company.
困難だと知りながらも挑戦した。Konnan da to shirinagara mo chōsen shita.Although she knew it would be difficult, she tried.
不便ながらも、この町が好きだ。Fuben nagara mo, kono machi ga suki da.Though inconvenient, I like this town.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Attach ながらも to a verb stem, adjective, or noun-like predicate.
- It concedes a state or limitation while emphasizing a contrasting action or result.
- This concessive pattern differs from simultaneous-action ながら and is more written.