Meaning and Usage
The word "たとえ" is a conjunction used to introduce a hypothetical or concessive clause, similar to "even if" or "no matter" in English. It emphasizes that the outcome or main clause remains true regardless of the condition stated.
Common Patterns
- たとえ + verb (て-form) + も: Used to express "even if" something happens.
- たとえ + adjective + くても: Used with adjectives to mean "even if it is..."
Nuance and Register
"たとえ" is often used in both spoken and written Japanese to stress determination or to highlight that a condition will not change the speaker's intention or situation. It is polite and neutral in tone.
Common Collocations
- たとえ〜ても: "even if..."
- たとえ失敗しても: "even if you fail"
- たとえ雨が降っても: "even if it rains"
Learner Tips
A common mistake is to confuse "たとえ" with "もし". While both can mean "if," "たとえ" is stronger and used to emphasize that the condition will not affect the result. Remember to use "たとえ" when you want to stress the hypothetical nature and the speaker's resolve.