即使
jí shǐ HSK 4

English Meaning

📚 Example Sentences

即使下雨,我也要去。
Jíshǐ xiàyǔ, wǒ yě yào qù.
Even if it rains, I will still go.
即使很忙,他也学习。
Jíshǐ hěn máng, tā yě xuéxí.
Even though he is busy, he still studies.
即使贵,我也买。
Jíshǐ guì, wǒ yě mǎi.
Even if it's expensive, I will buy it.
即使下雨,我也去。
Jíshǐ xiàyǔ, wǒ yě qù.
Even if it rains, I will go.
即使贵,我也买。
Jíshǐ guì, wǒ yě mǎi.
Even if it's expensive, I will buy it.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: 即 (jí) can mean 'namely' or 'even,' and 使 (shǐ) means 'to make' or 'to cause.' Think: 'Even if it causes [something], still...' This links to its function of introducing a condition that doesn't change the outcome.

📝 Usage Notes

Used in both spoken and written Chinese, across formal and informal contexts. Common in persuasive or explanatory language to highlight resilience or determination, such as in arguments, motivational speech, or hypothetical scenarios.

📖 Grammar Points

Typically used in the pattern '即使 + condition, 也 + result,' where 也 emphasizes the unchanged outcome. Example: 即使下雨,我们也要去。 (Even if it rains, we will still go.)

🏯 Cultural Notes

Reflects a cultural value of perseverance and resilience, often used to express determination or unwavering stance in the face of challenges.

🔄 Similar Words

虽然 (suīrán) means 'although' for factual concessions, while 即使 is for hypothetical ones. 尽管 (jǐnguǎn) is closer to 'even though' and can be used for both factual and hypothetical cases, but 即使 is more emphatic on the hypothetical aspect.

Master this word with quizzes, flashcards & more

Learn 即使 in CILI →

Related Words