Conjunction
/aun'ke/
"Aunque" is a conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause expressing a contrast, concession, or limit to the main statement. It is commonly used to articulate a situation where something occurs despite other conditions that might suggest otherwise. It is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, although its nuanced implications are more commonly explored in written discourse.
Aunque estaba cansado, decidió ir a la fiesta.
Although he was tired, he decided to go to the party.
No me gusta el café, aunque a mucha gente le encanta.
I don't like coffee, though many people love it.
Ella lo intentó, aunque sabía que era difícil.
She tried, even though she knew it was difficult.
"Aunque" is often part of idiomatic expressions in Spanish that convey contrast or concession. Here are a few examples:
Aunque las apariencias engañan.
Although appearances can be deceiving.
Aunque duela, es la verdad.
Even though it hurts, it is the truth.
Aunque el camino sea largo, vale la pena.
Though the journey may be long, it is worth it.
Te seguiré aunque me digas que pare.
I will follow you even if you tell me to stop.
Aunque no lo creas, es posible.
Although you may not believe it, it is possible.
Aunque todo parezca perdido, no te rindas.
Even though everything seems lost, don't give up.
The word "aunque" comes from the Old Spanish "a un que," which translates to "to a one that." It is composed of "a," meaning "to," and "un," meaning "one," combined with "que," meaning "that." The evolution of the term reflects its current use in expressing concession and contrast.
Synonyms: - A pesar de que (despite the fact that) - Si bien (if well)
Antonyms: - Porque (because) - Ya que (since)
"Aunque" is a versatile conjunction that plays a significant role in Spanish grammar and expression, frequently used to convey nuanced relationships between ideas and situations.