aunque
Lemma Details
Translation: although; even though; even if; despite the fact that; though
Part of Speech: conjunction
Etymology: Aunque comes from the combination of 'aun' (even) and 'que' (that). 'Aun' derives from Latin 'adhuc' meaning 'until now' or 'even', while 'que' comes from Latin 'quod' or 'quid'. This construction parallels the English 'even though' where two elements combine to create a concessive conjunction.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Aunque no hablo bien español, puedo comunicarme.
Although I don't speak Spanish well, I can communicate.
Te quiero aunque me hayas mentido.
I love you even though you lied to me.
Aunque no lo creas, es verdad.
Even if you don't believe it, it's true.
Voy a salir aunque está lloviendo.
I'm going out even though it's raining.
Aunque sea difícil, lo intentaré.
Even if it's difficult, I'll try it.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'aunque' as 'aun' (even) + 'que' (that) = 'even that' which is close to 'even though'
- The 'que' in 'aunque' reminds you it introduces a clause, just like 'though' introduces a clause in English
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Aunque is one of the most frequently used conjunctions in Spanish, essential for expressing contrast between ideas. It's used in both formal and informal contexts and appears extensively in literature, everyday conversation, and academic writing.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Aunque' is a conjunction meaning 'although' or 'even though', while 'aún' is an adverb meaning 'still' or 'yet'.
Notes: 'Aún' can sometimes be part of the phrase 'aún cuando' which is similar to 'aunque' but emphasizes the temporal aspect.
Mnemonic: 'Aunque' has 'que' in it, which often introduces clauses, while 'aún' has an accent mark and stands alone as an adverb.
Explanation: 'Aunque' expresses contrast or concession, while 'así que' expresses consequence or result (meaning 'so' or 'therefore').
Notes: These conjunctions often create opposite logical relationships between clauses.
Mnemonic: Think of 'así que' as pointing forward to a result, while 'aunque' points to a contradiction.