Aunque llueve, salimos a caminar.
English: Even though it rains, we go out for a walk.
- Language
- Spanish
- Level
- B2
- Unit
- Oraciones complejas y subordinadas
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Spanish, 'oraciones concesivas' are sentences that express a contrast or difficulty, but the main action still happens. They are similar to saying 'even though' or 'although' in English.
When to use it
Use these structures when you want to show that something happens despite a problem, obstacle, or contrary situation.
Key forms
- aunque + indicativo/subjuntivo
- a pesar de que + indicativo/subjuntivo
- por más que + subjuntivo/indicativo
- por mucho que + subjuntivo
Examples
A pesar de que estaba cansado, terminó su trabajo.
English: Despite being tired, he finished his work.
Por más que estudies, este examen es difícil.
English: No matter how much you study, this exam is hard.
Por mucho que lo intentes, no podrás convencerme.
English: No matter how much you try, you won't convince me.
Tips
- Use the subjunctive when the situation is hypothetical or not confirmed.
- Use the indicative when the situation is real or known.
- Be careful with 'aunque': it can use both indicative and subjunctive, depending on the meaning.
Exceptions and edge cases
- Sometimes, 'aunque' with indicative or subjunctive changes the meaning: indicative for facts, subjunctive for unknown or hypothetical situations.