それでも

• Reading: それでも
• Romaji: soredemo
• Pronunciation: /so.ɾe.de.mo/

Meaning

But still; and yet; nevertheless; even so. A conjunction expressing persistence despite a contrary situation.

A conjunction used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or persists despite what was just said. Stronger than でも (demo) in emphasising the speaker's determination or the surprising nature of the continuation. Very common in both casual and formal speech.

Examples

1. 雨が降っていた。それでも彼は走り続けた。 It was raining. Even so, he kept on running.
2. 何度失敗した。それでも諦めなかった。 He failed many times. And yet he never gave up.
3. 危険だと分かっていた。それでも行くと決めた。 He knew it was dangerous. But still, he decided to go.

Usage Guide

Context: narratives, conversation, persuasion

Tone: determined

Origin & History

Composed of それ (that) + で (particle) + も (even/also). Literally 'even with that,' expressing continuation despite a stated circumstance.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal