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March 24, 2026
即使jíshǐ(ji2shi3)
即使 (jíshǐ) is a conjunction meaning 'even if' or 'even though.' It is used to introduce a clause that presents a condition that does not alter the outcome, emphasizing resilience or persistence in the face of difficulties. Commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, it often precedes a contrasting or unexpected result.
Frequency#885DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The usage of 即使 reflects a cultural value in Chinese society that emphasizes perseverance and resilience, often seen in proverbs and literature that encourage facing challenges bravely.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person holding an umbrella, saying '即使 (jíshǐ)' it rains, I will go outside. The character '即' suggests immediacy (like taking action), while '使' can be visualized as making something happen. Together, they create a vivid image of determination regardless of circumstances.
Meanings of 即使
jíshǐ(ji2shi3)
1even if
2even though
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 即使
即使Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
连词连词conjunction (conj.)Part of Speech
#885Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 即使
Podcast: 即使
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AI Study Notes for 即使
Quick Contrast
即便 (jíbiàn) — use 即使 when emphasizing resilience despite difficulties, while 即便 is more neutral and can imply a hypothetical situation.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person holding an umbrella, saying '即使 (jíshǐ)' it rains, I will go outside. The character '即' suggests immediacy (like taking action), while '使' can be visualized as making something happen. Together, they create a vivid image of determination regardless of circumstances.
Usage Notes
即使 is often followed by a clause that presents a hypothetical or contrary situation. A common mistake is using it with the wrong tone or context, such as confusing it with '虽然' (suīrán), which is more about conceding a point. Remember to pair it with the correct verb tenses and subjects.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 即使 is useful for learners to express conditional statements. Connecting it with other conjunctions like '虽然' (suīrán) and '但是' (dànshì) will enhance your ability to construct complex sentences. Focus on practicing it in dialogues to gain fluency.
Cultural Note
The usage of 即使 reflects a cultural value in Chinese society that emphasizes perseverance and resilience, often seen in proverbs and literature that encourage facing challenges bravely.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 即使 with '虽然' (suīrán), using them interchangeably. For example, saying '即使我喜欢这本书，但是我不买' is incorrect; it should be '虽然我喜欢这本书，但是我不买.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 即使
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Grammar Patterns of 即使
即使 functions as a conjunction — it connects clauses or phrases. Many Chinese conjunctions come in pairs (虽然…但是…, 因为…所以…); use them at the front of the clauses they link. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Splitting the price six ways had still cost them each a bundle.
8
即使重量仅有1克的二十分之几都可能是关键性的。
jí shǐ zhòng liáng jǐn yǒu1 1 kè de èr shí fēn zhī jī dū kě néng shì guān jiàn xìng。
A few twentieths of a gram can be critical.
9
即使修正案获得通过，也有可能通过司法途径被废除。
jí shǐ xiū zhèng àn huò dé tōng guò， ， yě yǒu kě néng tōng guò sī fǎ tú jìng bèi fèi。
Even if the amendment is passed it can be defeated judicially.
10
即使是最有天赋的人也可能会被错误的导师摧毁自信。
jí shǐ shì zuì yǒu tiān fù de rén yě kě néng huì bèi cuò wù de dǎo shī cuī huǐ zì xìn。
Even the most gifted can have confidence destroyed by the wrong instructor.
Cultural Notes for 即使
🏮Cultural insight
The usage of 即使 reflects a cultural value in Chinese society that emphasizes perseverance and resilience, often seen in proverbs and literature that encourage facing challenges bravely.
Frequently Asked Questions about 即使
Yes, it can start a sentence to emphasize the condition, as in '即使下雨，我也要去.' (Even if it rains, I will go.)
No, while both express extremes, 即使 is used for conditions, whereas 甚至 indicates an unexpected result.
即使 emphasizes concession in the face of adversity, while 还是 suggests an alternative or a choice.
