HSK 7
即便⋯⋯ ，也⋯⋯
jí biàn ⋯ ⋯ ， yě ⋯ ⋯
即便⋯⋯ ，也⋯⋯ (Even if... , still...)
Explanation
"即便… ，也…" is a pair of conjunctions (a word or pair of words connecting clauses) forming a concessive compound sentence, emphasizing that no matter how the condition turns out, the result stays unchanged; it means "even if… still…".
即便 (jí biàn) + [hypothetical condition, whether or not] ，也 (yě) + [unchanged result]. "即便" states the concessive condition, and "也" in the following clause affirms the invariable result.
when arguing, advising, or emphasizing a conclusion that does not depend on conditions; "即便" leans toward written usage (used in books and formal texts, seldom in speech) and is formal.
"即便" is synonymous with "即使" (jíshǐ) and "哪怕" (nǎpà); "即便/即使" are more formal, while "哪怕" is more colloquial. The whole group usually goes with "也".
omitting "也" in the following clause (losing the concessive relationship); using "但是/可是" (expressing ordinary contrast) in place of "也" in the result clause, which contradicts the concessive logic of the pattern.
Examples
Even if your grades are good, you still must not be arrogant.
What filled his gaze, even if it was not being moved, was at least sympathy.
Practice
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Learn “即便⋯⋯ ，也⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “即便⋯⋯ ，也⋯⋯” (即便⋯⋯ ，也⋯⋯ (Even if... , still...)) is one of the key structures at HSK 7. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
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