とは言うものの【とはいうものの】

although, but, although i say, although it is said, having said that

AI-generated

Structure

[verb (plain form)] + とは言うものの

[i-adj (plain form)] + とは言うものの

[na-adj] + (だ) + とは言うものの

[noun] + (だ) + とは言うものの

[sentence] + 。とは言うものの、[sentence]

Description

とは言うものの is a formal conjunction meaning "having said that," "although," or "be that as it may." It acknowledges a preceding statement as true or valid, then introduces a contrasting reality or complication. The speaker concedes the first point but emphasizes that the situation is not so simple.

This expression is composed of と (quotative), は (topic marker), ゆう言う (to say), and ものの (although). Literally, it means something like "although one says that…" It can refer to something the speaker themselves has said, something generally acknowledged, or a situation that is technically true.

Basic usage

The clause before とは言うものの states a fact, opinion, or claim. The clause after it presents a contrasting reality.

、だっ。

Although I passed, it was by the narrowest of margins.

、。

Although spring has come, cold days continue.

Starting a sentence

とは言うものの is used at the beginning of a sentence to follow up on something just stated, functioning much like "having said that" or "that said" in English.

。、だろう。

Japanese is difficult. Having said that, if you study every day, you'll probably improve.

Nuance

Compared to the simpler ものの or けれども, とは言うものの carries a stronger nuance of concession – the speaker explicitly acknowledges a point before pivoting. It is commonly found in written language, essays, speeches, and formal conversation. In casual speech, とはいって言っても is a more natural alternative with a similar meaning.

、。

Although they say effort is important, there are limits without talent.

Examples

、。

Although I changed jobs, I still haven't gotten used to the new one.

、。

Although I started exercising for my health, it looks like I'll give up after three days.

、。

Although he apologized, it's doubtful whether he truly feels remorse.

、。

Although they say you can work freely, having an unstable income is a problem.

、。

Although technology has advanced, that doesn't mean human judgment is no longer needed.

、。

Although it's cheap, there's no point if the quality is bad.

、。

Although living alone is easy, there are times when I feel lonely.

、。

Although I passed the JLPT, there are still many expressions I don't know.

、。

Although the economy has recovered, small and medium-sized businesses haven't felt it yet.

。、。

The deadline is next week. Having said that, I haven't even finished half of it.

、。

Although I say I'm good at cooking, French cuisine is beyond me.

、。

Although there are opposing opinions, we have no choice but to move forward with this plan.

References

とは言うもののBunpro

とは比べものにならない

とみると