The adverb 固然 is used to acknowledge a fact or truth before presenting a contrasting or additional point. It often translates as "admittedly" or "it is true that" in English. It usually appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause.
Common Collocations
固然...但是...: Admittedly... but... — used to concede a point while introducing a contrasting idea.
固然...也...: Admittedly... also... — used to acknowledge a fact while adding another related point.
Nuance and Register
固然 carries a formal tone and is common in written and formal spoken Chinese. It signals a balanced argument or concession, often in discussions or debates.
Avoiding Confusion
Do not confuse 固然 with 虽然 or 尽管, which also mean "although" but are more neutral and less formal. 固然 emphasizes the admitted truth before contrasting it, often implying a stronger concession.
