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とは言え (とはいえ) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
conjunction
though ; although ; nonetheless
usually written using kana alone
Concessive conjunction used to acknowledge a preceding statement while introducing a contrasting or qualifying point. Often translated as 'that said' or 'having said that'.
Similar words しかし A simple 'but' or 'however'; とはいえ is more concessive, acknowledging the previous point before adding a counterpoint.
それでも Means 'even so' or 'nevertheless'; とはいえ is slightly more formal and often used in written or structured speech.
Etymology From the quotative particle と, the topic particle は, and the verb 言う (to say), literally 'even if one says that'. The kana form とはいえ is standard.
This plan isn't perfect. Nonetheless, it's the best we have right now.