即使 (jí shǐ) — even if, even though (marks hypothetical conces…

Definition

Marks a hypothetical or conceded condition ('even if') — pairs naturally with 也 in the result clause. Stronger/more hypothetical than 虽然 (which states a real fact), and slightly more formal than the spoken 就算.

conjunction

even ifeven though (marks hypothetical concession)

Examples

即使，。
jí shǐ Nǐ bù shuō, wǒ yě zhī dào.
Even if you don't say it, I still know.
即使，。
jí shǐ Míng tiān guā fēng, wǒ men yě yào qù gōng yuán.
Even if it's windy tomorrow, we still have to go to the park.
即使，。
jí shǐ Kǎo shì hěn nán, tā yě bú huì fàng qì.
Even if the exam is very hard, he won't give up.

Origin

Compound word

构词法gòucífǎ

联合liánhéCoordinate

Two parts of equal weight, alike or opposite in meaning, standing side by side.

即jíeven

使shǐif

即 and 使 both carry the sense of a hypothetical concession, giving 'even if'.

Characters in this word

Two or more meaningful parts placed together so that their meanings combine into a new one.

皀皀jíancient round-mouthed food vessel
卩卩jiéto kneel

即 pairs 皀 (an ancient round-mouthed food vessel) with 卩 (to kneel), showing someone kneeling near the vessel to eat, so it means to come near or approach.

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Most characters — around four in five — are built this way: one part hints at the meaning, the other at the pronunciation.

亻吏使

Meaning part形符xíngfú

亻Written in full as人rén

Sound part声符shēngfú

吏

吏lì使shǐ

Close in sound todayThe sound part was a clue two thousand years ago — it often still helps, but not always.

使 pairs 亻 (person) with 吏, which pictures a hand holding something like a flag, giving the sense of a representative or ambassador.

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