诚然…然而…
true, …; however, …: conceding before you rebut
Structure
诚然 对方的理由 ， 然而／但 自己的观点
What it means
True, …; however, …: concede the other side’s point first, then rebut it with your own.
How it is built
诚然，other side’s point；然而／但 + your view: 诚然，这个计划成本很高，但从长远看是值得的 (Admittedly the plan is costly, but in the long run it is worth it).
When to use it
Formal argument and essays. The concession family, in falling order of weight: 诚然, 固然, 虽然, 虽说. 诚然 often opens the sentence with a comma after it.
Watch out
In this pattern a turn must follow: ✗ 诚然，他说得对。(full stop) ✓ 诚然，他说得对，然而…. In casual speech, 虽然…但是… is enough.
Examples
诚然，对方的观点有一定的道理；然而，它也有明显的局限。
True, the opposing view has some merit; however, it also has clear limits.
诚然，这个计划成本很高，但从长远看是值得的。
Admittedly the plan is costly, but in the long run it is worth it.
Learn this in Lesson 108 · HSK 7–9: 怎样把道理讲清楚 (Building an argument)
A dialogue, a reading, word cards with audio and a drill that uses it, in Learn Chinese with Bao. The first lessons of every level are free.
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