Module 13 - Concessive Clauses

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Concessive Clauses |

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Concessive Clauses

Concessive clauses are dependent clauses that indicate that the action of the dependent clause happens despite circumstances that appear to hinder it. There are a number of words that can introduce concessive clauses (quamvis, licet, quamquam, cum), which usually are translated as “although”, “even thought”, or “and yet.” Additionally, there are certain words that appear in the independent clause, such as tamen (“nevertheless”), that indicate that its action are at odds with the circumstances of the dependent clause These clauses can take either the indicative or the subjunctive.

Quamquam (although) always takes the indicative and introduces an admitted fact.

• Quamquam senex non fortis erat, tamen magnā sapientiā regnavit. (Although the old man was not strong, he nevertheless ruled with great wisdom.)

Quamvis (although, lit. as much as you wish) always takes the subjunctive.

• Quamvis difficilis esset, tamen linguam Latinam facile didicit. (Although it was difficult, she nevertheless learned the Latin language easily.)

Licet (although, lit. it is granted) is used with the present or perfect subjunctive.

• Licet omnēs horribilēs mē petiverint, Roma valet. (Although all the horrible things attack me, Rome remains strong.)

Cum clauses that feature a subjunctive verb can indicate concession. In these cases, we translate cum as “although.” Frequently

• Cum puerum amaret, tamen ex urbe abiit. (Although he loved the girl, he nevertheless left the city.)

Note in the sentence above, it would not make any sense if you translate it anything other than “although.”

Once again, if there is a concessive clause in indirect statement, the concessive clause will always have a subjunctive verb.

Practice Opportunities

Find the concessive clause and then translate the sentence.

1. Quamquam Romani fessi erant, tamen hostes oppugnaverunt. Click here to toggle the answer: “quamquam Romani fessi erant; Although the Romans were tired, they nevertheless attacked the enemies.”

2. Quamvis sit magna exspectatio, eam vinces. Click here to toggle the answer: “quamvis sit magna exspectatio; Although the expectation is great, you will surpass (lit. conquer) it.”

3. Cum te semper amaverim, hodie meliori amore amo. Click here to toggle the answer: “cum te semper amaverim; Although I have always loved you, today I love you today with a greater love.”

4. Licet meliora carmina femina scribat, tamen ad ludos vir delectus est. Click here to toggle the answer: “Licet meliora carmina femina scribat; Although the woman writes better poetry, a man was chosen for the games.”