Definition

1. Conjunction:
   • Although, though, even though: "mặc dầu" is used to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses a contrast or concession. It indicates that something is true or happens despite another fact or situation.
   • Despite the fact that: It connects two clauses where the main clause holds true even when the subordinate clause presents an opposing circumstance.

Usage Examples

• Conjunction:
  • Mặc dầu trời mưa, chúng tôi vẫn đi dạo. (Although it was raining, we still went for a walk.)
  • Anh ấy vẫn cười, mặc dầu trong lòng rất buồn. (He still smiled, even though he was very sad inside.)
  • Tôi sẽ thử, mặc dầu cơ hội thành công rất thấp. (I will try, despite the fact that the chance of success is very low.)

Advanced Usage

• "mặc dầu vậy" / "mặc dầu thế": even so, nevertheless, nonetheless. This phrase is used to start a new sentence, conceding a previous point but introducing a contrasting main point.
  • Trời rất lạnh. Mặc dầu vậy, họ vẫn quyết định đi cắm trại. (The weather is very cold. Even so, they still decided to go camping.)

Variants and Related Words

• Mặc dù: This is the more common and modern variant of "mặc dầu". Their meanings and usage are identical. "Mặc dù" is preferred in contemporary writing and speech.
  • Mặc dù bận rộn, cô ấy luôn dành thời gian cho gia đình. (Although busy, she always makes time for her family.)
• Dù: A shorter, more informal conjunction with a similar meaning of "although" or "even if".
  • Dù khó khăn, chúng ta không được bỏ cuộc. (Even if it's difficult, we must not give up.)

Synonyms

• Tuy: although, though (often used in the structure "tuy... nhưng...").
• Cho dù: even if, even though (emphasizes a strong concession).

Related Phrases

• Bất chấp: This is a preposition meaning "in spite of", "despite", or "regardless of". It is followed by a noun phrase, not a full clause like "mặc dầu".
  • Bất chấp nguy hiểm, anh ấy vẫn lao vào cứu người. (Despite the danger, he rushed in to save people.)

1. although; though; despite of