Definition

Adverb: A transitional word used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea that follows from or exists despite what was just mentioned. It is equivalent to "nevertheless," "however," or "even so" in English, indicating a concession or an unexpected continuation.

Usage

• Position in Sentence: Typically used at the beginning of a clause or sentence to connect it to the previous statement.
• Function: Signals a contrast, often introducing a fact, opinion, or outcome that is surprising or contradictory in light of the preceding information.

Usage Examples

• (The weather is very bad. Nevertheless, we still decided to set off.)
• (She tried her best. However, the result was still not as expected.)
• (The project has many risks. Even so, we believe in its potential.)

Advanced Usage

• Formal Contrast: Often found in formal writing, speeches, or structured arguments to present a counterpoint gracefully.
  • Lý thuyết có vẻ hoàn hảo. Tuy thế, thực tế áp dụng lại phức tạp hơn nhiều. (The theory seems perfect. Nevertheless, its practical application is far more complex.)
• Concessive Function: Emphasizes that the action in the second clause occurs despite the obstacle mentioned in the first.
  • Anh ta không được đào tạo bài bản. Tuy thế, anh ấy là một chuyên gia rất giỏi. (He did not receive formal training. Nevertheless, he is a very skilled expert.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tuy vậy (adv): A very common and nearly identical synonym. "Tuy thế" and "tuy vậy" are often interchangeable, though "tuy vậy" might be slightly more frequent in modern usage.
• Tuy nhiên (adv): The most common and neutral word for "however." It is used in both spoken and written language.
• Thế nhưng (adv): Another common synonym for "but" or "however," with a similar contrasting function.
• Dù vậy (adv): Equivalent to "even so" or "all the same," emphasizing the persistence of the second point.

Synonyms

• Tuy nhiên: however
• Thế nhưng: but, however
• Dù vậy / Dù thế: even so, all the same
• Song: however, yet (more literary or formal)

Notes on Different Meanings

• Single Word Focus: "Tuy thế" functions solely as a conjunctive adverb. It does not have meanings as separate words "tuy" (although, despite) and "thế" (that, so) when used in this fixed compound form. Its core meaning is the concessive contrast.

adv

1. nevertheless