〜つつ（も）
JLPT N2
Pattern
- Vます形 + つつ（も）
Explanation
Expresses a contrast between what one thinks or knows and what one does. Often used when the speaker does something while being aware of a conflicting thought or feeling.
Usage
Often used with verbs expressing mental activity (e.g., think, know, say). The subject in both clauses is the same. Common in written language.
Formation
Attach to the ます-stem of verbs.
Examples
健康に悪いと知りつつも、夜遅くまでゲームをしてしまう。
けんこうにわるいとしりつつも、よるおそくまでゲームをしてしまう。Even though I know it's bad for my health, I end up playing games late into the night.
彼の話を信じつつ、どこかで疑っている自分がいる。
かれのはなしをしんじつつ、どこかでうたがっているじぶんがいる。Although I believe his story, part of me still doubts it.
謝らなければいけないと分かりつつも、言い出せなかった。
あやまらなければいけないとわかりつつも、いいだせなかった。Though I knew I had to apologize, I couldn’t bring myself to say it.
