即便 jíbiàn even if
even if; even though; right away; immediately
How to remember 即便: 即 promptly + 便 convenient = even if.
Characters
How it is used
- A conjunction meaning 'even if', introducing a hypothetical concession - 即便失败，也要尝试 (jíbiàn shībài, yě yào chángshì) even if we fail, we should try.
- Interchangeable with 即使 (jíshǐ); typically paired with 也 (yě) in the main clause.
- Slightly more literary/formal than 就算 (jiùsuàn). Do not confuse with the 'immediately' sense, which is rare and archaic.
Example sentences
- 即便是小孩子也能做到呢。 Jíbiàn shì xiǎoháizi yě néng zuòdào ne.Even a child can do it.