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JLPT N2 Formal

〜tsutsu

Shows two actions happening simultaneously or a contrast; 'while', 'although'.

Literary version of ながら; can also carry a contrastive nuance ("while, even though").

Formation

Explanation

The ～つつ grammar point is used to express two actions occurring simultaneously, or to show a contrast between an ongoing action and another factor. It can be translated as 'while' or 'although.' It is attached to a verb in its stem form.

Example sentences

  • He was doing his homework while watching TV.

    Kare wa terebi o mitsutsu, shukudai o shite imashita.

  • Although I feel busy these days, I still exercise every day.

    Saikin isogashii to omoi tsutsu, mainichi undō o tsuzukete imasu.

  • She was crying, yet she said goodbye with a smile on her face.

    Kanojo wa naki tsutsu, egao de wakare o tsugeta.

  • He continued walking even though he was getting soaked by the rain.

    Ame ni nure tsutsu, kare wa aruki tsuzukemashita.

Simultaneous (While Doing)