zwar
indeed
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Definition & meaning
The word "zwar" is a modal particle or conjunction used to introduce a concession. It is almost always used in combination with a following "aber" (but) or "doch" (however/yet) to structure a sentence in two parts:
- Concession: It acknowledges a fact or a statement as true, usually to prepare the listener for a contrasting point. It is often translated as "it is true that," "admittedly," or "to be sure."
- Example: "Er ist zwar alt, aber sehr fit." (He is admittedly old, but very fit.)
- Specification: It can also be used to introduce a specific clarification or further detail regarding a previously mentioned term.
- Example: "Ich habe ein neues Auto gekauft, und zwar einen Sportwagen." (I bought a new car, specifically a sports car.)
Grammar & Word origin
Grammatically, "zwar" acts as an adverbial conjunction. It is typically positioned after the verb in the first clause. It is derived from Middle High German "ze ware," which literally means "in truth" (zu wahr). It functions as a particle that directs the listener's focus toward the upcoming contrast or clarification.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- allerdings (admittedly/however)
- gewiss (certainly)
- freilich (of course/admittedly)
- nämlich (namely - when used for specification)
Antonyms:
There are no direct antonyms for "zwar," as its function is dependent on the structure of the sentence. However, it is fundamentally opposed to conjunctions that express direct agreement without reservation, such as:
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Examples
Das Buch ist zwar teuer, doch es lohnt sich.adverb
The book is indeed expensive, but it is worth it.
Er kommt zwar spät, jedoch pünktlich zur Besprechung.adverb
He indeed arrives late, but punctually for the meeting.
Das Wetter ist zwar kalt, aber sonnig.adverb
The weather is indeed cold, but sunny.
Das Spiel ist zwar unterhaltsam, aber auch sehr komplex.adverb
The game is indeed entertaining, but also very complex.
Er hat zwar viel Erfahrung, doch er lernt immer noch gerne dazu.adverb
He does have a lot of experience, but he still likes to learn.
Er ist zwar reich, doch nicht glücklich.adverb
He is indeed rich, but not happy.
Er hat zwar Hunger, möchte aber jetzt nichts essen.adverb
He is indeed hungry, but does not want to eat anything right now.
Zwar war der Film lang, aber er war sehr spannend.Word type unavailable
The film was indeed long, but it was very exciting.
Ich bin zwar müde, möchte aber noch lesen.Word type unavailable
I am indeed tired, but I still want to read.
Wir haben zwar wenig Zeit, aber wir schaffen das.Word type unavailable
We have indeed little time, but we can do it.
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