To admit a flaw while highlighting something's overall value ("even if" or "granted that"), use a concessive clause.
In Russian, this is done with the interchangeable particles пусть and пускай.
To build the sentence:
- Begin the first clause with пусть or пускай to acknowledge the limitation.
- Begin the second clause with но (but) to introduce the redeeming quality.
To emphasize that the positive trait remains true despite the drawback, add всё же (still) to the second clause.
| still | всё же |
| Even if this computer often acts up, it still works. | Пусть этот компьютер часто барахлит, но он всё же работает. |
| Granted that this book is shabby, the fairy tale is charming! | Пускай эта книга потрёпанная, но сказка очаровательная! |
Contrasting Characteristics
This structure is perfect for reviewing objects or situations, contrasting a negative trait in the first half of the sentence with a positive one in the second.
| Granted that grandfather is eighty years old, he is still strong. | Пускай дедушке восемьдесят лет, но он всё же сильный. |
| Even if the printer is bulky, it is reliable and fast. | Пусть принтер громоздкий, но он безотказный и быстрый. |
To acknowledge multiple flaws at once, use и ..., и ... (both ... and ...) in the first clause before delivering the good news.
| Even if this sofa is both shabby and bulky, it is still roomy. | Пусть этот диван и потрёпанный, и громоздкий, но он всё же вместительный. |
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