Question 1

I usually translate пусть as 'let' (like 'let him go'). How does it mean 'even if' here?

Accepted Answer

In this structure, when пусть introduces a clause and the second clause starts with но (but) or всё же (still), it creates a concessive meaning. Instead of a command, it means 'granted that' or 'even if.' You are conceding a fact (the puppy is clumsy) to emphasize the contrast that follows.

Question 2

Could I use хотя (although) instead of пусть in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you could say хотя щенок неуклюжий, но... meaning 'Although the puppy is clumsy, he is still...'. However, пусть gives a slightly different rhetorical flavor. It sounds like you are actively conceding a point to someone: 'Alright, I'll give you that he is clumsy, but...'

Question 3

Why is there no verb like будет (will be) or есть (is) after пусть here?

Accepted Answer

Because this isn't a command or a wish for the future. It's a standard present-tense statement (щенок неуклюжий = the puppy is clumsy) where the present tense of 'to be' is naturally omitted. Пусть simply attaches to the front of this verbless clause to mean 'Granted that the puppy is clumsy...'

Question 4

Are очаровательный and милый just synonyms for 'cute'?

Accepted Answer

They are close but have distinct flavors. Милый is the standard word for 'sweet,' 'cute,' or 'dear.' Очаровательный is a stronger, more elevated word meaning 'charming' or 'enchanting' (from чары, meaning 'charms' or 'magic spells'). Using both emphasizes just how irresistible the puppy is despite his clumsiness.

Пусть щенок неуклюжий, но он очаровательный и милый.

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