Meaning
〜つつ has two main uses: ① it connects two actions happening simultaneously (similar to ながら but more formal); ② with も added, it expresses contrast or contradiction, meaning 'although' or 'despite.' The second usage often conveys regret or acknowledgment of conflicting thoughts or actions.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 動詞 | ます形 + つつ |
Examples
-
弁護士の仕事をやりつつ、大学で法律も教えている。
While working as a lawyer, he also teaches law at the university. -
市場調査の結果を分析しつつ、今後の問題点を明らかにしてみたいと思う。
While analyzing the results of the market research, I want to clarify future problems. -
自然や地球環境に配慮しつつ、来年この辺の土地を開発する予定です。
While considering nature and the environment, we plan to develop this land next year. -
昨夜の同窓会で久しぶりに会った友達と、酒を飲みつつ語り合った。
At the reunion last night, I drank and chatted with a friend I hadn't seen in ages. -
タバコは健康によくないと知りつつも、つい吸ってしまう。
Although I know smoking is bad for health, I can't help but smoke. -
夏休みがもうすぐ終わるので宿題を完成させなさいと思いつつも、なかなか進まない。
Although I think I should finish my homework before summer vacation ends, I'm making little progress. -
早く寝ようと思いつつ、インターネットで面白いドラマを見つけて、途中でやめられなくて、深夜2時まで見ていた。
Although I meant to go to bed early, I found an interesting drama online and couldn't stop watching until 2 AM. -
全身黒い服を着ている男が来て、怪しいなあと気になりつつも、入館証を持っているため、ゲートを通らせた。
Although I found it suspicious when a man dressed entirely in black arrived, since he had a visitor pass, I let him through the gate.
Summary
- 〜つつ expresses two simultaneous actions; more formal and literary than ながら
- 〜つつも shows contrast or contradiction, often implying regret or conflicting feelings
- Common in written or formal contexts; the も particle emphasizes the despite/although meaning