megjithëse

Megjithëse is a conjunction in the Albanian language that means "although" or "even though." It introduces a concessive subordinate clause, expressing a contrast with the main clause that follows or precedes it.

In use, megjithëse introduces a clause whose content qualifies or limits what is stated in the main clause. For example: Megjithëse ishte i sëmurë, ai vazhdoi punën. This construction can appear at the beginning of a sentence or after the main clause, and the verb in the subordinate clause remains finite, as in other Albanian clauses.

Etymology and related forms: The standard spelling is megjithëse, a fused form built from me (with) and gjithës(e), a root related to gjithë/gjithë (all) plus a concessive suffix. The form mezgjithëse is a commonly observed misspelling, though not correct in standard Albanian. For synonyms or near-synonyms, speakers may also use edhe pse or pavarësisht që to express a similar concessive idea, with slight nuance in formality or emphasis.

Notes on usage: Megjithëse is most common in formal and written Albanian, but it also appears in everyday speech. It is paired with a main clause that states the expected outcome or consequence, while the subordinate clause presents the contrasting condition.

Examples:

- Megjithëse kishte dëborë të madhe, ata dolën për të shëtitur.

- Megjithëse ishte vonë, ajo arriti të përfundonte raportin.

See also: edhe pse, përkundër që, pavarësisht që.