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~Koso Are: There May Be... But

Learn koso are for "there may be A, but B" — acknowledging without undermining. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn koso are for "there may be A, but B" — acknowledging without undermining.
  • Form and connection: [Noun] こそあれ
  • Nuance in real use: こそあれ is an elegant concession — it lets the speaker first acknowledge negatives, then firmly turn to the positive. This "there's hardship, but it's worth it" expression is common in Japanese workplace and life reflections.

Form and connection

[Noun] こそあれ

Core Explanation

Learn koso are for "there may be A, but B" — acknowledging without undermining.

Cultural Note

こそあれ is an elegant concession — it lets the speaker first acknowledge negatives, then firmly turn to the positive. This "there's hardship, but it's worth it" expression is common in Japanese workplace and life reflections.

Practical examples

There may be hardships, but it's rewarding.
There may be criticism, but support is strong.
It may take time, but I want to do quality work.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Noun] こそあれ
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerThere may be hardships, but it's rewarding.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer時間じかんこそあれ、質しつの高たかい仕事しごとをしたい。 ([Noun] こそあれ)

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