Embora and Mesmo Que: Subjunctive After “Although” and “Even If”
These connectors introduce a contrast or an uncertain condition. Learn the present subjunctive forms you will hear in everyday examples.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Embora means “although” or “even though.” In standard Portuguese, it is normally followed by the subjunctive because it introduces a contrasting circumstance rather than simply stating the main fact.
Use embora to introduce a contrast
For a present-time example, esteja is the subjunctive form of estar for ele, ela, você, and a gente. The clause can come before or after the main clause: Embora esteja chovendo, vamos sair (Although it is raining, we are going out).
Embora eu esteja cansado, vou terminar isso.
Although I’m tired, I’m going to finish this.
Ela veio, embora estivesse ocupada.
She came, although she was busy.
Embora seja longe, vale a visita.
Although it is far, it is worth the visit.
Use mesmo que for an uncertain condition
Mesmo que often means “even if” or “even though.” When the condition is uncertain or hypothetical, use the subjunctive: mesmo que chova (even if it rains). A future possibility still uses the present subjunctive in this construction.
Brazilian Portuguese also uses mesmo que with the imperfect subjunctive for a hypothetical situation: mesmo que chovesse (even if it rained). Choose the tense based on the situation you mean, not a word-for-word English translation.
Mesmo que chova, vamos caminhar.
Even if it rains, we’re going for a walk.
Mesmo que você não goste, precisa provar.
Even if you don’t like it, you need to try it.
Eu iria, mesmo que fosse tarde.
I would go, even if it were late.
Build the sentence around the contrast
First state the situation that might seem to change your decision, then say what happens anyway. Embora and mesmo que introduce that contrast; the main clause carries the outcome. Do not confuse them with porque (because), which gives a reason.
- Embora esteja frio, vou sair. — Although it is cold, I’m going out.
- Mesmo que esteja frio, vou sair. — Even if it is cold, I’m going out.
- Porque está frio, vou ficar em casa. — Because it is cold, I’m staying home.
Put it into practice
Make one real contrast with embora and one uncertain plan with mesmo que. Check that the verb after each connector matches the meaning.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Even if it rains, we’re going for a walk”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.