～つつ (〜tsutsu)
Explanation
Shows two actions happening simultaneously or a contrast; 'while', 'although'.
Formation
Verb-stem + つつ
Detailed Explanation
The ～つつ grammar point is used to express two actions occurring simultaneously, or to show a contrast between an ongoing action and another factor. It can be translated as 'while' or 'although.' It is attached to a verb in its stem form.
Examples
彼はテレビを見つつ、宿題をしていました。
Kare wa terebi o mitsutsu, shukudai o shite imashita.
He was doing his homework while watching TV.
最近忙しいと思いつつ、毎日運動を続けています。
Saikin isogashii to omoi tsutsu, mainichi undō o tsuzukete imasu.
Although I feel busy these days, I still exercise every day.
彼女は泣きつつ、笑顔で別れを告げた。
Kanojo wa naki tsutsu, egao de wakare o tsugeta.
She was crying, yet she said goodbye with a smile on her face.
雨に濡れつつ、彼は歩き続けました。
Ame ni nure tsutsu, kare wa aruki tsuzukemashita.
He continued walking even though he was getting soaked by the rain.
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.