つつ(も)

つつ(も) expresses a contrast between two simultaneous states or actions. The basic つつ means “while/that… but” and is used to show that the main clause occurs in spite of or in contrast to the situation in the subordinate clause. It is more literary or formal than 〜ながら and is common in written Japanese or formal speech. The form with つつも emphasizes a stronger contrast, roughly equivalent to “although …” or “despite ….” Typically attached to the ます-stem of a verb. Nouns or adjectives do not take つつ; it mainly pairs with verbs in the ます-form stem. Use when you want to highlight a twist or surprising outcome given the ongoing situation.