もっとも

A conjunction used to add a qualification, reservation, or minor counterpoint to something just stated. The speaker first makes a positive or general statement, then uses もっとも to introduce a caveat. Different from 最(もっと)も (the adverb meaning "most"), which is a separate word.

Usage

• Typically begins a new sentence after the main point has been stated
• The qualification introduced by もっとも is usually minor — it does not negate the main point
• Often followed by が or けど at the end of the qualifying clause
• Can be written as 尤(もっと)も in kanji, but kana is much more common

Common collocations

• もっとも、～だが: however, ~ though
• もっとも、～けれども: though, ~
• もっとも、それは～: however, that is ~

Similar words

• ただし: however, provided that — introduces a condition or restriction; more formal and definitive
• しかし: however — general contrast; stronger opposition than もっとも
• とはいえ: that said — similar nuance of adding a qualification; slightly more formal
• ただ: just, only — casual way to add a minor reservation