Rule reminder

'Anche se' (even if / even though) overlaps with concessive clauses but has a specifically emphatic function when it stresses that something holds true despite an obstacle or contradiction. 'Anche se' with the indicative = even though (factual). 'Anche se' with the conditional/subjunctive = even if (hypothetical). Emphatic force: 'Anche se mi pagassero, non lo farei' (Even if they paid me, I wouldn't do it). Compare with 'sebbene/benché' (although — subjunctive only, formal) and 'nonostante' (despite). 'Anche se' is more emphatic and colloquially accessible.