Use 'concessive' to show contrast between expected and actual outcomes. Though he struggled, his efforts had a concessive success.
Pro Tip 2/3
Unexpected Conditions
'Concessive' highlights conditions that don't prevent an event or action from happening. The weather was bad, yet there was a concessive charm to the evening.
Pro Tip 3/3
Literary Device
'Concessive' is often used in literature to create depth in characters or situations. He was poor, with a concessive dignity that impressed everyone.