ولكن
ولكن 30秒で
- A common Arabic conjunction meaning 'but' or 'however', used to link two contrasting clauses in a sentence.
- Composed of 'wa' (and) and 'lakin' (but), it is the standard way to express contrast in Modern Standard Arabic.
- Unlike its relative 'lakinna', it does not change the grammatical case of the noun that follows it.
- Essential for everyday conversation, news, and literature to provide nuances, excuses, and counter-arguments.
The Arabic word ولكن (wa-lakin) is a fundamental conjunction used to introduce a contrast or a contradiction to a previous statement. In English, it is most directly translated as 'but' or 'however.' It is composed of two parts: the prefix wa- (meaning 'and') and the particle lakin (meaning 'but'). While lakin can stand alone in some contexts, the combination wa-lakin is extremely common in Modern Standard Arabic to bridge two independent clauses where the second clause provides information that limits or opposes the first.
- Grammatical Function
- It acts as a coordinating conjunction that joins two sentences. Unlike its 'sister' lakinna, this version (ending in a sukun on the noon) does not change the case of the following noun.
- Semantic Nuance
- It is used for 'Istidrak' (rectification). This means it corrects a potential misunderstanding that the listener might have formed after hearing the first part of the sentence.
أريد أن أشتري السيارة، ولكن ليس عندي مال كافٍ.
In everyday conversation, you will hear this word constantly. It is the 'pivot' of an argument. If someone says something positive, they might follow up with wa-lakin to introduce a reality check or a limitation. It is essential for moving beyond simple sentences into complex, nuanced communication. It allows speakers to express hesitation, provide excuses, or refine their opinions with precision.
الجو جميل اليوم، ولكن السماء غائمة قليلاً.
- Register
- It is neutral and can be used in formal literature, news broadcasts, and polite daily conversation. It is more formal than the Egyptian 'bas' (بس) but less archaic than some classical alternatives.
When using wa-lakin, the speaker is often acknowledging a truth in the first clause while asserting a more important or relevant truth in the second. This makes it a powerful tool for negotiation and diplomacy in Arabic culture, where direct disagreement is often softened by first agreeing with a point and then introducing the 'but'.
الخطة جيدة، ولكن التنفيذ صعب.
Understanding the difference between wa-lakin and lakinna is the hallmark of an intermediate learner. While wa-lakin is a simple connector, lakinna is a 'heavy' particle that requires a specific grammatical structure (the accusative case for the following noun). For beginners, sticking to wa-lakin is safer and covers 90% of communicative needs.
أنا متعب، ولكن سأكمل العمل.
- Frequency
- It is among the top 100 most used words in the Arabic language, appearing in almost every paragraph of argumentative or descriptive text.
الفيلم طويل، ولكن قصته ممتعة.
Using ولكن effectively requires understanding its placement. It almost always sits in the middle of a sentence, acting as a bridge between two contrasting ideas. Unlike English, where you can sometimes start a sentence with 'But' for stylistic effect, Arabic prefers wa-lakin to be preceded by a clause or at least a comma in writing.
- The 'Wa' Prefix
- The 'wa' (و) is attached directly to 'lakin' (لكن). In modern writing, there is no space between them. It functions as a single unit of meaning.
تكلمتُ معه، ولكن لم يفهمني.
One of the most important aspects of using wa-lakin is the 'sukun' (the circle-shaped vowel marker) on the final letter 'noon'. This indicates that it is a light particle. If you were to put a 'shadda' (doubling sign) on the 'noon', it would become lakinna, which changes the grammar of the entire sentence. For beginners, always aim for the 'lakin' sound with a short, stopped 'n'.
هو ذكي جداً، ولكن هو كسول أحياناً.
You can use wa-lakin to contrast adjectives, verbs, or entire situations. It is the primary way to express 'on the other hand' without using more complex phrases. In formal writing, it is often preceded by a comma, though Arabic punctuation rules are more flexible than English ones. The key is the logical flow: [Statement A] + [wa-lakin] + [Contrasting Statement B].
- Comparison with 'Bal'
- While 'bal' (بل) means 'rather' or 'but instead', 'wa-lakin' is used for general contrast. Use 'wa-lakin' when both statements are true but they conflict. Use 'bal' when you want to negate the first statement and replace it with the second.
السيارة قديمة، ولكن المحرك قوي.
In more advanced usage, wa-lakin can be followed by a pronoun. For example, 'wa-lakinahu' (but he) or 'wa-lakinaha' (but she). However, this is technically a contraction of 'lakinna' + pronoun. For the simple 'wa-lakin', you can just follow it with the independent pronoun like 'wa-lakin huwa' (but he). Both are understood, but the latter is simpler for learners.
نحن نحب السفر، ولكن لا نملك الوقت.
Finally, remember that wa-lakin is a 'silent' worker in the sentence. It doesn't take much emphasis when speaking. The emphasis usually falls on the word immediately following it, which highlights the new, contrasting information. Practice saying it quickly, almost as if it's part of the next word.
الأكل لذيذ، ولكن هو حار جداً.
- Sentence Structure Summary
- [Clause 1] + [Comma] + [ولكن] + [Clause 2]. Clause 2 usually contains the 'surprise' or the 'limitation'.
The word ولكن is ubiquitous across the Arab world, though its pronunciation and frequency might vary slightly between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and various dialects. In formal settings, such as news reports on Al Jazeera or Al Arabiya, you will hear it used to balance different political viewpoints or to report on conflicting events. It is the language of objectivity and nuance.
- In Media and News
- News anchors use it to transition from a positive development to a challenge. For example: 'The economy is growing, wa-lakin inflation remains high.'
انتهى الاجتماع، ولكن لم يتم التوصل إلى قرار.
In academic lectures and religious sermons, wa-lakin is used to clarify theological or scientific points. A speaker might state a general rule and then use wa-lakin to introduce an important exception or a deeper layer of meaning. It is a word that signals to the audience: 'Pay attention, the next part is crucial for a full understanding.'
أنت على حق، ولكن انظر إلى الأمر من زاوية أخرى.
In literature and poetry, wa-lakin serves as a dramatic pivot. It can shift the mood of a poem from hope to despair, or from description to action. Famous Arab authors use it to create tension in their narratives. When a character says wa-lakin, the reader knows that a complication is coming.
- Dialectal Variations
- In Levantine or Egyptian dialects, you might hear 'bas' (بس) more frequently in casual talk. However, 'lakin' is still understood and used when the speaker wants to sound slightly more serious or precise.
البيت جميل، ولكن سعره مرتفع جداً.
In business meetings, wa-lakin is the word of negotiation. It is used to introduce 'terms and conditions'. 'We agree to the contract, wa-lakin we need to change the delivery date.' It is a word that balances cooperation with self-interest. If you are learning Arabic for professional reasons, mastering the placement of wa-lakin will help you navigate complex discussions more smoothly.
أحببتُ الكتاب، ولكن النهاية كانت حزينة.
- In Pop Culture
- You will find it in song lyrics, especially in romantic ballads where a singer expresses love 'but' laments the distance or the pain. It is the word of the 'star-crossed lover'.
Even though ولكن seems simple, English speakers often make several recurring errors when integrating it into their Arabic. The most common mistake is confusing wa-lakin (the conjunction) with lakinna (the particle from 'Inna and her sisters'). This isn't just a pronunciation issue; it's a major grammatical error that affects the rest of the sentence.
- The Lakin vs. Lakinna Confusion
- Learners often say 'lakinna' when they mean 'but' in a general sense. Remember: 'lakinna' MUST be followed by a noun in the accusative (mansub) case or a pronoun suffix. 'Wa-lakin' is much more flexible and can be followed by verbs, nouns in any case, or even other particles.
خطأ: هو غني لكنَّ هو بخيل. (Incorrect grammar)
صح: هو غني ولكن هو بخيل. (Correct: He is rich but he is stingy.)
Another frequent error is the placement of the 'wa' (و). In English, we just say 'but'. In Arabic, while lakin is possible, using it without the wa when connecting two sentences can sound abrupt or incomplete in Modern Standard Arabic. Beginners often forget the wa, making their speech sound 'choppy' to native ears.
خطأ: أريد القهوة لاكن بدون سكر. (Spelling error)
صح: أريد القهوة ولكن بدون سكر. (Correct: I want coffee but without sugar.)
A third mistake involves using wa-lakin when bal (بل) is more appropriate. If you are correcting a negative statement, bal is the better choice. For example, 'I didn't buy the red one, but the blue one.' Using wa-lakin here sounds slightly off. Use wa-lakin for 'contrast' and bal for 'replacement'.
- Starting Sentences
- English speakers often start a new sentence with 'But...'. In Arabic, starting a sentence with 'ولكن...' is acceptable in modern journalism, but in classical or high-level academic writing, it is preferred to keep it as a connector within a larger sentence structure.
خطأ: لم أنجح. ولكن سأحاول ثانية. (Slightly weak style)
صح: لم أنجح، ولكن سأحاول ثانية. (Better: I didn't succeed, but I will try again.)
Finally, watch out for the 'noon' pronunciation. If you are reading aloud, do not add a vowel to the 'noon' of lakin unless it is followed by a word starting with a 'hamzatul wasl' (like 'al-'). In that case, the 'noon' might take a small 'kasra' to help the flow, but usually, it should be a clean, stopped 'n' sound. Over-vocalizing it can make you sound like you are struggling with the grammar.
الامتحان كان صعباً، ولكن الطلاب أجابوا جيداً.
While ولكن is the most common way to say 'but', Arabic is a rich language with many synonyms that offer different shades of meaning or levels of formality. Knowing when to use an alternative can make your Arabic sound more sophisticated and precise.
- غير أن (Ghayra anna)
- This is a more formal alternative to 'wa-lakin'. It literally means 'other than that' or 'except that'. It is very common in academic writing and formal news reports. It functions similarly to 'however' or 'nevertheless'.
- إلا أن (Illa anna)
- Similar to 'ghayra anna', this phrase is used to introduce a contrast, often after a long or complex statement. It has a slightly stronger sense of 'except for the fact that'.
الوضع مستقر، غير أن الحذر مطلوب.
Another important word is bal (بل). As mentioned before, bal is used for 'emendation' or 'rectification'. It's like saying 'Not A, but rather B'. While wa-lakin contrasts two facts, bal often replaces the first fact with a more accurate one. In many cases, bal is stronger than wa-lakin.
ما جاء محمد، بل جاء عليّ.
In dialects, the word bas (بس) is the king of 'but'. In Egypt, the Levant, and the Gulf, you will hear bas used in almost every sentence. It is short, easy to say, and versatile. However, if you are writing an essay or speaking in a formal context, you should stick to wa-lakin. Using bas in a formal speech is like using 'cuz' instead of 'because' in an English essay.
- مع ذلك (Ma'a dhalika)
- This means 'with that' or 'nonetheless'. It is used when you want to say 'despite what I just said, this other thing is also true'. It is a great way to start a new sentence that contrasts with the previous one.
كان الوقت متأخراً، ومع ذلك واصلنا المشي.
Finally, for very strong contrasts, you can use على الرغم من... إلا أن... (Despite... however...). This is a correlative pair. It sets up the contrast from the very beginning of the sentence. While wa-lakin is a simple 'but', this structure is more like 'Even though A is true, B is still the case'.
على الرغم من صغر سنه، إلا أنه حكيم جداً.
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
In the Arabic script, 'lakin' is one of the few words where a long 'a' sound is pronounced but not written as an Alif. Instead, a tiny 'dagger alif' is sometimes placed above the Lam.
発音ガイド
- Pronouncing it as 'wa-la-keen' (long 'i').
- Pronouncing it as 'wa-lak-na' (confusing it with lakinna).
- Omitting the 'wa' prefix when it is needed for flow.
- Pronouncing the 'la' too short; it must have a slight elongation.
- Adding a vowel sound after the 'n' (e.g., wa-lakin-a).
難易度
Very easy to recognize due to the unique shape of 'lakin' and the prefix 'wa'.
Easy, but remember not to write the 'alif' after the 'lam'.
Very easy to use; just place it between two contrasting thoughts.
Easy, but must be distinguished from the slightly longer 'lakinna'.
次に学ぶべきこと
前提知識
次に学ぶ
上級
知っておくべき文法
Istidrak (Rectification)
استخدام 'ولكن' لتصحيح فهم خاطئ.
Coordinating Conjunctions
الربط بين جملتين مستقلتين باستخدام 'ولكن'.
Inna and her Sisters (Contrast)
الفرق بين 'لكن' (حرف عطف) و'لكنَّ' (من أخوات إن).
Omission of Alif in Writing
كتابة 'لكن' بدون ألف بعد اللام.
The 'Wa' of Conjunction
اقتران 'لكن' بالواو لتعزيز الربط.
レベル別の例文
أنا أحب التفاح ولكن لا أحب الموز.
I love apples but I do not love bananas.
Simple contrast between two preferences.
البيت كبير ولكن قديم.
The house is big but old.
Contrasting two adjectives describing a noun.
هو يدرس ولكن هو تعبان.
He is studying but he is tired.
Connecting a state of action with a physical state.
الجو حار ولكن جميل.
The weather is hot but beautiful.
Contrasting a potentially negative trait with a positive one.
أريد الذهاب ولكن ليس عندي وقت.
I want to go but I don't have time.
Expressing a desire followed by a limitation.
السيارة سريعة ولكن غالية.
The car is fast but expensive.
Contrasting performance with cost.
أنا أتكلم العربية ولكن قليلاً.
I speak Arabic but a little.
Modifying a statement of ability.
الكتاب ممتع ولكن طويل.
The book is interesting but long.
Contrasting quality with quantity/length.
ذهبتُ إلى السوق ولكن لم أشترِ شيئاً.
I went to the market but I didn't buy anything.
Contrasting an action with its lack of result.
الفندق مريح ولكن بعيد عن المدينة.
The hotel is comfortable but far from the city.
Contrasting internal quality with external location.
هي ذكية جداً ولكن لا تدرس كثيراً.
She is very smart but she doesn't study much.
Contrasting potential with effort.
الأكل لذيذ ولكن فيه الكثير من الملح.
The food is delicious but it has a lot of salt.
Contrasting taste with a specific ingredient issue.
حاولتُ الاتصال بك ولكن هاتفي انطفأ.
I tried to call you but my phone turned off.
Providing an excuse for a failed action.
المدينة مزدحمة ولكن المواصلات جيدة.
The city is crowded but the transportation is good.
Contrasting a negative city trait with a positive one.
قرأتُ الرسالة ولكن لم أفهم المعنى.
I read the letter but I didn't understand the meaning.
Contrasting the act of reading with the lack of comprehension.
هو يسكن في لندن ولكن لا يتكلم الإنجليزية جيداً.
He lives in London but he doesn't speak English well.
Contrasting residence with language proficiency.
أوافقك الرأي، ولكن يجب أن نكون حذرين.
I agree with your opinion, but we must be cautious.
Using contrast to introduce a condition or warning.
المشروع ناجح، ولكن التكاليف كانت عالية جداً.
The project is successful, but the costs were very high.
Balancing success with financial reality.
الفيلم كان طويلاً، ولكن النهاية كانت غير متوقعة.
The movie was long, but the ending was unexpected.
Contrasting a negative aspect of duration with a positive plot twist.
لقد بحثتُ عن المفاتيح في كل مكان، ولكن لم أجدها.
I looked for the keys everywhere, but I didn't find them.
Contrasting extensive effort with lack of success.
الطقس كان سيئاً، ولكن الرحلة كانت ممتعة على أي حال.
The weather was bad, but the trip was enjoyable anyway.
Using 'wa-lakin' with 'ala ayyi hal' (anyway).
أريد أن أساعدك، ولكن ليس لدي الخبرة الكافية.
I want to help you, but I don't have enough experience.
Expressing willingness limited by lack of skill.
الخدمة في المطعم بطيئة، ولكن الطعام يستحق الانتظار.
The service in the restaurant is slow, but the food is worth the wait.
Contrasting a service flaw with product quality.
لقد وعدني بالحضور، ولكن يبدو أنه نسي الموعد.
He promised me to come, but it seems he forgot the appointment.
Contrasting a promise with a suspected reality.
النظرية تبدو منطقية، ولكن التطبيق العملي يواجه صعوبات.
The theory seems logical, but practical application faces difficulties.
Contrasting abstract logic with physical reality.
قد يكون هذا صحيحاً، ولكن هناك عوامل أخرى يجب مراعاتها.
This might be true, but there are other factors that must be considered.
Introducing complexity into a simple statement.
الرواية تعكس الواقع، ولكن بأسلوب رمزي معقد.
The novel reflects reality, but in a complex symbolic style.
Refining a description with a stylistic contrast.
الشركة حققت أرباحاً، ولكن نموها كان أبطأ من المتوقع.
The company made profits, but its growth was slower than expected.
Nuancing financial success.
أنا لا أنكر أهمية التكنولوجيا، ولكن يجب ألا ننسى القيم الإنسانية.
I do not deny the importance of technology, but we must not forget human values.
Using a negative opening to strengthen the 'but' clause.
القرار كان صعباً، ولكن كان لا بد من اتخاذه في ذلك الوقت.
The decision was difficult, but it had to be made at that time.
Justifying a difficult action through necessity.
المدينة تطورت عمرانياً، ولكنها فقدت هويتها التاريخية.
The city developed architecturally, but it lost its historical identity.
Contrasting modernization with cultural loss.
الرسالة كانت واضحة، ولكن رد الفعل كان مفاجئاً للجميع.
The message was clear, but the reaction was surprising to everyone.
Contrasting cause (message) with effect (reaction).
قد تبدو هذه الخطوة بسيطة، ولكنها تنطوي على مخاطر جسيمة.
This step may seem simple, but it involves grave risks.
Using 'wa-lakin' to reveal hidden danger.
الكاتب يميل إلى الإيجاز، ولكن دون الإخلال بالمعنى العميق.
The writer tends toward brevity, but without compromising the deep meaning.
Describing a delicate balance in literary style.
السياسة الخارجية للدولة ثابتة، ولكنها تتسم بالمرونة عند الضرورة.
The state's foreign policy is firm, but it is characterized by flexibility when necessary.
Contrasting firmness with strategic flexibility.
العلم يتقدم بسرعة، ولكن الأخلاق لا تزال تكافح لمواكبته.
Science is advancing rapidly, but ethics is still struggling to keep up with it.
Using contrast to highlight a societal gap.
الجمال يكمن في التفاصيل، ولكن الوحدة الكلية هي التي تمنح العمل قيمته.
Beauty lies in the details, but the overall unity is what gives the work its value.
Philosophical contrast between parts and the whole.
لقد حققنا الكثير، ولكن الطريق أمامنا لا يزال طويلاً وشاقاً.
We have achieved a lot, but the road ahead of us is still long and arduous.
Balancing past achievement with future challenge.
الحقيقة قد تكون مؤلمة، ولكنها تظل أفضل من الوهم المريح.
Truth may be painful, but it remains better than a comfortable illusion.
Abstract moral contrast.
التغيير ضروري، ولكن يجب أن يتم في إطار من الاستقرار.
Change is necessary, but it must take place within a framework of stability.
Defining the conditions for a necessary action.
إن التاريخ لا يعيد نفسه حرفياً، ولكن ثمة إيقاعات تتكرر عبر العصور.
History does not repeat itself literally, but there are rhythms that recur through the ages.
Sophisticated historical analysis using contrast.
النص حمال أوجه، ولكن السياق التاريخي يضيق نطاق التأويل.
The text is open to many interpretations, but the historical context narrows the scope of hermeneutics.
Academic discussion on interpretation and context.
قد يظن البعض أن الصمت ضعف، ولكن في صمت الحكيم تكمن قوة لا تضاهى.
Some may think silence is weakness, but in the silence of the wise lies an incomparable strength.
Rhetorical reversal of a common perception.
الإبداع ليس مجرد إلهام، ولكن هو نتاج جهد مضنٍ وتراكم معرفي.
Creativity is not just inspiration, but the product of strenuous effort and cognitive accumulation.
Defining a complex concept through negation and contrast.
الحرية ليست فوضى، ولكنها مسؤولية واعية تجاه الذات والآخر.
Freedom is not chaos, but a conscious responsibility toward oneself and the other.
Philosophical definition of a value.
العولمة قربت المسافات، ولكنها في الوقت ذاته عمقت الفجوات الثقافية.
Globalization brought distances closer, but at the same time, it deepened cultural gaps.
Analyzing a global phenomenon with a 'wa-lakin fi al-waqt dhatihi' structure.
اللغة كائن حي يتطور، ولكنها تظل وفية لجذورها العميقة.
Language is a living being that evolves, but it remains faithful to its deep roots.
Metaphorical description of linguistic evolution.
العدالة قد تتأخر، ولكن موازين الكون لا بد أن تستقيم في النهاية.
Justice may be delayed, but the scales of the universe must eventually be straightened.
Expressing a universal moral conviction.
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— Not only this, but also... Used to add more information with emphasis.
هو ليس ذكياً فحسب، ولكن هو مجتهد أيضاً.
— Yes, but... A polite way to disagree or add a condition.
نعم، ولكن يجب أن نفكر في السعر.
— But what if...? Used to introduce a hypothetical problem or scenario.
ولكن ماذا لو لم يأتِ القطار؟
— But how? Used to express doubt or ask for a method after a statement.
سنبني بيتاً، ولكن كيف؟
— But why? Used to ask for a reason behind a contrasting action.
استقال من عمله، ولكن لماذا؟
— But don't forget that... Used to remind someone of an important fact.
الرحلة غداً، ولكن لا تنسَ أن تحضر جواز سفرك.
— But the important thing is... Used to focus on the main point.
خسرنا المباراة، ولكن المهم هو الروح الرياضية.
— But in the end... Used to summarize a contrasting outcome.
تعبنا كثيراً، ولكن في النهاية نجحنا.
— But honestly... Used to introduce a blunt or honest opinion.
أنت صديقي، ولكن بصراحة أنت مخطئ.
— But do you think that...? Used to challenge someone's opinion politely.
الفكرة جيدة، ولكن هل تعتقد أنها ستنجح؟
よく混同される語
Lakinna has a shadda and requires a noun in the accusative case. Walakin is a simple conjunction.
Li-anna means 'because'. Beginners sometimes confuse the sounds of 'but' and 'because'.
Bal means 'but rather'. Use it for correcting a mistake, while walakin is for general contrast.
慣用句と表現
— But the winds blow in a way that the ships do not desire. Used when things don't go as planned.
خططنا لكل شيء، ولكن تجري الرياح بما لا تشتهي السفن.
Literary— But every horse has a stumble. Used to say that even the best make mistakes.
هو مدير ممتاز، ولكن لكل جواد كبوة.
Formal— But there is no life in the one you are calling. Used when someone ignores advice or doesn't listen.
نصحته كثيراً، ولكن لا حياة لمن تنادي.
Common— But the absent person has their excuse with them. Used to defend someone who didn't show up.
لم يحضر الاجتماع، ولكن الغائب عذره معه.
Proverbial— But not everything a person wishes for is attained. Used to express resignation to reality.
أراد الفوز، ولكن ما كل ما يتمنى المرء يدركه.
Poetic— But the hand is short and the eye is far-seeing. Used when you want to help but lack the means.
أريد مساعدتك مالياً، ولكن اليد قصيرة.
Common— But patience is the key to relief. Used to encourage someone during a difficult time.
الوضع صعب، ولكن الصبر مفتاح الفرج.
Common— But learning in youth is like engraving on stone. Used to emphasize the importance of early education.
الدراسة صعبة الآن، ولكن العلم في الصغر كالنقش على الحجر.
Educational— But the best of speech is that which is brief and to the point.
تكلم كثيراً، ولكن خير الكلام ما قل ودل.
Formal— But he who grows up on something, grows old on it. Used to explain persistent habits.
حاول تغيير عاداته، ولكن من شب على شيء شاب عليه.
Proverbial間違えやすい
Similar spelling and meaning.
Lakinna is a particle that affects grammar (Inna sister); Walakin is a conjunction that doesn't.
الجو حار لكنَّ الظلَّ بارد.
Both translate to 'but' in some contexts.
Bal is for emendation (not A, but B); Walakin is for contrast (A is true, but B is also true).
ما شربتُ ماءً بل عصيراً.
Both involve exceptions.
Illa means 'except' (All came except Zaid); Walakin means 'but' (They came but Zaid left).
جاء الجميع إلا زيداً.
Both can show contrast.
Ghayr is usually 'other than' or 'non-'; Walakin is a connector.
هذا غير صحيح.
The dialect version of 'but'.
Bas is informal/dialect; Walakin is formal/MSA.
بدي أروح بس تعبان.
文型パターン
[Noun] [Adjective], ولكن [Adjective].
القهوة ساخنة، ولكن لذيذة.
أنا [Verb], ولكن لا [Verb].
أنا أقرأ، ولكن لا أكتب.
[Sentence], ولكن ليس عندي [Noun].
أريد السفر، ولكن ليس عندي مال.
[Sentence], ولكن [Sentence with 'لم'].
ذهبتُ إلى البيت، ولكن لم أجد أحداً.
أوافقك، ولكن [Condition].
أوافقك، ولكن يجب أن نبدأ الآن.
[Sentence], ولكن للأسف [Sentence].
اتصلتُ بك، ولكن للأسف كنتَ نائماً.
ليس فقط [Sentence], ولكن [Sentence] أيضاً.
ليس فقط هو غني، ولكن هو كريم أيضاً.
قد يبدو [Adjective], ولكن في الواقع [Adjective].
قد يبدو الأمر سهلاً، ولكن في الواقع هو معقد.
語族
名詞
関連
使い方
Extremely high. It is a core functional word in the Arabic language.
-
Writing 'لاكن' instead of 'لكن'.
→
لكن
The long 'a' sound in 'lakin' is a 'dagger alif' which is not written as a full letter. This is a very common spelling error for beginners.
-
Using 'lakinna' (لكنَّ) before a verb.
→
ولكن (wa-lakin)
'Lakinna' is a particle that must be followed by a noun or pronoun. If a verb follows, you must use 'ولكن'.
-
Forgetting the 'wa' (و) when connecting sentences.
→
ولكن
While 'lakin' alone is grammatically possible, 'wa-lakin' is the standard and more natural-sounding connector in Modern Standard Arabic.
-
Using 'ولكن' to mean 'except'.
→
إلا (Illa)
'ولكن' means 'but' (contrast), whereas 'إلا' means 'except' (exclusion). They are not interchangeable.
-
Pronouncing it as 'wa-lakeen'.
→
wa-lakin
The 'i' sound in 'lakin' is short (kasra), not long (ya). Pronouncing it long can make the word unrecognizable.
ヒント
The Sukun Rule
Always remember that 'ولكن' ends with a sukun (a stop) on the noon. This distinguishes it from 'lakinna'. If you don't pronounce the stop, you might accidentally trigger a different grammatical rule.
No Alif Allowed
Never write an alif after the lam in 'لكن'. It's one of the 'magic' words in Arabic where the sound is there but the letter is not. Practice writing it ten times to build muscle memory.
Variety is Key
In a long essay, don't use 'ولكن' in every paragraph. Use 'غير أن' or 'إلا أن' to show that you have a high-level vocabulary. It makes your writing more professional.
The Polite Pivot
Use 'ولكن' to soften your 'no'. Instead of just saying 'No, I can't', say 'I would love to, ولكن I have another appointment.' It's much more culturally appropriate.
Catch the 'Wa'
When listening to fast speech, the 'wa' at the beginning of 'ولكن' can be very short. Train your ear to hear that 'w' sound as a signal that a contrast is coming.
Context Clues
If you see 'لكن' without a 'wa', check if it's contrasting two small words. If it has a 'wa', it's almost certainly connecting two full sentences.
Learn the Sisters
Learn 'ولكن' alongside 'لأن' (because) and 'لذلك' (therefore). These three words together will allow you to build almost any logical argument in Arabic.
The Dialect Bridge
Even if you only want to learn a dialect, learn 'ولكن'. It is the 'bridge' word that works in both formal and informal settings, making you sound more versatile.
The 'Lakin' Lock
Think of 'Lakin' as a 'Lock'. It locks the first thought and opens a new, different one. 'Wa-Lakin' = 'And Lock' (and change the direction).
Daily Contrast
Every time you say 'but' in English today, try to say 'ولكن' in your head. This simple mental exercise will make the word second nature to you.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Think of 'Wa-Lakin' as 'Walking' with a 'But'. You are walking along a path (your first sentence), BUT then you hit a wall (the contrast). 'Walking... Lakin!'
視覚的連想
Imagine a road that suddenly turns 90 degrees. The first part of the road is your first clause, and 'ولكن' is the sharp turn that changes the direction.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Try to write five sentences about your favorite things, but add a 'ولكن' to each one to show a small downside. For example: 'I love pizza, but it makes me sleepy.'
語源
The word is a combination of the conjunction 'wa' (and) and the particle 'lakin' (but). 'Lakin' itself is an ancient Semitic particle used for contrast.
元の意味: The original meaning was likely 'and yet' or 'and established as such'.
Afroasiatic -> Semitic -> Central Semitic -> Arabic.文化的な背景
No specific sensitivities, but be aware that 'ولكن' is a neutral word used in all contexts from sacred to profane.
English speakers often use 'but' to start sentences. In Arabic, 'ولكن' is more of a mid-sentence connector. Using it to start a sentence is possible but feels very 'journalistic'.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Giving Excuses
- أردتُ المساعدة ولكن...
- كنتُ سآتي ولكن...
- حاولتُ ولكن...
- آسف ولكن...
Describing Objects
- جميل ولكن غالي
- صغير ولكن مريح
- قديم ولكن قوي
- جديد ولكن معطل
Expressing Opinions
- أوافقك ولكن...
- فكرة جيدة ولكن...
- أعتقد ذلك ولكن...
- صحيح ولكن...
Travel and Weather
- الجو مشمس ولكن بارد
- الرحلة ممتعة ولكن متعبة
- الفندق جيد ولكن بعيد
- الطريق طويل ولكن جميل
Work and Study
- الامتحان سهل ولكن طويل
- العمل ممتع ولكن شاق
- الراتب جيد ولكن المدير صعب
- الدرس واضح ولكن الكتاب معقد
会話のきっかけ
"أنا أحب السفر إلى الجبال، ولكن أين تفضل أنت الذهاب؟"
"اللغة العربية جميلة، ولكن ما هو أصعب شيء فيها بالنسبة لك؟"
"هذا المطعم رائع، ولكن هل جربت الطعام في المطعم الآخر؟"
"أريد أن أتعلم العزف على العود، ولكن ليس عندي وقت. وأنت؟"
"الطقس رائع اليوم، ولكن هل تعتقد أنه سيمطر غداً؟"
日記のテーマ
اكتب عن يوم كنت فيه سعيداً ولكن حدث شيء بسيط أزعجك.
صف مدينتك: اذكر الأشياء الجميلة فيها، ولكن اذكر أيضاً الأشياء التي لا تحبها.
تحدث عن هدف تريد تحقيقه، ولكن اشرح العقبات التي تواجهك.
اكتب عن كتاب قرأته أو فيلم شاهدته: ما الذي أعجبك فيه، ولكن ما الذي لم يعجبك؟
تحدث عن صديق تحبه كثيراً، ولكن اذكر صفة واحدة فيه تتمنى لو تتغير.
よくある質問
10 問In Modern Standard Arabic, especially in journalism, it is common to start a sentence with 'ولكن' to show contrast with the previous sentence. However, in very formal or classical writing, it is preferred to keep it as a connector within a single sentence. If you do start a sentence with it, make sure the contrast is clear.
In modern usage, they are almost identical in meaning. However, 'ولكن' (with the 'wa') is much more common when connecting two full sentences. 'لكن' alone is sometimes used in classical texts or when contrasting two single words (e.g., 'small but strong'). Using 'ولكن' is always a safe bet for learners.
This is a historical spelling convention in Arabic. A few very common words, like 'لكن', 'هذا', and 'الله', have a long 'a' sound that is pronounced but not written with a full Alif letter. Instead, a small 'dagger alif' is used in vocalized texts. Writing it as 'لاكن' is considered a spelling error.
No, 'ولكن' (with a sukun on the noon) is a coordinating conjunction and does not change the grammatical case of the following words. Only its sister 'لكنَّ' (with a shadda and a fatha) changes the following noun to the accusative (nasb) case.
The most common way is to use the pattern 'ليس فقط... ولكن... أيضاً'. For example: 'ليس فقط هو ذكي، ولكن هو كريم أيضاً' (Not only is he smart, but he is also generous). This is a very useful structure for intermediate learners.
While 'ولكن' is understood by everyone, most dialects have their own preferred word for 'but'. In Egypt and the Levant, 'bas' (بس) is the most common. In North Africa, you might hear 'walakin' or 'be-sah' (بصح). However, 'ولكن' remains the standard for formal communication across the Arab world.
Yes, 'ولكن' is the primary translation for both 'but' and 'however'. If you want a more formal word specifically for 'however', you can use 'غير أن' or 'ومع ذلك'.
Istidrak is the Arabic grammatical term for 'rectification'. It refers to the use of a word like 'ولكن' to correct a potential misunderstanding. For example, if I say 'The car is old', you might think it's bad. I use 'ولكن' to rectify that: '...but it is very fast'.
When you want to say 'but he' or 'but I', you usually use the 'lakinna' form: 'ولكنه' (but he), 'ولكنني' (but I). However, in simpler Arabic, you can just say 'ولكن هو' or 'ولكن أنا'. Both are understood, but the attached version is more idiomatic.
It is a neutral contrast. It can be used for small differences ('hot but nice') or major contradictions ('I love him but I will leave him'). The strength of the contrast depends on the context of the sentences it connects.
自分をテスト 180 問
اكتب جملة بسيطة تستخدم فيها 'ولكن' لوصف الطقس.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
اكتب جملة تستخدم فيها 'ولكن' للتعبير عن رغبتك في شيء ما مع وجود عائق.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
اكتب جملة تقارن فيها بين صفتين لبيت ما باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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استخدم 'ولكن' في جملة عن دراستك للغة العربية.
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اكتب جملة تبدأ بـ 'أنا أحب...' وتنتهي بـ 'ولكن لا أحب...'.
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اكتب جملة عن فيلم شاهدته باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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اكتب جملة تعتذر فيها عن عدم الحضور باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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اكتب جملة عن شخص تعرفه باستخدام صفتين متناقضتين و'ولكن'.
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استخدم 'ولكن للأسف' في جملة مفيدة.
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اكتب جملة رسمية تستخدم فيها 'ولكن' في سياق العمل.
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اكتب جملة تستخدم فيها 'ولكن في الحقيقة'.
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استخدم 'ولكن' للربط بين جملتين طويلتين.
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اكتب جملة عن مدينة زرتها باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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اكتب جملة تستخدم فيها 'ليس فقط... ولكن... أيضاً'.
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اكتب جملة عن الطعام في مطعم ما باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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استخدم 'ولكن' في سياق رياضي.
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اكتب جملة عن التكنولوجيا باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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اكتب جملة فلسفية بسيطة باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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استخدم 'ولكن' للتعبير عن مفاجأة.
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اكتب جملة عن الوقت باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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قل جملة باللغة العربية تعني: 'I like tea but I don't like coffee.'
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صف منزلك باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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تحدث عن مهارة تملكها ولكنك لست خبيراً فيها.
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قل جملة عن الطقس اليوم باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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عبر عن رغبتك في شراء شيء غالي باستخدام 'ولكن'.
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تحدث عن صديق لك باستخدام صفتين متناقضتين.
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قل جملة تعتذر فيها عن التأخر.
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استخدم 'ولكن' في جملة عن دراستك.
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تحدث عن مدينة زرتها وأعجبتك ولكن كان فيها عيب واحد.
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قل جملة تعبر عن رأيك في فيلم شاهدته مؤخراً.
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استخدم 'ولكن للأسف' في جملة عن ضياع شيء ما.
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قل جملة عن الرياضة المفضلة لديك.
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تحدث عن خططك لعطلة نهاية الأسبوع.
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استخدم 'ولكن' لرفض دعوة بلباقة.
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قل جملة عن تعلم اللغة العربية.
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تحدث عن وجبة طعام جربتها.
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استخدم 'ولكن' في جملة عن التكنولوجيا.
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قل جملة عن العمل.
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تحدث عن كتاب قرأته.
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استخدم 'ولكن' في نصيحة لشخص ما.
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استمع إلى الجملة: 'أنا جائع ولكن لا يوجد أكل'. ماذا قال المتحدث؟
استمع: 'الامتحان سهل ولكن طويل'. هل الامتحان صعب؟
استمع: 'أريد الخروج ولكن الجو ممطر'. ماذا سيفعل المتحدث على الأرجح؟
استمع: 'اتصلتُ بك ولكن هاتفك كان مغلقاً'. لماذا لم يجب الشخص؟
استمع: 'الفيلم رائع ولكن النهاية غريبة'. ما رأيه في النهاية؟
استمع: 'أحب القراءة ولكن ليس عندي وقت'. ما هي المشكلة؟
استمع: 'السيارة قديمة ولكنها سريعة'. هل السيارة بطيئة؟
استمع: 'سأساعدك ولكن غداً'. متى ستكون المساعدة؟
استمع: 'القهوة باردة ولكن لذيذة'. هل القهوة سيئة؟
استمع: 'البيت بعيد ولكن المواصلات سهلة'. هل من الصعب الوصول للبيت؟
استمع: 'أريد الذهاب ولكن ليس الآن'. متى يريد الذهاب؟
استمع: 'الدرس واضح ولكن الكتاب معقد'. ما هو الشيء المعقد؟
استمع: 'هو ذكي ولكن كسول'. ما هي الصفة السلبية؟
استمع: 'الجو مشمس ولكن الرياح قوية'. كيف هو الجو؟
استمع: 'أحب التفاح ولكن أفضل البرتقال'. ماذا يفضل؟
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'ولكن' (wa-lakin) is your go-to tool for saying 'but' in Arabic. It bridges two ideas, where the second one limits or contrasts the first. For example: 'الجو جميل ولكن حار' (The weather is beautiful but hot). Remember to keep the 'noon' sound short and always include the 'wa' prefix in most contexts.
- A common Arabic conjunction meaning 'but' or 'however', used to link two contrasting clauses in a sentence.
- Composed of 'wa' (and) and 'lakin' (but), it is the standard way to express contrast in Modern Standard Arabic.
- Unlike its relative 'lakinna', it does not change the grammatical case of the noun that follows it.
- Essential for everyday conversation, news, and literature to provide nuances, excuses, and counter-arguments.
The Sukun Rule
Always remember that 'ولكن' ends with a sukun (a stop) on the noon. This distinguishes it from 'lakinna'. If you don't pronounce the stop, you might accidentally trigger a different grammatical rule.
No Alif Allowed
Never write an alif after the lam in 'لكن'. It's one of the 'magic' words in Arabic where the sound is there but the letter is not. Practice writing it ten times to build muscle memory.
Variety is Key
In a long essay, don't use 'ولكن' in every paragraph. Use 'غير أن' or 'إلا أن' to show that you have a high-level vocabulary. It makes your writing more professional.
The Polite Pivot
Use 'ولكن' to soften your 'no'. Instead of just saying 'No, I can't', say 'I would love to, ولكن I have another appointment.' It's much more culturally appropriate.
関連コンテンツ
generalの関連語
عادةً
A1たいてい、普通は;通常の状況下で。
عادةً ما
B2この副詞は、通常、物事がほとんどの場合に起こることを意味します。
إعداد
B2食べ物やプロジェクトなど、何かを準備する手順や過程のことです。
عاضد
B2誰かの助けになる、支えるという意味の動詞です。特に、相手が困っている時に使います。
عادي
A1それは普通の日のことです。
عاقبة
B1行動の結果や影響、しばしば不快なもの。自分の選択の結果を受け入れなければならない。
أعلى
A1より高い、または最高位の。
عال
B1これは、音の高さやレベルが高いことを表す言葉だよ。例えば、高い音や高い価格など。
عالٍ
A2物理的な高さ(高い)または音量(大きい)を意味します。
عَالَمِيّ
B1世界全体に関する;世界的な、またはグローバルな。