Chinese Conjunctions: Using 'But' (但是)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {但是|dànshì} to connect two contrasting ideas, placing it at the start of the second clause.
- Place {但是|dànshì} before the second clause: 我想去，但是没钱。
- It can be shortened to {但|dàn} in casual speech: 他很忙，但很开心。
- Avoid using it with {虽然|suīrán} unless you want to emphasize the contrast.
Overview
At the A2 CEFR level, 但是 (dànshì) serves as your primary conjunction for expressing contrast or contradiction in Chinese, akin to "but" or "however" in English. Mastering 但是 is crucial for constructing sentences that move beyond simple statements to convey more nuanced thoughts, opinions, and unexpected outcomes. It enables you to link two ideas where the second idea presents an opposition, limitation, or an alternative to the first, thereby enriching your communicative ability.
You will encounter 但是 ubiquitously in spoken conversation, written texts, and digital communication, making it an indispensable component of everyday Chinese. Its proper application allows for a more natural and sophisticated flow in your discourse, reflecting a more mature understanding of sentence structure and logical connections.
How This Grammar Works
但是 primarily functions to introduce an adversative clause, meaning the clause it introduces stands in opposition to the preceding statement. This opposition can manifest as a direct contradiction, an unexpected consequence, or a limitation. The core principle involves presenting one idea (Clause A) followed by 但是 and then a conflicting or qualifying idea (Clause B).但是 in conjunction with 虽然 (suīrán), meaning "although" or "even though," creating a powerful concessive-adversative construction: 虽然 [Clause A], 但是 [Clause B]. In this pattern, 虽然 sets up a conceded fact or expectation (Clause A), and 但是 then introduces the actual situation or unexpected outcome (Clause B) that stands in contrast to Clause A. This 虽然...但是... construction is a hallmark of sophisticated Chinese expression and is distinct from English, where "although" and "but" are generally not used together.我喜欢咖啡，但是晚上不喝。 (Wǒ xǐhuān kāfēi, dànshì wǎnshang bù hē. – I like coffee, but I don't drink it at night.) Here, 但是 introduces a direct limitation. In a concessive context: 虽然外面很冷，但是她没有穿外套。 (Suīrán wàimiàn hěn lěng, dànshì tā méiyǒu chuān wàitào.但是 introduces the unexpected action despite the cold. The strength of 但是 lies in its ability to clearly articulate these opposing ideas, providing a logical pivot in the sentence.Formation Pattern
但是 follows two primary patterns, each serving a slightly different nuanced emphasis.
但是 for Direct Contrast:
但是 connects two clauses, with the second clause presenting a direct contrast or limitation to the first. A comma (，) typically precedes 但是 in written Chinese, indicating a pause before the contrasting idea.
[Clause 1]，但是 [Clause 2]。
他中文说得很好，但是汉字写得不好。 (Tā Zhōngwén shuō de hěn hǎo, dànshì Hànzì xiě de bù hǎo. – His Chinese speaking is very good, but his Chinese character writing is not good.)
这家餐厅很漂亮，但是菜不怎么样。 (Zhè jiā cāntīng hěn piàoliang, dànshì cài bù zěnmeyàng. – This restaurant is very beautiful, but the food isn't that great.)
虽然...但是... for Concessive Contrast:
虽然 usually introduces the conceded fact, often placed at the beginning of the first clause, while 但是 introduces the surprising or contrasting result in the second clause. While 虽然 can sometimes be omitted if the concessive meaning is clear from context, its inclusion significantly strengthens the concessive emphasis.
虽然 [Clause 1 (Conceded Fact)]，但是 [Clause 2 (Contrasting Result)]。
虽然今天下雨，但是我们决定去公园。 (Suīrán jīntiān xiàyǔ, dànshì wǒmen juédìng qù gōngyuán. – Although it's raining today, we decided to go to the park.)
虽然这份工作薪水不高，但是很有趣。 (Suīrán zhè fèn gōngzuò xīnxuǐ bù gāo, dànshì hěn yǒuqù. – Although this job's salary isn't high, it's very interesting.)
虽然: In casual conversation or when context strongly implies the concessive nature, 虽然 might be omitted, and 但是 alone conveys the meaning. However, for clarity and stronger emphasis, especially in formal writing, retaining 虽然 is recommended.
When To Use It
但是 in situations where you need to clearly articulate a contrast, a limitation, or an unexpected turn of events. Its versatile nature allows it to fit into numerous contexts, from daily conversation to more formal discourse.他很聪明，但是有点懒。(Tā hěn cōngmíng, dànshì yǒudiǎn lǎn. – He is very smart, but a bit lazy.) (Intelligence vs. laziness)
虽然, this usage highlights a situation where something happens contrary to what might be expected given the initial premise.虽然我学了十年中文，但是口语还是不太好。(Suīrán wǒ xué le shí nián Zhōngwén, dànshì kǒuyǔ háishì bù tài hǎo. – Although I've studied Chinese for ten years, my spoken Chinese is still not very good.) (Long study vs. unimproved speaking ability)
但是 to acknowledge a positive aspect while immediately following it with a drawback or condition.这个办法很好，但是实行起来有难度。(Zhège bànfǎ hěn hǎo, dànshì shíxíng qǐlái yǒu nándù. – This method is very good, but it's difficult to implement.) (Good method vs. implementation difficulty)
但是 can introduce a more critical piece of information that overrides or contextualizes the preceding statement.我们有很多计划，但是最重要的是先完成这个项目。(Wǒmen yǒu hěnduō jìhuà, dànshì zuì zhòngyào de shì xiān wánchéng zhège xiàngmù. – We have many plans, but the most important thing is to finish this project first.)
但是 is broadly applicable, its strength and directness make it suitable for clear, unambiguous statements of contrast. For milder or more nuanced objections, other conjunctions like 可是 or 不过 might be preferred, as discussed in the "Contrast With Similar Patterns" section. When in doubt, 但是 is a reliable choice for conveying "but" effectively.Common Mistakes
但是 due to interference from their native language, particularly English. Awareness of these common errors is key to mastering this conjunction.但是 when 虽然 is present: This is arguably the most frequent mistake. In English, we do not say "Although it's raining, but I will go out." We say "Although it's raining, I will go out." In Chinese, however, the structure 虽然...但是... is almost always preferred and often grammatically required for a natural-sounding sentence when expressing concessive contrast. Omitting 但是 makes the sentence feel incomplete or unidiomatic.- Incorrect:
虽然他生病了，他去上班。(Suīrán tā shēngbìng le, tā qù shàngbān.) - Correct:
虽然他生病了，但是他还是去上班了。(Suīrán tā shēngbìng le, dànshì tā háishì qù shàngbān le. – Although he was sick, he still went to work.)
但是: 但是 must always introduce the second, contrasting clause. It cannot be placed at the very end of a sentence like "though" sometimes is in English.- Incorrect:
我喜欢看书，不喜欢看电视但是。(Wǒ xǐhuān kàn shū, bù xǐhuān kàn diànshì dànshì.) - Correct:
我喜欢看书，但是不喜欢看电视。(Wǒ xǐhuān kàn shū, dànshì bù xǐhuān kàn diànshì. – I like reading, but I don't like watching TV.)
但是 in mild contexts: While 但是 is versatile, it carries a relatively strong sense of contradiction. For very minor points of distinction or soft caveats, 可是 (kěshì) or 不过 (bùguò) might be more appropriate. Using 但是 for every slight contrast can make your speech sound overly firm or even argumentative.- Context: You want to gently point out a minor issue.
- Less natural (strong):
这个主意很好，但是有点贵。(Zhège zhǔyì hěn hǎo, dànshì yǒudiǎn guì. – This idea is good, but it's a bit expensive.) - More natural (softer):
这个主意很好，不过有点贵。(Zhège zhǔyì hěn hǎo, bùguò yǒudiǎn guì. – This idea is good, but it's just a bit expensive.)
但是 with "except": 但是 strictly functions as "but" or "however." For expressions like "except for," Chinese uses structures such as 除了...以外 (chúle... yǐwài). Do not attempt to use 但是 to convey this meaning.但是 with greater accuracy and naturalness.Real Conversations
Understanding how 但是 is employed in authentic communication provides invaluable insight into its practical function and appropriate usage across various registers.
1. Everyday Conversation (Casual):
- A: 你觉得这个周末天气怎么样？ (Nǐ juéde zhège zhōumò tiānqì zěnmeyàng? – What do you think about the weather this weekend?)
- B: 天气预报说会晴天，但是可能会有点风。 (Tiānqì yùbào shuō huì qíngtiān, dànshì kěnéng huì yǒudiǎn fēng. – The forecast says it will be sunny, but it might be a bit windy.)
- (Here, 但是 introduces a minor yet relevant qualification.)
2. Social Media / Online Forums:
- 这家新开的咖啡店环境很好，但是咖啡味道一般。 (Zhè jiā xīn kāi de kāfēidiàn huánjìng hěn hǎo, dànshì kāfēi wèidào yìbān. – This newly opened coffee shop has a great environment, but the coffee tastes mediocre.)
- (A common structure for reviews or sharing opinions, highlighting both positive and negative aspects.)
3. Professional/Semi-Formal Context (e.g., meetings, emails):
- 我们已经完成了初步分析，但是还需要更多数据来支持最终结论。 (Wǒmen yǐjīng wánchéng le chūbù fēnxī, dànshì hái xūyào gèng duō shùjù lái zhīchí zuìzhōng jiélùn. – We have completed the preliminary analysis, but we still need more data to support the final conclusion.)
- (Used to acknowledge progress while simultaneously stating a remaining challenge or requirement.)
4. Expressing Personal Opinions or Challenges:
- 学中文很难，但是很有趣。 (Xué Zhōngwén hěn nán, dànshì hěn yǒuqù. – Learning Chinese is difficult, but it's very interesting.)
- (A common sentiment among learners, illustrating a direct contrast between perceived difficulty and inherent appeal.)
These examples demonstrate 但是's role in conveying balanced perspectives, mild complaints, or outlining next steps despite existing conditions. Its usage is highly adaptable, ranging from informal remarks among friends to more structured points in professional dialogue, consistently introducing a contrasting element.
Quick FAQ
但是 to consolidate your understanding.但是?但是. This usage often signals a significant shift in perspective or a strong counter-argument.- Example:
我理解你的担忧。但是，我们必须向前看。(Wǒ lǐjiě nǐ de dānyōu. Dànshì, wǒmen bìxū xiàng qián kàn. – I understand your concerns. But, we must look forward.)
但是 formal or informal?但是 is highly versatile and fits comfortably in both formal and informal contexts. It's the standard, neutral choice for "but." While it can carry a stronger or more direct tone than 可是 or 不过, it is not inherently formal in a way that would make it inappropriate for casual conversations. Its usage is more about the clarity and strength of the contrast you wish to convey.但是, 可是, 不过, and 却?但是 | Conjunction | Strong, versatile, neutral | Introduces direct opposition, limitation, or unexpected outcome (often with 虽然) | 他很帅，但是脾气不好。 (Tā hěn shuài, dànshì píqi bù hǎo. – He's handsome, but has a bad temper.) |可是 | Conjunction | Softer, more casual/personal | Expresses mild contrast, regret, or a softer objection, common in spoken Chinese | 我喜欢这件衣服，可是有点贵。 (Wǒ xǐhuān zhè jiàn yīfu, kěshì yǒudiǎn guì. – I like this dress, but it's a bit expensive.) |不过 | Conjunction | Mildest, often a gentle caveat | Introduces a slight correction, minor limitation, or an explanation, often precedes a new point | 味道不错，不过有点辣。 (Wèidào bùcuò, bùguò yǒudiǎn là. – The taste is good, but it's a bit spicy.) |却 | Adverb | Emphatic, literary | Follows the subject to emphasize an unexpected action or state; conveys "yet" or "on the contrary" | 他答应了，却没来。 (Tā dāyìng le, què méi lái. – He promised, yet he didn't come.) |但是?，) is standard before 但是 to indicate a clear separation of clauses and a pause for the reader. In informal digital communication (e.g., texting, instant messages), this comma is often omitted for brevity, but its inclusion is never incorrect and always aids clarity.但是?但 (dàn) exists and is frequently used, particularly in written Chinese (e.g., literature, news articles) and formal speeches. It provides a more concise way to express "but" and can sound slightly more literary or emphatic in certain contexts. While 但是 is always acceptable, 但 offers a stylistic alternative for conciseness.Basic Structure
| Part 1 | Connector | Part 2 |
|---|---|---|
|
Subject + Verb
|
但是
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Subject + Verb
|
|
Adjective
|
但是
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Adjective
|
|
Noun Phrase
|
但是
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Noun Phrase
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Casual Variations
| Full Form | Casual Form | Context |
|---|---|---|
|
但是
|
但
|
Texting/Casual Speech
|
|
但是
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不过
|
Softening the blow
|
Meanings
A conjunction used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or contradicts the previous one.
Direct Contrast
Used to show a clear opposition between two facts.
“他想买车，但是太贵了。”
“我想帮你，但是没时间。”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Standard
|
Clause 1, 但是 Clause 2
|
我想去，但是没钱。
|
|
Although
|
虽然 Clause 1, 但是 Clause 2
|
虽然累，但是开心。
|
|
Shortened
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Clause 1, 但 Clause 2
|
他很忙，但很帅。
|
|
Softened
|
Clause 1, 不过 Clause 2
|
很好，不过太贵。
|
Formality Spectrum
我欲前往，但公务繁忙。 (Declining an invitation)
我想去，但是我很忙。 (Declining an invitation)
想去，但忙。 (Declining an invitation)
想去，但没空。 (Declining an invitation)
Contrast Logic
Usage
- 转折 Turn/Contrast
Tone
- 正式 Formal
Examples by Level
我想去，但是没时间。
I want to go, but I don't have time.
他很好，但是我不喜欢他。
He is good, but I don't like him.
这很便宜，但是不好。
This is cheap, but not good.
我想喝水，但是没有。
I want to drink water, but there isn't any.
虽然下雨，但是我们还是要去。
Although it is raining, we are still going.
这个手机很漂亮，但是太贵了。
This phone is pretty, but too expensive.
他学了很久，但是没考好。
He studied for a long time, but didn't do well on the test.
我想帮你，但是我也没办法。
I want to help you, but I can't do anything either.
公司很有名，但是工资不高。
The company is famous, but the salary is not high.
他虽然很聪明，但是不努力。
Although he is smart, he is not hardworking.
我想去中国，但是签证还没办好。
I want to go to China, but the visa isn't ready yet.
这方案很好，但是实施起来很难。
This plan is good, but hard to implement.
尽管困难重重，但是我们依然坚持。
Despite many difficulties, we still persist.
他不仅会说中文，但是也会写。
He not only speaks Chinese, but also writes it.
这个项目虽然预算充足，但是时间紧迫。
Although this project has a sufficient budget, time is tight.
虽然他道歉了，但是我不打算原谅。
Although he apologized, I don't plan to forgive him.
虽然表面上看起来很平静，但是暗流涌动。
Although it looks calm on the surface, there are undercurrents.
他虽然才华横溢，但是性格孤僻。
Although he is talented, he has a reclusive personality.
虽然政策已经出台，但是执行力度不够。
Although the policy has been issued, the enforcement is insufficient.
虽然他极力辩解，但是证据确凿。
Although he tried hard to defend himself, the evidence is conclusive.
虽然历经沧桑，但是他初心未改。
Although he has experienced the vicissitudes of life, his original intention remains unchanged.
虽然此举颇具争议，但是从长远来看是必要的。
Although this move is controversial, it is necessary in the long run.
虽然他学识渊博，但是不善言辞。
Although he is knowledgeable, he is not good with words.
虽然困难重重，但是他依然勇往直前。
Although there are many difficulties, he still moves forward bravely.
Easily Confused
Both mean 'but'.
Both mean 'but/however'.
Both mean 'but/however'.
Common Mistakes
但是我不去。
我想去，但是我不去。
他很帅但是他很坏。
他很帅，但是很坏。
但是，我想吃。
我想吃，但是没钱。
虽然他去，但是他不去。
虽然他去，但是我不去。
他但是很忙。
他很忙，但是...
但是他想去。
他想去，但是...
虽然他去但是。
虽然他去，但是...
他很聪明，但是他很聪明。
他很聪明，但是很懒。
但是，不过，他去了。
不过，他去了。
他但是去。
他还是去了。
但是，这不符合逻辑。
然而，这不符合逻辑。
虽然他努力，但是他失败。
虽然他努力，但仍失败了。
他但是是一个好人。
但他确实是个好人。
但是，无论如何...
无论如何...
Sentence Patterns
___, 但是 ___.
虽然 ___, 但是 ___.
___, 但 ___.
___, 不过 ___.
Real World Usage
想去，但没空。
我要牛肉，但是不要香菜。
虽然我经验不足，但是我很努力。
虽然很累，但是很开心！
虽然票很贵，但是值得。
虽然方案很好，但是我们需要更多时间。
Keep it short
Avoid sentence-initial '但是'
Use '虽然...但是...'
Regional variation
Smart Tips
Use the '虽然...但是...' structure.
Use '但' to save time.
Use '不过' instead of '但是'.
Use '然而' instead of '但是'.
Pronunciation
Tone
Dàn (4th tone) falls sharply, shì (neutral tone) is light.
Contrastive
Clause 1 (rising) -> 但是 (flat) -> Clause 2 (falling)
Highlights the contrast.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Dan' (但是) as a 'Dam' that stops the flow of the first sentence to start a new one.
Visual Association
Imagine a road sign that says 'STOP' (Clause 1) and then an arrow pointing in the opposite direction (Clause 2).
Rhyme
When you want to say 'but' with a twist, use the word {但是|dànshì} on your list.
Story
Xiao Wang wanted to buy a cake. He went to the shop. He saw the price. He said, 'The cake is pretty, but it is too expensive.'
Word Web
Challenge
Write 5 sentences using {但是|dànshì} about your day today.
Cultural Notes
Very common in daily speech.
Often use '可是' (kěshì) more frequently.
Cantonese speakers often use '但係' (daan6 hai6).
Derived from classical Chinese '但' (only/but) and '是' (is).
Conversation Starters
你想去旅游吗？
你喜欢这份工作吗？
你觉得这个电影怎么样？
你对这个政策有什么看法？
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
我想去，___没钱。
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
但是我很忙，我想去。
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
I am tired, but I am happy.
Answer starts with: 我累，...
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Use '但是' to connect '他很聪明' and '他不努力'.
Choose the formal one.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises我想去，___没钱。
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
但是我很忙，我想去。
但是 / 我 / 没钱 / 想去
I am tired, but I am happy.
Match: '虽然累' with...
Use '但是' to connect '他很聪明' and '他不努力'.
Choose the formal one.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercises但是 / 很 / 这件 / 衣服 / 漂亮 / 太 / 贵 / 了
I am very busy, but I still want to learn Chinese.
Match the left and right sides:
虽然我很累，___我还是要写作业。
Select the strongest contrast:
因为他很聪明，但是他不努力。
工作 / 累 / 很 / 但是 / 薪水 / 高
The food is spicy but delicious.
计划很好，___我们需要更多时间。
Which position is correct?
Score: /10
FAQ (8)
Generally no, unless you are responding to a question.
It is standard and neutral, suitable for most situations.
Use '但'.
They are very similar, but '可是' is slightly more conversational.
No, that is redundant.
The written form is, but spoken forms vary.
Use '然而'.
Yes, usually before it.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
pero
Spanish 'pero' is more flexible in sentence placement.
mais
French 'mais' can start a sentence more easily.
aber
German syntax often requires verb inversion after 'aber'.
demo
Japanese 'demo' is often used at the start of a new sentence.
لكن
Arabic 'lakin' has specific grammatical requirements.
但是
Dialects vary (Cantonese '但係').
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
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