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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'but' formally with 但是 (dànshì)

    HSK 2
    Connecting Ideas

    Structure

    Clause₁ + 但是 + Clause₂

    Explanation

    但是 means "but" or "however" and introduces a contrasting clause. It is slightly more formal than 可是 and is common in both written and spoken Chinese. For example, 他很聪明，但是不努力 means "He is smart, but not hardworking."

    Examples

    • 我听懂了，但是不会说。

      wǒ tīng dǒng le, dànshì bú huì shuō.

      I understood what was said, but I can't speak it.

    • 这道菜好吃，但是有点辣。

      zhè dào cài hǎochī, dànshì yǒudiǎn là.

      This dish is delicious, but it's a bit spicy.

    • 外面很热，但是房间里很凉快。

      wàimiàn hěn rè, dànshì fángjiān lǐ hěn liángkuai.

      It's very hot outside, but it's cool inside the room.

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    Expressing 'but' formally with 但是 (dànshì) | Chinese Grammar