but ~, however ~

Beginner

10-15 min

common

Expert Reviewed

Explanation

Connects contrasting clauses. Softens statements.

[Clause A] + けど/が + [Clause B]

行きたいけど、時間がありません。

Ikitai kedo, jikan ga arimasen.

I want to go, but I don't have time.

高いですが、買います。

Takai desu ga, kaimasu.

It's expensive, but I'll buy it.

が is more formal than けど.

です/だ

to be (copula)

は (wa)

topic marker

が (ga)

subject marker

を (wo)

direct object marker

JLPTBooks Editorial Team

Japanese Language Education Specialists

Last updated: Jan 10

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