但是
dàn shì
But
但是 (dànshì) is the most common and versatile way to say “but” or “however” in Mandarin Chinese. It's used to introduce a contrasting idea or a turn in thought, much like its English equivalents.
When to use it
Neutral and widely applicable. 可是 (kěshì) is very similar and often interchangeable, sometimes feeling a bit softer or more casual. 不过 (bùguò) is also common, often used for a slight turn or a minor objection, and can be more casual. 然而 (rán'ér) is more formal and literary, equivalent to “however” or “nevertheless.”
How to pronounce it
Sounds roughly like “DAHN-shir.” Both syllables are falling tones. The second syllable, 是, is often pronounced lightly, almost like 'shir' without a strong 'r' sound.
Other ways to say it
- 可是kě shìbut (often softer/more casual)
- 不过bú guòbut/however (often a slight turn/minor objection, casual)
- 然而rán érhowever/nevertheless (formal/literary)
Examples
我喜欢吃苹果，但是不喜欢吃香蕉。
wǒ xǐ huan chī píng guǒ ， dàn shì bù xǐ huan chī xiāng jiāo 。
I like to eat apples, but I don't like to eat bananas.
他很聪明，可是有点儿懒。
tā hěn cōng ming ， kě shì yǒu diǎn er lǎn 。
He's very smart, but a bit lazy.
这件衣服很漂亮，不过有点贵。
zhè jiàn yī fu hěn piào liang ， bú guò yǒu diǎn guì 。
This dress is very pretty, but a bit expensive.
Pro tip: While 但是, 可是, and 不过 are often interchangeable, 可是 and 不过 can sometimes feel a bit more conversational or introduce a less strong contrast than 但是. 然而 is reserved for more formal writing or speech.
Related phrases
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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