How to say “But” in Japanese

How to say “But” in Japanese

In Japanese, the word “but” can be expressed in several ways, depending on the formality, sentence structure, and nuance. Here are the most common ones:

1. しかし (shikashi)

Formality: High (formal speech or writing)

Placement: Usually at the start of a sentence.

Meaning: “However” / “But” (used to contrast ideas formally)

Example:
日本は美しい国です。
しかし、地震が多いです。
(Japan is a beautiful country. However, there are many earthquakes.)

2. でも (demo)

Formality: Casual to neutral

Placement: Also at the start of a sentence.

Meaning: “But” / “However” (like しかし, but more casual)

Example:
今日は忙しいです。でも、明日は暇です。
(I’m busy today. But I’m free tomorrow.)

3. けど (kedo)

Formality: Casual

Placement: Within or at the end of a sentence

Meaning: “But” / “Though”

Example:
寿司はおいしいけど、高いです。
(Sushi is delicious, but it’s expensive.)

4. が (ga) – Polite/formal “but”

Often used in written or formal speech.
Common in speeches or official contexts.

Example:
日本語は難しいですが、面白いです。
(Japanese is difficult, but it’s interesting.)

Key Takeaway:
They all mean “but”, but differ in formality and position in a sentence:

Use しかし for formal writing or speeches.

Use でも for casual conversation or friendly writing.

Use けど inside a sentence or at the end, especially when speaking casually.

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