可是 kěshì but
but; however
How to remember 可是: 可 may + 是 is = but.
Characters
How it is used
- A softer, conversational 'but' - 我想去，可是没时间 (wǒ xiǎng qù, kěshì méi shíjiān) I'd like to go, but I've no time.
- Interchangeable with 但是 (dànshì) in everyday speech; 但是 feels a touch more formal/emphatic in writing.
- Sits at the head of the second clause, not mid-sentence like English 'but' can.
Example sentences
- 下雨了，可是我还是要出门。 Xiàyǔ le, kěshì wǒ háishi yào chūmén.Even though it's raining I still have to go out.