N411/179

だが・ですが

Sentence A + だが + Sentence BSentence A + ですが + Sentence BNoun/Noun phrase + だが + Sentence Bい-adjective / な-adjective + だが + Sentence B

Meanings

  • But
  • Still
  • However
  • Nevertheless

About this pattern

Explanation

だが and ですが are conjunctions used to contrast two parts of a sentence. だが is more neutral to slightly formal, and ですが is the polite version. They both mean “but/however/nevertheless,” but choose based on the level of politeness and the relationship between the two clauses. They signal a shift or counterpoint after a statement, often introducing new information that contrasts with what was said before.

Learn in context

Example sentences

今日は雨が降っている。だが、試合は予定通り開催される。

It's raining today. However, the game will be held as scheduled.

彼は忙しいですが、手伝ってくれます。

He's busy, but he will help.

この案は良くない。だが、他にも選択肢がある。

This proposal isn't good. Nevertheless, there are other options.

今日は休みにしました。ですが、緊急の用事が入ってきた。

I took today off. However, an emergency came up.

彼女は若いですが、経験は豊富だ。

She is young, but she has a lot of experience.