But in Tagalog

But in Tagalog translates to “pero,” “ngunit,” or “subalit,” used to express contrast or exception between two statements. This conjunction is one of the most essential words in Filipino conversation, helping to show disagreement, introduce unexpected information, or highlight differences.

Mastering the use of “but” in Tagalog allows you to express nuanced thoughts and create more complex, natural-sounding sentences. Let’s examine how this versatile word functions in different contexts.

[Words] = But

[Definition]:

• But /bʌt/
• Conjunction 1: Used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned.
• Conjunction 2: Used to indicate the impossibility of anything other than what is being stated.
• Preposition: Except; apart from; other than.
• Adverb: Only; just; no more than.

[Synonyms] = Pero, Ngunit, Subalit, Datapwat, Kaso, Kaya nga

[Example]:

Ex1_EN: I want to go to the party, but I have to finish my homework first.
Ex1_PH: Gusto kong pumunta sa party, pero kailangan kong tapusin muna ang aking takdang-aralin.

Ex2_EN: She is young, but she is very intelligent and mature.
Ex2_PH: Siya ay bata pa, ngunit siya ay napakatalino at mature.

Ex3_EN: Everyone but Maria came to the meeting today.
Ex3_PH: Lahat maliban kay Maria ay dumating sa pulong ngayon.

Ex4_EN: It’s expensive, but the quality is worth the price.
Ex4_PH: Ito ay mahal, subalit ang kalidad ay sulit sa presyo.

Ex5_EN: I can but try my best to help you with this problem.
Ex5_PH: Maaari ko lamang pero subukan ang aking makakaya upang tulungan ka sa problemang ito.