Q&A | What is the difference between 但是, 可是, and 不過?

Which is most commonly used? Are they interchangeable? Which one is more formal than the others? Will I offend anyone if I choose the wrong one to use? Today we give some answers to these questions, if you’ve ever wondered.

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💠 Bottom line:

• ① Intensity of tone: 但是 > 可是 > 不過(过)
• ② Focus:
  👉 “但是 & 可是 clauses” emphasize the contrast, which are usually the focus.
  👉 “不過 clause” gives additional info, helping to further elaborate on the main clause.
• ③ Frequency of use in colloquial situations: 但是 > 可是 > 不過
  e.g. 我很想去旅行，但是我時間(时间)不夠(不够)。
  (wǒ hěnxiǎng qù lǔxíng, dànshì wǒ shíjiān búgòu.)
  = I really want to go travelling but I don’t have enough time.
  e.g. 我很喜歡(喜欢)這個(这个)工作，可是薪水太低了。
  (wǒ hěn xǐhuān zhège gōngzuò, dànshì xīnshuǐ tàidī le.
  = I really like this job, but the salary is too low.

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