I'm learning tiếng Việt

nhưng — meaning in English: But

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for But
buồn
trời
cảm xúc
nhưng
thẩm mỹ
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Vietnamese for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'nhưng' in everyday conversations to contrast ideas or introduce exceptions. For instance, you might hear it in casual discussions about preferences, such as 'I love coffee, nhưng I prefer tea in the morning.' It's also common in written contexts like essays or articles to create a balanced argument.
Synonyms & nuances
'Nhưng' is often compared with 'thế nhưng' or 'mặc dù', which also mean 'but'. However, 'thế nhưng' is slightly more formal and often used to introduce a stronger contrast, while 'mặc dù' translates to 'although', serving a different grammatical function in sentences.
Culture
'Nhưng' has its roots in classical Vietnamese language and has remained a staple in modern communication. Its simplicity belies its importance, as it helps express contrasting thoughts, which is crucial in Vietnamese culture, where harmony and balance are highly valued. An interesting anecdote is that many learners often overuse 'nhưng' instead of varying their connectors, highlighting the importance of mastering nuance in language.
FAQ
Q.When should I use 'nhưng' in a sentence?
'Nhưng' is used to connect two contrasting clauses. It's best employed when you want to present a counterpoint, such as 'I like to travel, nhưng I don't have time.'
Q.Is 'nhưng' used in formal writing?
Yes, 'nhưng' can be used in both spoken and written Vietnamese. In formal writing, however, consider using 'thế nhưng' for a more polished tone.
Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'nhưng'?
One common mistake is using 'nhưng' to start a sentence. While it's grammatically acceptable, it can sound abrupt. It's often better placed in the middle of a sentence.
Learn vietnamese with Maspeak →
Vietnamese Vocabulary