〜けど

but / although

1. Overview

「〜けど」 is a Japanese conjunction used to express contrast or opposition, similar to "but" or "although" in English. It is often used in conversational contexts to introduce additional information that contrasts with what has just been stated.

2. Meaning

• Meaning: Indicates "but..." or "although...", typically introducing contrasting information or opinions.

3. Structure

• Grammar Structure:
  • Plain form + けど

4. Usage Explanation

• Connection:

  • 「けど」 is used to connect sentences, similar to how you might use "but" to join two contrasting statements in English.

• Contrast:

  • It is commonly used in everyday conversation and informal writing to introduce contrasting ideas or statements.

5. Example Sentences

1. 天気は良いけど、風が強いです。
   (The weather is nice, but the wind is strong.)

2. 彼女は優しいけど、時々厳しいです。
   (She is kind, but sometimes strict.)

3. 私は日本が好きだけど、言語は難しいです。
   (I like Japan, but the language is difficult.)

4. この本は面白いけど、ちょっと高いです。
   (This book is interesting, but a bit expensive.)

5. 試験は難しかったけど、合格しました。
   (The exam was difficult, but I passed.)

6. Notes

• 「けど」 is more commonly used in casual or informal contexts, while 「ですが」 is typically used in more formal situations.
• The tone of the conversation will influence which conjunction to use; choose based on the level of formality required.

7. Similar Grammar

• 〜ですが: A more formal alternative to 「けど」 used in polite contexts.
• 〜けれども: A slightly more formal version of 「けど」, used for similar purposes but with a more nuanced tone.

8. Summary

「〜けど」 is a useful conjunction in Japanese for expressing contrast. Its informal tone makes it ideal for conversational Japanese, helping to create a more natural flow in dialogue.