If you want to know how to say but in German, the most common conjunction is aber. German also uses sondern after a negation when correcting or contrasting two things, as in “not this, but that.”
“But” in German is usually aber, pronounced approximately AH-ber. For example, Ich möchte kommen, aber ich habe keine Zeit means “I would like to come, but I have no time.”
How Do You Say But in German?
The standard German word for but is aber. It connects two contrasting ideas and usually does not change the word order of the following clause. Compare weil, “because”, which introduces a clause with a different verb position.
Aber can also begin a sentence to express a contrast or mild surprise.
Meaning: But
Different German Words for But
Use aber for general contrast. Use sondern after a negative statement to say “but rather.”
1. Aber — But
Aber is the everyday word for “but.” Das ist klein, aber schön means “That is small but beautiful.”
2. Sondern — But rather
Sondern follows a negation and corrects the first idea: Nicht Tee, sondern Kaffee means “Not tea, but coffee.”
3. Doch — But / However
Doch can mean “but” or “however,” and it can also contradict a negative statement: Doch! means “Yes, actually!”
4. Jedoch — However
Jedoch means “however” and sounds more formal than aber.
But in German: Quick Comparison
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| German | Meaning | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| aber | but | General contrast |
| sondern | but rather | After a negation |
| doch | but / however | Contrast or contradiction |
| jedoch | however | Formal writing |
How to Pronounce Aber
Aber is pronounced AH-ber. The first syllable receives the main stress, and the final German r is softer than an English r.
Example Sentences Using But in German
Use: Connecting two contrasting descriptions.
Use: Correcting a negative choice.
Use: Expressing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions About But in German
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How do you say but in German?
Say aber.
What is the difference between aber and sondern?
Aber expresses general contrast. Sondern follows a negation and means “but rather.”
What does doch mean?
Doch can mean “but,” “however,” or a contradiction to a negative statement.
How do you say not but in German?
Use nicht … sondern …, meaning “not … but rather …”.
Is jedoch formal?
Yes. Jedoch is more formal or written than everyday aber.
Summary: How to Say But in German
The main word for but in German is aber. Use sondern after a negation for “but rather,” doch for “however” or contradiction, and jedoch in formal writing.
