But and however: contrasting statements

The idea

Use but to join contrasting ideas; a comma usually comes before it when both sides are complete clauses. Use however to connect separate sentences, followed by a comma. A semicolon can also precede it.

Examples

• The café is small, but it is busy.
• Mina likes tea, but her brother prefers coffee.
• The bus was late. However, we arrived on time.
• I wanted to swim, but the water was cold.
• The shop is open; however, the kitchen is closed.
• The path is long but safe.

Watch out

Do not join two complete sentences with only a comma before however. Use a full stop or semicolon instead.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. The room is bright, ___ it is cold. (but / however)

   Show answer or example answer

   but

   but joins two complete clauses after a comma.

2. Choose the correct option. The train was full. ___, we found two seats. (But / However)

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   However

   However begins a separate sentence and is followed by a comma.

3. Choose the correct option. The garden is small ___ beautiful. (but / however)

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   but

   but joins two adjectives describing the garden.

Use it today

Write two contrasting ideas once with but and once with however. Check the punctuation.