mais
but
The French word 'mais' is used similarly to the English word 'but', acting as a conjunction to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned. An example usage in a sentence: 'Je veux aller, mais je suis trop fatigué', which translates to 'I want to go, but I'm too tired'.
Example sentences using: mais
Je voulais partir, mais j'ai changé d'avis.
I wanted to leave, but I changed my mind.
This sentence emphasizes a change in decision or opinion, with 'mais' indicating the contrast between the original intention and the final action.
Il est riche, mais il est malheureux.
He is rich, but he is unhappy.
This phrase illustrates the usage of 'mais' to draw attention to the inconsistency between wealth (often associated with happiness) and the individual's emotional state.
Je l'aime, mais elle ne m'aime pas.
I love her, but she doesn't love me.
'Mais' is used here to signify unrequited love, highlighting a contrast between the speaker's emotions and the reciprocation from the other person.
Elle veut aller au cinéma, mais elle n'a pas d'argent.
She wants to go to the movies, but she doesn't have money.
In this context, 'mais' serves to present an obstacle or limitation that prevents the realization of a desire.
C'est simple, mais c'est important.
It's simple, but it's important.
'Mais' is used here to defy a commonly held notion that things which are simple are not necessarily important.
Je comprends, mais je ne suis pas d'accord.
I understand, but I don't agree.
The use of 'mais' here conveys a difference between understanding someone's point of view and agreeing with it.
Il fait beau, mais froid.
The weather is nice, but cold.
This example shows the 'mais' conjunction being used to articulate a contrast in two characteristics of the weather.
On a gagné, mais c'était difficile.
We won, but it was difficult.
Here, 'mais' is used to add information that may contradict the expected inference that winning came easily.
Elle est petite, mais forte.
She is small, but strong.
'Mais' is used to contrast physical size with strength, challenging the assumption that small means weak.
J'ai travaillé dur, mais j'ai échoué.
I worked hard, but I failed.
In this sentence, 'mais' contrasts effort and the expectation of success with the harsh reality of failure.