可是

• Pinyin: kě shì
• Hanzi breakdown: 可 (kě) — but, yet; 是 (shì) — to be — functioning together as a conjunction

Meaning

But; however. A conjunction that introduces a contrasting or unexpected statement.

One of the most common ways to express contrast in spoken Chinese. Similar to 但是 but slightly more colloquial. Often used at the beginning of the second clause.

Examples

1. 我想去，可是没有时间。 I want to go, but I don't have time.
2. 这件衣服很好看，可是太贵了。 This dress looks nice, but it's too expensive.
3. 他很聪明，可是不太努力。 He's very smart, but not very hardworking.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, conversation, contrast

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 天气很好，可是我不想出门。(The weather is nice, but I don't want to go out.)
• 我很累，可是还得工作。(I'm very tired, but I still have to work.)

Don't Say

• 不要在一个句子里同时用'可是'和'但是' (Don't use both 可是 and 但是 in the same sentence — pick one)

Origin & History

Compound of 可 (but, yet) and 是 (to be). Together they function as a single conjunction expressing contrast.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal