でも
But; however
でも starts a contrasting statement in everyday conversation.
In plain language
でも at the start of a new sentence means “but” or “however.” It introduces a contrast with what was just said.
When to use it
Use it when the second idea is surprising or goes in a different direction: a shop is small, but useful; it is raining, but you still go out.
How to build it
Finish the first thought. Start the next sentence with でも, add a comma if helpful, and say the contrasting thought. It links two complete ideas.
A basic pattern
Sentence. + でも、+ contrasting sentence
Examples in context
The grammar point is shown in blue in each sentence.
この店は小さいです。でも、便利です。このみせはちいさいです。でも、べんりです。This shop is small, but it is convenient.
雨です。でも、出かけます。あめです。でも、でかけます。It is raining, but I will go out.
漢字は難しいです。でも、おもしろいです。かんじはむずかしいです。でも、おもしろいです。Kanji is difficult, but interesting.
Watch for this
安いでも、買いません。 → 安いです。でも、買いません。
Standalone でも begins the next sentence; it does not attach directly to an い-adjective here.
Quick practice: でも
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