JLPT N5 Grammar
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· Beginner
But / however (sentence-initial)
Category: Conjunctions & Reasons
The grammar pattern "でも" is used to show contrast or a different point of view between two sentences. It can be translated to 'but', 'however', or 'in addition'. Unlike "けど", which connects clauses within one sentence, "でも" connects two separate sentences. This pattern is often used to add a contrasting or additional point to a previous statement.
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Verb form | でも + Verb form | でも勉強しました |
| Noun form | でも + Noun form | でも公園に行きます |
| Adjective form | でも + Adjective form | でもおいしいです |
たくさん勉強しました。でも、テストは難しかったです。
Takusan benkyou shimashita. Demo, tesuto wa muzukashikatta desu.
I studied a lot. However, the test was difficult.
たくさん勉強しました (I studied a lot) / でも (but) / テストは難しかったです (the test was difficult)
今日は寒いです。でも、公園に行きます。
Kyō wa samui desu. Demo, kōen ni ikimasu.
It's cold today. However, we will go to the park.
今日は寒いです (It's cold today) / でも (but) / 公園に行きます (we will go to the park)
あの店は高いです。でも、おいしいです。
Ano mise wa takai desu. Demo, oishii desu.
That store is expensive. However, it's delicious.
あの店は高いです (That store is expensive) / でも (but) / おいしいです (it's delicious)
The grammar pattern "でも" is used to show contrast or a different point of view between two sentences. It is often used in casual conversations and writing. The register is informal. This pattern is similar to "けど", but "でも" connects two separate sentences, while "けど" connects clauses within one sentence.
This mistake occurs when the speaker tries to use "でも" to connect clauses within one sentence, but it is not the correct pattern to use in this situation.
This mistake occurs when the speaker confuses the two patterns and uses the wrong one in a sentence.
This mistake occurs when the speaker uses "でも" in formal writing or speaking, where more formal patterns are required.
In the JLPT exam, be careful to use the correct pattern "でも" to connect two separate sentences. Make sure to read the sentence carefully and use the correct pattern to show contrast or a different point of view.
たくさん勉強しました。______、テストは難しかったです。
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