Mais (en. But)

/mɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

conjunction

Marks opposition between two statements.

He wants to go out, but it’s raining.

Il veut sortir, mais il pleut.

Introduces a restriction or nuance.

It’s good, but not the best.

C'est bon, mais pas le meilleur.

Used to reinforce a point of view.

It’s a good idea, but we need to think about it.

C'est une bonne idée, mais il faut y réfléchir.

From Latin 'maius', meaning 'greater', in opposition.

but yes

Expression affirming an obviousness.

mais oui

but no

Expression of disagreement or surprise.

mais non

but it's obvious

Used to emphasize an obviousness.

mais c'est évident

but finally

Expresses impatience or disapproval.

mais enfin

however

Introduces a contrast similar to but.

cependant

yet

Marks the opposition between assertion and reality.

pourtant

nonetheless

Used to introduce a restriction in discourse.

toutefois

Used informally to introduce a surprise.

But that can't be true!

Mais c'est pas vrai !