Japanese grammar
What does A。だが B。 mean? Japanese grammar N2
A。だが B。 means but; however (written style).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Sentence A。だが、sentence B。 |
| Romaji | A.daga B. |
| Meaning | but; however (written style) |
Forming it
| Written style | 値段は高い。だが、味は確かだ。 |
|---|
How to use it
A contrastive connector in written or narrative style. Terse and blunt, common in novels and editorials.
- 「だが」 = but. Same meaning as 「しかし」 but blunter and terser, commonly seen in writing and narration.
- NOT used in polite conversation — saying 「だが」 to a customer sounds very curt; use 「ですが／しかし」 there instead.
- Register scale for contrast: でも (casual) → ですが (polite) → しかし (standard) → だが (written, blunt).
Examples
この店は値段が高い。だが、味は確かだ。
This restaurant is expensive. But the taste is reliable.
彼は疲れていた。だが、仕事を終えるまで休まなかった。
He was tired. Yet he did not rest until the work was done.
Keep in mind
- Written style; polite conversation uses 「ですが」.
- Comes at the start of the following sentence.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong（お客様に）承知しました。だが、少々お時間をいただきます。
I understand. However, please give me a moment.
Correct（お客様に）承知しました。ですが、少々お時間をいただきます。
Speaking to a customer requires 「ですが」.
-
Wrong値段は高いだが、味はいい。
The price is high. But the taste is good.
Correct値段は高い。だが、味はいい。
「だが」 begins the following sentence; to connect within one sentence, use 「が」.
Exam tips
- 「だが」 = but (written, blunt); use 「ですが」 in polite speech.