HSK 2
虽然……但是
suīrán…… dànshì
although…
Structure
虽然 + Point A, 但是 + Point B (contrasting point)
How it works
This conjunction pair is used to express contrast, meaning 'although... but...'. In Chinese, both parts of the pair are usually included in the sentence, unlike in English where you only use one.
Examples
虽然外面下雨，但是他出去了。
Suīrán wàimiàn xiàyǔ, dànshì tā chūqù le.
Although it is raining outside, he went out.
虽然汉字很难，但是很有意思。
Suīrán Hànzì hěn nán, dànshì hěn yǒuyìsi.
Although Chinese characters are difficult, they are very interesting.
虽然他没钱，但是他很漂亮。
Suīrán tā méi qián, dànshì tā hěn piàoliang.
Although he has no money, he is very handsome.
Common mistakes
English speakers often forget to include '但是' (but) because it feels redundant in English, but in Chinese, the pair is expected for proper flow.
Tip
In casual conversation, you can sometimes replace '但是' with '可是' (kěshì) or simply use '但' to sound more natural.
More HSK 2 grammar
See 虽然……但是 in real Chinese
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