Meaning
The particle が (ga) functions as a conjunction expressing contrast or transition between clauses. It typically connects statements where one expresses a positive quality and the other expresses a negative or contrasting quality. Common patterns include ～ですが (for adjectives and nouns) and ～ますが (for verbs). The contrast is essential—when both clauses share the same positive or negative tone, use て-form instead.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 形容词句 | ～ですが、～ |
| 动词句 | ～ますが、～ |
Examples
-
漢字の 勉強は 難しいですが、楽しいです。
Kanji study is difficult, but it's enjoyable. -
フランスの お酒は おいしいですが、高いです。
French wine is delicious, but it's expensive. -
わたしの 家は 安いですが、狭いです。
My house is cheap, but it's small. -
明日 京都に 行きますが、夜に 東京に 戻ります。
I'm going to Kyoto tomorrow, but I'll return to Tokyo in the evening. -
家から 駅までは 遠いですが、バスが あります。
Although it's far from my home to the station, there is a bus. -
学校に 行きましたが、先生に 会いませんでした。
I went to school, but I didn't meet the teacher.
Summary
- Use ～ですが or ～ますが to show contrast between two statements
- Essential: one clause must express positive meaning, the other negative or opposing meaning
- When both clauses have the same positive/negative tone, use て-form connector instead