不过 (búguò) — however
HSK 3 | conjunction | however, but — a softer contrast than 但是, often used in conversation
不过 (búguò)
不过 means however or but, used to introduce a mild contrast or qualification. It is softer and more conversational than 但是 (dànshì), making it ideal for gentle corrections or adding a caveat.
Meanings
- [conjunction] However; but; only (introducing a mild contrast or qualification).
- [adverb] Only; merely; nothing more than.
Example Sentences
这道菜很好吃，不过有点辣。 Zhè dào cài hěn hǎochī, búguò yǒu diǎn là. This dish is very tasty; however, it's a bit spicy.
我很想去，不过没有时间。 Wǒ hěn xiǎng qù, búguò méiyǒu shíjiān. I really want to go; however, I don't have time.
他说得不错，不过还有一些小错误。 Tā shuō de bùcuò, búguò hái yǒu yīxiē xiǎo cuòwù. He spoke well; however, there are still some small errors.
这不过是个小问题，不用担心。 Zhè búguò shì gè xiǎo wèntí, bú yòng dānxīn. This is merely a small problem; don't worry.
Collocations
| Collocation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 不过是 | merely; nothing but |
| 说不过 | can't argue against |
| 不过如此 | nothing more than this; that's all |
| 如此不过 | so, nothing more |
| 只不过 | merely; just |
Memory Hook
不 (not) plus 过 (pass/exceed): it does not exceed a certain point — it holds back with a gentle "but." A soft brake on the sentence.