cependant
/sə.pɑ̃.dɑ̃/conjunction★Intermediate
formal
A conjunction used to introduce a contrasting idea or exception, similar to 'however' or 'nevertheless' in English.
Elle aime le chocolat, cependant elle ne peut pas en manger à cause de son allergie.
She loves chocolate, however she can't eat it because of her allergy.
💡
Often used in formal writing and speech to contrast two ideas.
Collocations
cependant quealthough
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'cependant' in formal contexts; for casual speech, 'mais' or 'pourtant' are more common.
⚡Gold Rule
Contrast Marker
Always introduces a contrast or exception, similar to 'however' in English.
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'ce pendant', meaning 'this while' or 'during this time'.
📝Usage Notes
More formal than 'mais' or 'pourtant', often used in writing or formal speech to introduce a contrast.
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais