不过
他很忙，不过他还是来了。
He's very busy, but he still came.
Used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea, similar to 'but' or 'however' in English.
天气不好，不过我们还是去了公园。
The weather was bad, but we still went to the park.
这本书很有趣，不过有点难懂。
This book is interesting, but it's a bit hard to understand.
Often used to soften a contrast or provide a counterpoint to a previous statement.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Positioning
Though it can appear at the beginning of a sentence, it is often placed after the subject or verb for smoother flow.
Gold Rule
Contrast Marker
Use '不过' to introduce a contrast or exception to a previous statement, similar to 'but' or 'however' in English.
Word Origin
Combination of '不' (not) and '过' (to pass), literally meaning 'not passing over' or 'not exceeding', used to introduce a contrasting idea.
Usage Notes
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Often placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a contrast.