Translation guide
The English word "however" is used to introduce a contrast or exception. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is しかし (shikashi), but other expressions like でも (demo), けれども (keredomo), and だが (daga) are used depending on formality and context. This guide covers the main ways to express contrast in Japanese, from casual to formal.
To introduce a statement that contrasts with or contradicts the previous one, similar to 'but' or 'nevertheless'.
The most standard and neutral way to say 'however' or 'but'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese, and can be used in formal and informal settings.
彼は頭がいい。しかし、時々ミスをする。
He is smart. However, he sometimes makes mistakes.
A casual way to say 'but' or 'however'. Commonly used in everyday conversation. Not typically used in formal writing.
この映画は面白い。でも、少し長い。
This movie is interesting. However, it's a bit long.
A slightly formal or literary way to say 'however' or 'although'. Often shortened to けれど or けど in casual speech.
努力した。けれども、成功しなかった。
I made an effort. However, I did not succeed.
A somewhat formal or written way to say 'however' or 'but'. Often used in essays, articles, or formal speeches. Can sound stiff in casual conversation.
この計画は完璧だ。だが、実行は難しい。
This plan is perfect. However, execution is difficult.
Used to introduce an unexpected contrast or surprising result. Often translated as 'however' or 'but to my surprise'. More common in written or narrative contexts.
彼に電話した。ところが、留守だった。
I called him. However, he wasn't home.
To express that something is true no matter how much or in whatever way, as in 'however you look at it' or 'however hard you try'.
This pattern means 'no matter how...' or 'however...'. It is used with verbs or adjectives to indicate that regardless of the degree, the result is the same.
どんなに頑張っても、彼には勝てない。
However hard I try, I can't beat him.
Similar to どんなに～ても, meaning 'no matter how much' or 'however much'. Often used with verbs.
いくら考えても、答えがわからない。
However much I think, I can't figure out the answer.
A formal or literary equivalent of どんなに～ても. Used in written language or formal speeches.
いかに努力しても、成功するとは限らない。
However hard you try, success is not guaranteed.
To indicate that something can be done in any manner or by any method, as in 'however you like'.
Means 'in whatever way' or 'however'. Used to say that the manner does not affect the outcome.
どのように説明しても、彼は納得しなかった。
However I explained it, he wasn't convinced.
Literally 'as you like', used to mean 'however you want' or 'in whatever way you prefer'.
好きなように使ってください。
Please use it however you like.
しかし is the most versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. でも is casual and mainly used in conversation. だが is formal and often appears in writing or speeches. Choose based on the level of formality required.
In formal Japanese writing, starting every contrasting sentence with しかし can sound repetitive. Consider using けれども, だが, or sentence-ending particles like が to vary the structure.