aber
but · though, however
Aber means 'but' and is used to contrast two ideas or to express a contradiction. It can also be used as a particle to add emphasis or surprise, often in spoken German.
What aber means
- but — Used to connect two clauses or sentences that contrast with each other.
- though, however — Used as a particle to emphasize a statement, often in spoken German, without changing the basic meaning.
Heard in real German videos
Lines where aber was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Nein, ich bestehe aber darauf, Chanel.No, but I insist, Chanel.
- Aber Ananas sind nicht rot.But pineapples aren't red.
Example sentences
- Ich möchte kommen, aber ich habe keine Zeit.I would like to come, but I have no time.
- Das Buch ist teuer, aber es ist sehr gut.The book is expensive, but it is very good.
- Er ist klein, aber stark.He is small but strong.
Common phrases
- aber hallo!you bet! / absolutely!
- aber sicher!but of course!
- nicht nur ... sondern auch ...not only ... but also ...
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers sometimes place the verb directly after 'aber' as in English, but in German the verb remains in second position: 'Aber ich habe keine Zeit' not 'Aber habe ich keine Zeit'.
Don’t confuse it with
- sondern — Use 'sondern' after a negative to express 'but rather' when correcting something, while 'aber' simply contrasts without correction.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between 'aber' and 'sondern'?
Use 'sondern' after a negative clause to introduce a correction, e.g., 'Das ist nicht rot, sondern blau.' Use 'aber' for general contrast, e.g., 'Es ist klein, aber fein.'
Can 'aber' be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, 'aber' can start a sentence to contrast with the previous statement, just like 'but' in English.
How do you use 'aber' as a particle?
As a particle, 'aber' adds emphasis or surprise, e.g., 'Das war aber teuer!' (That was really expensive!). It does not change the sentence structure.