〜が、〜
but
Put the expectation and the surprising or different result together.
Remember it
Turn the sentence in a new direction with 〜が、〜.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜が、〜」 means "but". Structure: Sentence + が + Sentence. This is a JLPT N5 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Use it to contrast facts, expectations, people, choices, or results.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1水は好きですが、高いです。
みずはすきですが、たかいです。
mizuhasukidesuga, takaidesu.
I like water, but it is expensive.
Everyday life
Example 2かばんは好きですが、高いです。
かばんはすきですが、たかいです。
kabanhasukidesuga, takaidesu.
I like bag, but it is expensive.
Everyday life
Example 3時計は好きですが、高いです。
とけいはすきですが、たかいです。
tokeihasukidesuga, takaidesu.
I like clock, but it is expensive.
Everyday life
Example 4ご飯は好きですが、高いです。
ごはんはすきですが、たかいです。
gohanhasukidesuga, takaidesu.
I like rice, but it is expensive.
Everyday life
Example 5野菜は好きですが、高いです。
やさいはすきですが、たかいです。
yasaihasukidesuga, takaidesu.
I like vegetables, but it is expensive.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
I like water, but it is expensive.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜が、〜.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.