HSK 4 · VERSION 2.0#30
A Softer “But” with “bùguò”
不过
How it works
不过 (bùguò) means “but,” “however,” or “only that.” It is used to add a mild contrast.
Compared with 但是 (dànshì), 不过 (bùguò) often sounds softer and more natural in conversation.
The pattern
Clause 1, 不过 (bùguò) + Clause 2
Example sentences
这个办法不错，不过有点儿麻烦。
This method is good, but it is a little troublesome.
我很想去，不过今天没时间。
I really want to go, but I have no time today.
他人很好，不过有时候太着急。
He is a good person, but sometimes he gets too anxious.
Key point
不过 (bùguò) is especially common when the second part is not a strong contradiction, but just a mild limitation or problem.