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Intermediate
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Jeremy’s English Tips Episode #26: The difference between but, though, and although

Release Date: 12 Jan, 1000

In this episode, I am going to teach you about the difference between these three words: but, though, and although. These three words technically mean the same thing, but the way that they are used is different. And they have some very subtle differences. Subtle differences are very small, hard to notice differences. So, I will do my best in this episode to explain those to you and then to give you some examples.

All right, so let’s start with “but.” Now, the word “but” is a word we use to negate something. “Negate” is a rather difficult word, but it is related to the word “negative.” So, to negate something means to put an X on it, to cancel out that other thing, or to say the opposite. For example, “I like apples, but I don’t eat them often.” Notice in this example, that the word “but” is in the middle of the sentence, and it comes after a verbal pause. “I like apples – pause – but I don’t eat them often.” This verbal pause shows up in writing as a comma.  So if you are a Culips premium member, and you are following along right now with the study guide, you will see the comma on the page there.  So the word “but” we can say means “complete negation”.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

~9 minutes
Intermediate
JET Mobile

Jeremy’s English Tips Episode #26: The difference between but, though, and although

Release Date: 12 Jan, 1000
~9 minutes

In this episode, I am going to teach you about the difference between these three words: but, though, and although. These three words technically mean the same thing, but the way that they are used is different. And they have some very subtle differences. Subtle differences are very small, hard to notice differences. So, I will do my best in this episode to explain those to you and then to give you some examples.

All right, so let's start with “but.” Now, the word “but” is a word we use to negate something. "Negate" is a rather difficult word, but it is related to the word “negative.” So, to negate something means to put an X on it, to cancel out that other thing, or to say the opposite. For example, “I like apples, but I don't eat them often.” Notice in this example, that the word “but” is in the middle of the sentence, and it comes after a verbal pause. "I like apples - pause - but I don't eat them often.” This verbal pause shows up in writing as a comma.  So if you are a Culips premium member, and you are following along right now with the study guide, you will see the comma on the page there.  So the word “but” we can say means "complete negation".

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Culips is podcast for English language learners who want to get awesome at English. We think it is important to learn English how it is really spoken and that’s why our lessons are always focused on real, current English. Learn to speak like a native and understand everything with Culips!  Test
Culips is really different than other English courses and podcasts. Our hosts are kind, funny, and professional. Our podcasts and lessons are designed to help you become fluent in conversational, North American English.  Here are some things you might not know about our hosts:
  • They are Canadian and American
  • Have master’s degrees and work in professions related to English education (Andrew is a university English professor, Suzanne is a pronunciation coach and voice actor, and Morag is a writer).
  • Actively study second languages as adults. Our team understands the ups and downs of studying foreign languages as adults who live busy lives.
At Culips, we make English understandable through our five different series: Chatterbox Listen to real English conversations between native speakers as we talk about current events, share funny stories, or interview fascinating guests. Become a fluent listener, get exposure to Western culture, and learn the ins and outs of natural English conversations all at the same time. Catch Word Learn natural English expressions, idioms, and phrasal verbs. We teach you everyday English vocabulary that native speakers actually use. Sound like a native speaker with Catch Word. Simplified Speech Do you get stressed out by English? Do native speakers talk too fast? Don’t worry! We’re here to help. In Simplified Speech, we use 100% natural English, but we speak more slowly than we do in our everyday lives. This series is great for all levels of learners but is specifically designed with high beginner-intermediate students in mind. Real Talk In our In our Real Talk series we teach you the practical English you need know when visiting or living in an English speaking country. Each episode examines a specific situation such as ordering at a restaurant, renting an apartment, or getting a refund. Speak Easy Speak Easy is the show that teaches you how to pronounce English the way native speakers do. Learn tips and tricks that will make your English pronunciation clear and understandable with Speak Easy.
The best way to study with Culips is with our study guides.