How to Say "But" in Finnish - How To Say Guide

mutta

/ˈmutːɑ/

The English word "but" can be translated into Finnish as mutta.

Mutta is a conjunction used to mean "except".

Meaning: except (conj)

Which one should you use?

While mutta is the standard word for "but", you may encounter kuitenkin, which translates more specifically to "however" or "nevertheless".

/ˈmutːɑ/

The word mutta is actually a linguistic survivor of a contraction, likely evolving from the word muuta, which means 'something else'.
Finnish speakers sometimes use mutta as a standalone exclamation to express mild protest or disbelief, similar to how an English speaker might say 'But…!' when interrupted.
In spoken Finnish, mutta is very frequently shortened to mut. This clipped version is so common that it is the primary form used in casual conversation across Finland.

Mutta sehän on ongelma.
But that is a problem.
This sentence shows how to use mutta to introduce a problem.
Tatoeba #7825980 by Thanuir, translation #12753142 by cmdaniels
Mutta ei kuoron edessä.
But not in front of the choir.
This sentence demonstrates the use of mutta to express a negative contrast.
Tatoeba #9712424 by Thanuir, translation #2504002 by raggione
Kiitos, mutta ei kiitos.
Thanks, but no thanks.
This sentence illustrates a common idiomatic way to use mutta when declining something.
Tatoeba #10179565 by Johannes_S, translation #67362 by CM
Juon kahvia joka aamu, mutta en pidä sen mausta.
I drink coffee every morning, but I don't like its taste.
Olin sairas, mutta menin töihin silti.
I was ill, but I still went to work.
994 more sentences on Tatoeba

Emma and Mikko are talking about their plans for the weekend.

Sources

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