If you’re learning Telugu, one of the essential words you should familiarize yourself with is “but.” Similar to English, “but” is commonly used to express contrast or opposition in Telugu sentences. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “but” in Telugu, including both formal and informal expressions. Additionally, we will provide you with tips, examples, and discuss any regional variations that may exist.
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Formal Ways to Say “But” in Telugu
When you want to use a more formal tone or present your thoughts in a polite manner, the following expressions can be used:
- Kani – This is the most common way to say “but” in formal Telugu. It is a versatile word that can be used in both written and spoken communication. For example:
నేను దూరంగా వున్నాను, కానీ నేను తర్వాత రాకుండా రాను.
Nēnu dūraṅgā vunnānu, kānī nēnu tarvāta rākunda rānu.
I am far away, but I will come later.
Antey – This word is used when you want to add a contrasting or opposing statement. It is often used in formal writing or during serious discussions. For example:
మీరేమొ చేసినా నేను మళ్లీ శ్రమిస్తాను, అంతే నేను మీరు చాలా నిపుణుడు.
Mīrēmō cēsinā nēnu maḷḷī śramistānu, antē nēnu mīru cālā nipuṇuḍu.
Even if you do nothing, I will still work hard, but you are very skilled.
Informal Ways to Say “But” in Telugu
When speaking casually or with friends and family, you can use the following phrases:
- Kani kani – This is an informal way to say “but” in Telugu. It is often used in everyday conversations to express a contrast. For example:
మీరు కానీ కని చేయనున్నారు.
Mīru kānī kan̄i cēyanunnāru.
You said one thing, but you did something else.
Kaanee – This phrase is commonly used among friends and peers to highlight a contradiction. It adds a casual touch to the conversation. For example:
ఇప్పుడు అడిగించుకుంటే మీరు వెళ్లలేరు, కానీ ఈరోజు వెళ్లాము.
Ippuḍu aḍigiñcukunṭē mīru veḷlalēru, kānī īrōju veḷlāmu.
You said you won’t go today, but we should go today.
Regional Variations
Telugu, like any other language, may have regional variations in its vocabulary. However, when it comes to the word “but,” the expressions mentioned earlier are widely understood and used across different Telugu-speaking regions. Those variations mainly occur in colloquial words and phrases unrelated to the use of “but.”
Tips for Using “But” in Telugu
Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind when using the word “but” in Telugu:
- Pay attention to the context: Understand the context of the sentence to ensure the appropriate usage of “but” in Telugu.
- Practice pronunciation: Listen to native speakers and practice pronouncing the word “but” in Telugu to improve your language skills.
- Use appropriate intonation: The way you pronounce “but” can convey different tones and meanings, so focus on the intonation while speaking.
- Expand your vocabulary: While “but” is a useful word, try to learn other conjunctions and transition words to enhance your Telugu language skills.
Now, armed with this knowledge, you can confidently express contrasting ideas using various ways to say “but” in Telugu. Remember to practice, immerse yourself in the language, and enjoy your journey of learning Telugu!
