mais pourquoi ?
The English phrase "but why" is translated into French as mais pourquoi ?
The phrase is a question used to ask for the reason for something, and it often expresses surprise or confusion.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of mais, which means "but" and pourquoi, which means "why".
How does it change in a sentence?
In standard French typography, the question mark is preceded by a small space, as seen in mais pourquoi ? However, this spacing is often ignored in casual digital typing.
Did you know?
- The word mais actually comes from the Latin 'magis', which means 'more'.
- In informal texting, a French speaker might shorten the phrase to pk or pq for 'pourquoi'.
- The term pourquoi is also used as a noun in French to refer to a 'reason' or 'cause', such as in the phrase 'le pourquoi du comment'.
Examples in context
- Vous dites que le projet est annulé, mais pourquoi?You say the project is canceled, but why?
- Excusez-moi, mais pour quelle raison avez-vous pris cette décision?Excuse me, but for what reason did you make this decision?
- J'ai décidé de partir en voyage demain, mais pourquoi, en fait?I've decided to go on a trip tomorrow, but why, actually?
- Tu vas déménager? Mais pourquoi donc?You're moving? But why then?
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are discussing a change in their weekend plans.
- NathanOn ne va plus au cinéma ce soir.We are not going to the cinema tonight anymore.
- ManonMais pourquoi ?But why?
- NathanParce que la voiture est en panne.Because the car has broken down.
- ManonOh, c'est vraiment dommage.Oh, that's a real shame.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mais, pourquoi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
