Conjunction · A1 · Spanish glossary

Pero: but

pero

Pronunciation: PEH-roh (stress the capital letters)

Pero means “but” in English.

Quick answer

Meaning: but
How to say it: PEH-roh
Level: Beginner (A1)

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What “pero” means and how to use it

Pero means “but.” It adds a contrast or limit to what you just said.

Examples with audio

Quiero ir, pero no puedo.I want to go, but I cannot.
Es pequeño, pero cómodo.It is small, but comfortable.
Estudio mucho, pero no entiendo.I study a lot, but I do not understand.

Usage tip

Use pero for a general “but.” Use “sino” after a negative to correct something: no es rojo, sino azul. Do not confuse “pero” (but) with “perro” (dog).

Frequently asked questions

How do you say “but” in Spanish?

“but” in Spanish is “pero.” It is pronounced PEH-roh, with the stress on the syllable in capital letters.

How do you pronounce “pero”?

Say PEH-roh. The syllable in capital letters gets the stress. Press the speaker button at the top of this page to hear it.

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