Contrast: embora, mas, porém, entretanto

Choosing the right contrast word helps express your register and tone! "Mas" is neutral in speech and writing; "entretanto" can give a more formal tone, depending on context. "Embora" shows advanced grammar with its subjunctive requirement. These words shape argument flow – from simple "but" contradictions to sophisticated concessions. Master these to participate in debates, write professionally, and understand everything from WhatsApp messages to legal documents.

Register Guidance

Typical tones, depending on context:

1. mas (informal/neutral)

   • Universal usage

   • All contexts, including formal writing

   • Spoken and written

2. porém (formal)

   • Written preference

   • Business communication

MAS in Daily Use

• "Quero ir, mas não tenho dinheiro" (I want to go, but I haven't got the money)

• "Mas você não disse isso ontem?" (But didn't you say that yesterday?)

• "Gosto dele, mas às vezes irrita" (I like him, but sometimes he's irritating)

• "Tentei, mas não consegui" (I tried, but I couldn't do it)

PORÉM in Formal Contexts

• "O projeto está aprovado, porém precisa de ajustes" (The project is approved, however it needs adjustments)

• "Concordamos com a proposta; porém, solicitamos alterações" (We agree with the proposal; however, we are requesting changes)

• "A economia cresceu, porém o desemprego persiste" (The economy grew, however unemployment persists)

• "Excelente trabalho, porém" (Excellent work, however...)

Mas starting sentences

A sentence-initial mas is grammatical; choose it to fit the text:

• Colloquial speech: very common

• Writing: also acceptable

• "Mas será que...?" standard

Porém in speech

Some speakers use "porém" casually:

• The context influences its tone

• It is not restricted to a single region

• Its use does not establish the speaker’s age