Contrast: embora, mas, porém, entretanto

• mas = but (90% of spoken usage)

• porém = however (formal alternative)

• entretanto = nevertheless (most formal)

• embora = although (requires subjunctive)

• Mas: can start sentences colloquially

• Porém/entretanto: usually mid-sentence

• Embora: subordinating, not coordinating

• Register: mas < porém < entretanto

Choosing the right contrast word marks your register and education level! Using "mas" everywhere sounds basic, while dropping "entretanto" in casual conversation sounds pretentious. "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 Hierarchy

From informal to formal:

1. mas (informal/neutral)

   • Universal usage

   • All contexts except very formal

   • 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

Traditional grammar says no, but:

• Colloquial speech: very common

• Modern writing: increasingly accepted

• "Mas será que...?" standard

Porém in speech

Some speakers use "porém" casually:

• Regional (South Brazil)

• Sounds pretentious elsewhere

• Age marker (older speakers)