কিন্তু — meaning in English: But

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কিন্তু

kintu

হাসা

hasa

বেশি

beshi

অতসী

otashi

যাওয়া

yāoā

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'কিন্তু' (kintu) in everyday conversations to introduce a contrast or exception. For example, you might hear it when discussing plans with friends, such as, 'I want to go to the cinema, কিন্তু it's raining.' It is also common in debates or discussions where one wants to present an opposing view.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'কিন্তু' (kintu) means 'but', another synonym is 'তবে' (tobe), which can also mean 'however'. The difference lies in formality; 'কিন্তু' is more commonly used in everyday speech, while 'তবে' might be found in more formal contexts or writings.

Culture

'কিন্তু' (kintu) has its roots in classical Sanskrit, reflecting the rich linguistic heritage of Bengali. This word's usage can be traced back to ancient texts, showcasing its essential role in expressing contradictions and nuances in thought. Interestingly, in Bengali literature, 'কিন্তু' is often employed to add dramatic effect to narratives, making the text more engaging.

FAQ

Q.What does 'কিন্তু' mean in English?

'কিন্তু' translates to 'but' in English, and it's used to introduce a contrast or exception in a sentence.

Q.How is 'কিন্তু' used in a sentence?

You can use 'কিন্তু' to connect two contrasting ideas. For example, 'I like tea, কিন্তু I prefer coffee' shows a preference that contrasts with the first statement.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'কিন্তু'?

A common mistake is to use 'কিন্তু' when there is no contrasting idea. Ensure that the sentences linked by 'কিন্তু' present opposing thoughts for correct usage.

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Bengali Vocabulary