Learning Conjunctions: "et" and "mais"

Conjunctions help us connect ideas in French. Two very common ones are "et" (and) and "mais" (but). It's important to know how these words change the meaning of your sentences so you can communicate better.

1. Using "et" (and)

• What it does: "et" is used to add more information.
• Example:
  • Je mange une pomme et une banane.
    (I eat an apple and a banana.)

In this sentence, "et" links two things (apple and banana), showing that both are being eaten.

2. Using "mais" (but)

• What it does: "mais" is used to show contrast or differences.
• Example:
  • Je mange une pomme, mais je n'aime pas les bananes.
    (I eat an apple, but I do not like bananas.)

Here, "mais" highlights two different statements: eating an apple and not liking bananas.

3. Making Sentences

When you build sentences, think about how you want to connect your ideas:

• Using "et":

  • Il aime jouer au foot et il aime faire du vélo.
    (He likes to play soccer and he likes to ride a bike.)

• Using "mais":

  • Elle est gentille, mais elle est parfois sérieuse.
    (She is kind, but she is sometimes serious.)

4. Practice

Try making your own sentences with "et" and "mais." This will help you write and speak better. It will also improve how you understand and share your thoughts in French.