sí, pero
Lemma Details
Translation: yes, but; yeah, but
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'sí' (yes) from Latin 'sic' (thus, so) and 'pero' (but) from Latin 'per hoc' (through this). The combination creates a conversational hedge that acknowledges a point while preparing to present a counterargument.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Sí, pero no creo que sea una buena idea.
Yes, but I don't think it's a good idea.
Sí, pero tenemos que considerar las consecuencias.
Yes, but we have to consider the consequences.
Entiendo tu punto, sí, pero hay otros factores a considerar.
I understand your point, yes, but there are other factors to consider.
Mnemonics
- Think of the English 'see, but...' which sounds similar to 'sí, pero' and conveys the same meaning of acknowledging before countering.
- Imagine a see-saw (sí) that goes up, but (pero) then comes back down - representing the back-and-forth nature of this phrase in conversation.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is extremely common in Spanish conversation and debate. It's often used to politely disagree or to soften the impact of a counterargument. In Spanish culture, which values harmony in conversation, this phrase helps maintain rapport while still expressing disagreement.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Sí, pero' (with an accent on 'sí') means 'yes, but' while 'si pero' (without an accent) would incorrectly combine 'if' with 'but'.
Confused word:
Si vienes, pero llegas tarde, no podremos entrar.
If you come, but you arrive late, we won't be able to enter.
Notes: The accent mark on 'sí' is crucial for distinguishing between 'yes' and 'if' in Spanish.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'sí' with an accent means 'yes' while 'si' without an accent means 'if'.
Explanation: 'Sí, pero' acknowledges something before presenting a contrast, while 'sino' directly contradicts a negative statement without first acknowledging it.
Confused word:
No es rojo sino azul.
It's not red but blue.
Notes: 'Sino' is used after negative statements to present an alternative, while 'sí, pero' acknowledges something before presenting a contrast.
Mnemonic: 'Sí, pero' is like saying 'I hear you, BUT...' while 'sino' is like saying 'NOT this, BUT that' instead.