aber
but
Introduces a contrast or limitation to something said previously.
EXAMPLE
Der Film war gut, aber sehr lang.
The film was good, but very long.
aber
but
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Meanings
aber
really
Used as a particle to emphasize a statement, often to express surprise, indignation, or agreement.
EXAMPLE
Das ist aber eine schöne Überraschung!
That really is a nice surprise!
aber
but
After a pause or interruption, introduces the return to the actual topic.
EXAMPLE
Aber um auf deine ursprüngliche Frage zurückzukommen: Ich glaube nicht, dass das funktioniert.
But to come back to your original question: I don't think that will work.
Usage tips
Word order
'Aber' (but) belongs to the conjunctions that have no influence on word order. When it connects two main clauses, it stands in 'position 0' and the verb of the second clause follows in position 2.
EXAMPLE
Ich würde gerne mitkommen, aber ich habe leider keine Zeit.
I would like to come along, but unfortunately I don't have time.
Position as a particle
When 'aber' (really) is used for emphasis, it is a particle and does not stand at the beginning of the sentence. It typically stands after the verb and emphasizes a quality or feeling, often in an exclamation.
EXAMPLE
Du kannst aber gut kochen!
You really can cook well!
Managing conversation
In the meaning 'back to the topic', 'aber' (but) is used to steer a conversation back to the original point after a digression. This is typical of spoken language.
EXAMPLE
Das war also mein Urlaub. Aber, was wolltest du mich eigentlich fragen?
So that was my vacation. But what did you actually want to ask me?
Compare with
aber vs und
and
Und and aber can connect two statements that are valid at the same time. Aber explicitly marks the contrast between them; und merely joins them, so any surprising tension comes from the content alone. Choose aber when the contrast should be clearly emphasized.
aber
Die Aufgabe ist schwierig, aber Lisa löst sie schnell.
The task is difficult, but Lisa solves it quickly.
und
Die Aufgabe ist schwierig, und Lisa löst sie schnell.
The task is difficult, and Lisa solves it quickly.
In real life
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