Translation and Meaning of: 然し - shikashi

The Japanese word 然し [しかし] is an essential term for anyone learning the language. It functions as a contrasting connective, similar to "but" or "however," but with nuances unique to the Japanese language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and even some curiosities that can help you memorize it. If you seek to understand how this word fits into Japanese communication, you are in the right place.

In addition to being a commonly used conjunction, 然し carries cultural and grammatical particularities that make it interesting. Its kanji, 然, has its own history, and the word appears in various contexts, from informal conversations to formal texts. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to uncover these details in a clear and helpful way for students and curious minds.

Meaning and usage of 然し [しかし]

In its most basic form, 然し expresses a contradiction or reservation, introducing an idea that contrasts with what was previously said. It is common in dialogues and argumentative texts, where the speaker wishes to present an opposing point or a limitation. For example, if someone says "The movie was good, 然し the ending was disappointing," the word underscores a shift in perspective.

Unlike some equivalents in Portuguese, 然し tends to be more neutral and less emphatic. While "however" can sound formal and "but" more colloquial, 然し fits well in various registers. This does not mean it is always interchangeable— in certain contexts, other conjunctions like でも or けれども may feel more natural, depending on the degree of contrast desired.

Origin and writing of the kanji 然

The kanji 然, which is part of the word, has an interesting etymology. Originally, it carried the meaning of "thus" or "in this way," but over time it gained more abstract uses. In the composition of 然し, it helps convey the idea of something that "presents itself in a certain way, but...", reinforcing the sense of contradiction.

It is worth noting that, although it is written with kanji in some contexts, しかし is often seen in hiragana, especially in more informal texts. This flexibility in writing is common in many Japanese particles and conjunctions, where the kanji version can give a more serious or literary tone to the text.

Tips for memorizing and using 然し correctly

A practical way to fix the meaning of 然し is to associate it with everyday situations where a contrast is evident. For example, think of sentences like "I studied a lot, 然し the exam was difficult." This type of construction helps internalize not only the meaning but also the natural position of the word in the sentence – usually at the beginning of a contradictory clause.

Another strategy is to pay attention to the use of 然し in animes, dramas, or articles in Japanese. Being a common word, it frequently appears in dialogues and narratives. Observing these real contexts can help you better understand when and how to use it, avoiding confusion with other similar conjunctions.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• しかし (shikashi) - however
• だが (daga) - Contudo
• ただ (tada) - Only, however
• ところが (tokoroga) - however, nonetheless
• にもかかわらず (ni mo kakawarazuu) - Despite that, despite this
• それにもかかわらず (sore ni mo kakawarazuu) - Apesar disso
• しかしながら (shikashi nagara) - However, nonetheless
• とはいえ (to wa ie) - However, still
• とはいうものの (to wa iu mono no) - However, it is said that
• それでも (sore demo) - Still, nonetheless
• それなのに (sore nanoni) - And even so, despite that
• それに対して (sore ni taishite) - on the other hand
• それに比べて (sore ni kurabete) - In comparison to this
• それに反して (sore ni hanshite) - Conversely
• それに対し (sore ni taishi) - In contrast to this
• それに対しても (sore ni taishite mo) - Even in relation to that

然し

Romaji: shikashi
Kana: しかし
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: However but

Meaning in English: however;but

Definition: But: A conjunction that expresses a negative conjunction. Represents something simple and not inferior to others.