可是 kě shì
“but; however; (used for emphasis) indeed”
conjunction, adverb, verbHSK 4 · 2021 list level 2
新HSK等级2025 HSK 3.0 syllabus level
可是 appears in the November 2025 exam syllabus in the following numbered entry. Levels refer to the listed reading and use, not every meaning.
- Entry 733: 可是 kěshì — Level 3; official annotation 3 (连). PDF page 98
Separate from the HSK 2.0 and 2021 list labels above. Compare the three lists.
用法How to use 可是
可是 means "but" or "however" and introduces a contrasting second clause in everyday conversation. It usually comes at the start of the second clause, and it can pair with 虽然 in the first clause (虽然…，可是…).
例句Example sentences
- 我想去，可是今天太忙了。wǒ xiǎng qù, kě shì jīn tiān tài máng le.I want to go, but I’m too busy today.
- 这件衣服很好看，可是太贵了。zhè jiàn yī fu hěn hǎo kàn, kě shì tài guì le.This piece of clothing looks nice, but it’s too expensive.
- 他说会来，可是他还没来。tā shuō huì lái, kě shì tā hái méi lái.He said he would come, but he still hasn’t come.
易混词Easily confused
可是vs但是
Both mean "but"; 可是 is more conversational and often softer, while 但是 is more formal or written and can sound stronger.