All Ears English Podcast: AEE 2357 – But What About Conjunctions? English Grammar for Contrasts
Hosts: Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Introduction to Conjunctions: But vs. Though
In Episode 2357 of the All Ears English Podcast, hosts Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan delve into the nuanced differences between the conjunctions "but" and "though." Building on a listener's question, the episode aims to clarify when and how to appropriately use these commonly confused words to enhance English fluency and natural conversation skills.
Listener's Question and Episode Inspiration
The episode kicks off with Lindsay and Michelle addressing a question from a YouTube viewer, satv1gt, who inquired about the differences between "but" and "though" and whether one can appear in the middle of phrases while the other ends them. Michelle introduces the episode as a continuation of a previous discussion on "though" from episode 2346, encouraging listeners to catch up if they haven't tuned in yet.
Michelle: "What a good morning. Thanks to you, Lindsay and Aubrey. You're doing a great job. I love this so much. It's an amazing morning because I listened to the All Ears English podcast." [03:18]
Understanding "But" as a Coordinating Conjunction
Michelle explains that "but" is typically used mid-sentence to connect two independent clauses, highlighting a contrast between them. She provides clear examples to illustrate its usage:
Michelle: "We don't usually eat out, but we didn't feel like cooking today." [05:51]
Lindsay: "I was supposed to have class today, but it canceled." [05:33]
Lindsay adds that "but" not only links contrasting ideas but also helps in varying tone, preventing monotony in speech.
Lindsay: "The conjunction 'but' allows you to have kind of a benchmark or a sign post or separation in what you're saying. So you're not monotone." [06:15]
When to Use "Though" Instead of "But"
While "but" serves as a standard conjunction for contrasts, "though" offers a more flexible placement within sentences—at the beginning, middle, or end. Michelle emphasizes that "though" often adds spontaneity and emphasis to the contrast being presented.
Michelle: "You're thinking out loud and this is a lot of what we do in English... It's fluid, it's flexible." [09:20]
She demonstrates this with examples:
Lindsay: "I'm hoping Mark comes to the party, though he didn't come last time, so I doubt it." [09:46]
Michelle: "I'm hoping Mark comes to the party, but he didn't come last time, so I doubt it." [09:37]
Lindsay notes that starting a sentence with "though" can add a layer of spontaneity, making the conversation feel more natural and less rigid compared to the more structured "but."
Lindsay: "The way we speak our native languages or English is we're thinking of what's going on as we're saying it exactly right." [08:59]
Starting Sentences with "But" in Conversational English
Addressing common academic advice against starting sentences with "but," Lindsay and Michelle clarify that in everyday conversation, beginning a sentence with "but" is perfectly acceptable and can enhance the flow of dialogue.
Michelle: "If you are speaking, absolutely, there's no reason not to [start with 'but']." [08:20]
Lindsay: "Never let the rules of writing a paper get in the way of connection." [08:44]
They provide a mini role-play to exemplify this usage:
Lindsay: "I'm leaving at 4:30 for the game." [07:41]
Michelle: "But I thought you had to be there at four." [07:44]
This exchange illustrates how "but" can effectively introduce a contrasting point within a natural conversation.
Exploring Expressions with "If," "But," and "Though"
The hosts introduce fun expressions that incorporate these conjunctions, enriching the conversational repertoire of ESL learners.
-
"No ifs, ands, or buts": This phrase conveys certainty or definitiveness, often used to dismiss excuses.
Michelle: "No ifs, ands, or buts. This is a great expression that means certainly or definitely." [11:43]
Example in context:
Michelle: "We're going to Disneyland this year. No ifs, ands, or buts." [11:56]
-
"No buts": A shortened version of the above, used similarly to emphasize that no excuses will be accepted.
Michelle: "We might also just say no buts. We'll just say, 'No excuses.'" [12:31]
Demonstration through role-play:
Michelle: "No buts. You have to be there." [12:19]
Lindsay: "Yes. You're coming." [12:45]
These expressions serve to assert intentions or decisions firmly yet playfully, fostering engaging interactions.
Role-Playing Conversations to Demonstrate Usage
To solidify understanding, Lindsay and Michelle engage in role-plays that showcase the practical application of "but" and "though," as well as the expressions discussed.
Family Reunion Scenario:
Lindsay: "I'm so glad you made it. Your parents usually come, but I don't think I've seen you at one of these before." [12:55]
Michelle: "I know it's the first time I've been able to attend. Something always comes up. But this time I was like, I'm going, no ifs, ands, or buts." [13:11]
Michelle: "Though she did beat me at Uno this morning." [13:22]
In this exchange:
- "But" is used to contrast previous absence with current attendance.
- "No ifs, ands, or buts" emphasizes the decision to attend.
- "Though" introduces a spontaneous, contrasting thought, adding humor and relatability.
Lindsay highlights the subtle differences in using "but" versus "though," noting that "though" can introduce an unplanned contrast, enhancing conversational flow.
Lindsay: "You just hear it a lot. You can absolutely use it." [08:20]
Key Takeaways and Conclusions
The episode wraps up with Lindsay and Michelle summarizing the critical points about "but" and "though":
-
"But" is a reliable conjunction for introducing contrasts within sentences, suitable for both written and spoken English.
Michelle: "But is typically in the middle of a sentence as a coordinating conjunction connects two independent clauses." [05:23]
-
"Though" offers flexibility and spontaneity, often used to emphasize contrasts in spoken conversation.
Michelle: "It's fluid, it's flexible. So often you just throw it in because you realize I need to emphasize this contrast." [09:20]
-
Starting Sentences with "But" is acceptable in conversational English, enhancing natural dialogue and preventing monotony.
Michelle: "If you are speaking, absolutely, there's no reason not to." [08:20]
-
Expressions like "No ifs, ands, or buts" and "No buts" are useful for emphasizing certainty and dismissing excuses, adding color to everyday interactions.
Michelle: "This is good. So for me, it's more common to hear no ifs, ands, or buts." [12:45]
Lindsay and Michelle encourage listeners to practice these conjunctions and expressions to achieve more natural and fluent English communication, emphasizing that mastering these subtle differences can significantly enhance conversational skills.
Lindsay: "Connection and verbal expression is so different from writing a paper. Never let the rules of writing a paper get in the way of connection." [08:44]
Next Steps for Listeners
Listeners are encouraged to:
- Listen to Part One (AEE 2346): For a foundational understanding of "though."
- Subscribe to the IELTS Energy Podcast: To access part three of the series, which will cover additional linking phrases for contrast.
- Engage with the Community: Practice using "but" and "though" in conversations and explore the expressions like "no ifs, ands, or buts" to solidify their grasp of these conjunctions.
Michelle: "Your next action listeners, go over to 2346. Listen to part one of this series and then go and subscribe." [16:42]
By dissecting the intricate uses of "but" and "though," Episode 2357 equips ESL learners with the tools to navigate contrasts in English seamlessly, fostering both grammatical accuracy and conversational fluency.