cơ mà
Definition
- Conjunction:
- But / However / Yet: A colloquial conjunction used to introduce a contrasting idea, objection, or to soften a contradictory statement. It is similar to "nhưng" but often feels more conversational or emphatic.
- Though / Although: Used at the end of a clause to concede a point, similar to "though" in English.
Usage Examples
- Conjunction (contrast):
- Tôi muốn đi, cơ mà tôi bận. (I want to go, but I'm busy.)
- Đắt cơ mà tốt. (It's expensive but good.)
- Conjunction (softening / conceding):
- Cũng đẹp đấy cơ mà. (It's pretty, though.)
- Anh ấy nói hơi nhanh cơ mà. (He talks a bit fast, though.)
Advanced Usage
- Used to express a mild contradiction or to correct someone gently.
- Không phải thế. Thế này cơ mà. (Not like that. Like this, you see.)
- Can be used for emphasis when insisting on a point, often after a negative statement.
- Không có đâu! Có cơ mà! (There isn't any! Yes there is, I tell you!)
Variants and Related Words
- Nhưng mà: But, however (a more standard variant).
- Tôi thích nó, nhưng mà nó đắt quá. (I like it, but it's too expensive.)
- Mà: A more versatile and common conjunction for contrast.
- Nhỏ mà khỏe. (Small but strong.)
Synonyms
- But: Used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned.
- However: Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.
- Though: Used to introduce a contrasting consideration.
Notes on Usage
- "Cơ mà" is primarily used in spoken, informal Vietnamese. It is less formal than "nhưng" or "tuy nhiên".
- Its position can change the nuance. When used at the end of a sentence, it functions like the English "though" for concession.
- It often carries a tone of insistence, explanation, or seeking agreement from the listener.