What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whereas
Example
I love playing soccer, whereas my brother prefers basketball. [whereas: conjunction]
Example
She is very outgoing, whereas her sister is quite shy. [whereas: conjunction]
Example
The first book was long and complicated, whereas the second was short and simple. [whereas: conjunction]
but
Example
I wanted to go to the party, but I had to study for my exam. [but: conjunction]
Example
I like all fruits, but I don't like bananas. [but: conjunction]
Example
He is very smart, but he can be lazy sometimes. [but: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
But is more commonly used than whereas in everyday language, and it is more versatile and can be used in various contexts and situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between whereas and but?
Whereas is typically associated with a more formal tone and is often used in academic or legal writing, while but can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
