Level B2 (Upper Intermediate)
👉 Learn the related conjunction cependant (however, yet) »
Today’s French word of the day is toutefois, which means however, yet, notwithstanding and nevertheless. In this lesson you will learn:
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Toutefois – however, yet, nonetheless
Pronunciation of toutefois
IPA /tutfwa/
Type of word
Toutefois: adverb
Example sentences
Il est très généreux envers sa famille. Toutefois, il n’est pas généreux envers lui-même.
He’s very generous towards his family. However, he’s not generous towards himself.
This sentence uses the verb réussir, which means to succeed. It can also means “to pass” as in passing an exam.
Elle a réussi son baccalauréat ; toutefois elle doit encore étudier.
She passed her baccalaureate. Nevertheless, she still has to study.
C’est un homme célèbre, toutefois les gens ne le reconnaissent pas dans la rue.
He’s a famous man. However, people don’t recognize him in the street.
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Cependant
Cependant also translates to however, yet, nevertheless and nonetheless. Cependant and toutefois are synonyms. Both words are considered formal language but cependant is slightly less formal. Both are used to express a contrast or opposition to what was previously stated.
Pourtant
Pourtant is another synonym for toutefois. Translations include however, yet and nevertheless. Pourtant often suggests an element of surprise or paradox. It’s less formal and is used much more frequently in spoken French.
