Pero and Sino - How To Say 'But' in Spanish

Have you ever wondered what’s the difference between PERO and SINO in Spanish? This is a difference that doesn't exist in most languages and it’s a key point when you are trying to learn Spanish and Spanish grammar.

Take a look at this table to find out more:

As the chart indicates, the differences between Pero and Sino are as follows:

We use Pero when we want to add an idea that contrasts with what we've said before. 

ex: I know Moscow, but I don't like it. -- This 'but' would be 'pero' in Spanish.

The first part of the sentence can be affirmative ore negative

ex: I don't know Moscow, but I would love to go at some point in my life. -- Here it 'but' means 'pero' too.

We use Sino when we are adding an idea that corrects the previous one.

ex: I don't have a cat, but a dog.

The second idea is an alternative to the first option, or it's just trying to correct the first idea.

Be careful! To use Sino the first idea must be negative.

ex.: I haven't been in San Petersburg, but in Moscow.

If you like, you can download the PERO AND SINO chart as a PDF.

Now, why don’t you try to do this online exercise about Pero and Sino?

If you enjoyed this post, check out our blog to find more free Spanish exercises that you may use to learn Spanish. You can also request a trial class at ELINQUA, so you find out what our online Spanish lessons are like!