How to Use “Pero” vs. “Sino” Correctly in Spanish: A Complete Guide


Learning Spanish can be exciting, but small words like “pero” and “sino” often confuse learners. Both words translate roughly to “but” in English, but they are used in different contexts. Misusing them can change the meaning of a sentence entirely. In this guide, we’ll explain the differences, provide examples, and give tips so you can use pero vs. sino correctly every time.

The Difference Between “Pero” and “Sino”

1. Pero – “But” for Contrast

Pero is the most common way to say “but” in Spanish. Use it to contrast two ideas, without negating the first one.

Examples:

  • Quiero ir al cine, pero estoy cansado.
    (I want to go to the movies, but I’m tired.)

  • Me gusta el chocolate, pero prefiero el helado.
    (I like chocolate, but I prefer ice cream.)

Key point: Pero is used to add a contrasting idea, not to correct a previous statement.

2. Sino – “But Rather / Instead”

Sino is used when the first part of the sentence is negated, and you want to correct or replace it. It’s like saying “but rather” or “instead” in English.

Examples:

  • No quiero café, sino té.
    (I don’t want coffee, but rather tea.)

  • No estudia español, sino francés.
    (He doesn’t study Spanish, but French instead.)

Key point: Sino always follows a negative statement and introduces the correct alternative.

3. Sino que – For Full Clause Replacement

When the second part of the sentence is a full clause with a verb, use sino que instead of sino.

Examples:

  • No fui al cine, sino que me quedé en casa.
    (I didn’t go to the movies, but I stayed home instead.)

  • No compró el libro, sino que lo pidió en línea.
    (She didn’t buy the book, but ordered it online.)

Tip: Think of sino que as “but rather + verb phrase.”

Quick Rules to Remember

Word Use When… Example
Pero You are adding a contrast Quiero salir, pero llueve.
Sino You are correcting a negation with a replacement No quiero pizza, sino pasta.
Sino que You are correcting a negation with a full clause No fui a la tienda, sino que cociné.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  1. Using “sino” without negation
    ❌ Me gusta el chocolate, sino prefiero el helado.
    ✅ Me gusta el chocolate, pero prefiero el helado.

  2. Forgetting “que” after “sino” for clauses
    ❌ No fui al parque, sino jugué videojuegos.
    ✅ No fui al parque, sino que jugué videojuegos.

  3. Mixing “pero” and “sino” in the same sentence incorrectly
    ✅ Correct: No quiero café, sino té.
    ❌ Incorrect: No quiero café, pero té.

Tips for Mastery

  • Remember: Pero = contrast, Sino = correction

  • Look for the negative statement to decide if you need sino.

  • Practice with short sentences first, then progress to longer, more complex ones.

  • Read Spanish articles or books and notice how native speakers use both words.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between pero and sino is essential for speaking and writing Spanish clearly. Pero adds a contrast, while sino replaces or corrects a negated idea. Using sino que allows you to handle full clauses correctly. With practice, you’ll never confuse these small but powerful words again.

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