зато

zato — but at least / on the other hand / to make up for it

What it really means

"Зато" introduces a compensating positive after a negative or a drawback. It is a contrastive conjunction that says: yes, there is a downside — BUT here is what makes up for it. It always follows something negative (stated or implied).

"Зато" cannot be used to contrast two positives. It specifically connects a flaw or disadvantage to a redeeming quality.

Examples in natural speech

Квартира маленькая, зато дешёвая.
The flat is small, but at least it's cheap.
Он много работает, зато хорошо зарабатывает.
He works a lot, but on the other hand he earns well.
Не получилось выиграть, зато опыт получили.
We didn't win, but at least we gained experience.
Дорого, зато качество хорошее.
It's expensive, but the quality is good to make up for it.
Плохо готовит, зато убирается.
Can't cook, but at least he cleans.

Common mistakes

Using "зато" after a positive. It only works after a negative or drawback. "Он добрый, зато умный" sounds wrong — both are positives. Use "зато" when the first part has a flaw you want to offset.

Memory tip

"Зато" = the silver lining. When something goes wrong or falls short, "зато..." offers the bright side to compensate.

Frequently asked questions

What does зато mean in Russian?

"Зато" means "but at least," "on the other hand," or "to make up for it." It introduces a compensating positive after a negative: "Маленький, зато уютный" = "Small, but at least cosy."

How do you use зато in a sentence?

"Зато" always follows something negative or a drawback. Put the drawback first, then "зато [redeeming quality]." "Тяжело, зато честно" = "It's hard, but at least it's honest."

What is the difference between зато and но?

"Но" is a plain "but" — it introduces any contrast. "Зато" specifically compensates: it says "yes, there's a downside, BUT this makes up for it." "Но" is neutral; "зато" implies compensation.

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