datapwat

But / Nevertheless

Level 6

Datapwat is a formal coordinating conjunction used to introduce a statement of strong contrast. It is the literary equivalent of the English 'but' or 'however' and is much more formal than pero or subalit.

How It Works

1. Usage and Register
Datapwat belongs to the highest register of the Filipino language. You will primarily encounter it in classical poetry, formal academic texts, and oratorical speeches. In formal writing, authors often use a hierarchy of contrast (ngunit > subalit > datapwat) to avoid repetition when multiple contrasting points are made in sequence.

2. Syntax and Spelling
It typically appears at the start of a second clause to contrast with the first. According to the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), the standard modern spelling is datapwat. The traditional spelling datapwa't (with an apostrophe) is now considered obsolete and incorrect in modern standardized orthography. Unlike gayunman, which often starts a new sentence, datapwat usually functions as a bridge between two clauses within the same sentence.

3. Nuance of Contrast
While ngunit and subalit are standard formal choices, datapwat is a pangatnig na paninsay (adversative conjunction) that signals a very strong opposition between two ideas. Using it in casual conversation is often perceived as 'pa-deep' (trying to sound overly profound or archaic).

Examples (4)

  1. Nag-aral siyang mabuti, datapwat hindi pa rin siya nakapasa sa pagsusulit.

    He studied hard, but he still did not pass the exam.

    Word by Word: Studied he well, but not yet also he passed in-the exam.

    This demonstrates the standard formal use of 'datapwat' to contrast effort with a negative result.

  2. Mali ang iyong ginawa, datapwat hindi kita sinisisi.

    What you did was wrong, nevertheless I do not blame you.

    Word by Word: Wrong the your done, but not you (I) blame.

    Here, 'datapwat' introduces a concessive contrast, similar to 'nevertheless' in English.

  3. Datapwat sinasabi ko sa inyo, Ibigin ninyo ang inyong mga kaaway.

    But I say to you, Love your enemies.

    Word by Word: But saying I to you, Love you the your (plural) enemies.

    A classic example of the biblical register where 'datapwat' starts a sentence for dramatic emphasis.

  4. Ang katotohanan ay masakit, datapwat kailangan itong tanggapin.

    The truth is painful, yet it must be accepted.

    Word by Word: The truth is painful, but need this-to accept.

    In formal essays, 'datapwat' is used to link a difficult reality with a necessary action.

Common Mistakes

  • Using 'datapwat' in casual, everyday conversation.

    Gusto ko ng kape, datapwat wala akong pera.
    Gusto ko ng kape, pero wala akong pera.

    Using 'datapwat' to buy coffee sounds unnaturally archaic, like using 'thou' or 'henceforth' in a coffee shop. Use 'pero' for daily life.

  • Confusing 'datapwat' (but) with 'bagaman' (although).

    Datapwat mainit ang panahon, naglaro pa rin sila.
    Bagaman mainit ang panahon, naglaro pa rin sila.

    'Datapwat' is a coordinating conjunction (but), while 'bagaman' is a subordinating conjunction (although). You cannot start a concessive clause with 'datapwat' in this specific way.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

datapwatLevel 6But / Nevertheless

Learn This First

Datapwat is a highly formal, literary, and somewhat archaic conjunction meaning 'but' or 'nevertheless'. To use it correctly, a learner should already be comfortable with common contrastive markers like 'pero' and 'ngunit', and understand that 'datapwat' is reserved for formal writing or oratorical speech.

Words in This Pattern

datapwat