ṣùgbọ́n

Begin with two complete clauses and place ṣùgbọ́n before the second. Each clause can have its own subject, predicate, polarity and time frame. The connector does not take agreement endings.

The contrast may involve preferences, locations or an obstacle to a desired action. Negation is common but unnecessary: two positive claims can contrast different participants' locations or desires.

Unlike nominal àti coordination, this pattern connects propositions and signals why their difference matters. Repeated subjects keep the examples clear. A familiar context can allow omitted material, but learners should keep the subject explicit until the intended participant is clear. Explicit ‘although’ and ‘even so’ constructions require separate treatment.

• Mo fẹ́ lọ, ṣùgbọ́n n kò ní owó. — I want to go, but I have no money. The second clause gives an obstacle.
• Bísí wà ní Èkó, ṣùgbọ́n Tósìn wà ní Ìbàdàn. — Bísí is in Lagos, but Tósìn is in Ibadan. Both clauses are positive.
• Mo fẹ́ ẹja, ṣùgbọ́n Bísí fẹ́ ẹran. — I want fish, but Bísí wants meat. The desires contrast.
• Wọ́n ti ra ata, ṣùgbọ́n wọ́n kò tíì ra ẹja. — They have bought peppers, but they have not yet bought fish. Completion contrasts with a situation not yet reached.