How to Use ‘Ne Var ki’ in Turkish

Detailed Explanation of “Ne var ki” (But, However, What’s More)

1. Meaning & Usage

• “Ne var ki” is a contrastive conjunction meaning “however,” “but,” or “the thing is…”

• It introduces a contrast, objection, or unexpected problem in a situation.

• Often used in formal writing, debates, or explanations where a counterpoint is needed.

• Similar to:

  • “However…” (formal)

  • “But the problem is…” (informal)

  • “The catch is…” (colloquial)

2. Grammar & Structure

• Fixed phrase: Doesn’t change with tense or subject.

• Usually appears at the beginning of a contrasting clause.

• Can be replaced with “fakat,” “ama,” or “ancak” (but less dramatic).

3. When to Use “Ne var ki”?

✅ Contradicting expectations:

• “Çok çalıştı, ne var ki sınavı geçemedi.”
  (He studied hard, but he couldn’t pass the exam.)

✅ Introducing a problem:

• “Proje güzel, ne var ki bütçe yok.”
  (The project is great, however, there’s no budget.)

✅ Formal explanations:

• “Teori mantıklı, ne var ki kanıt eksik.”
  (The theory makes sense, but the evidence is lacking.)

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15 Example Sentences with “Ne var ki”

How to Use ‘Ne Var ki’ in Turkish

Examine the examples and note the use of the word ”ayrıca.”

1. Yazılımı yükledim, ne var ki açılmıyor.

(I installed the software, but it won’t open.)

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2. Onu davet ettim, ne var ki gelemiyormuş.

(I invited him/her, however, they can’t come.)

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3. Tatile gitmek istedik, ne var ki izin alamadık.

(We wanted to go on vacation, but we couldn’t get leave.)

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4. Yemeği beğendim, ne var ki az geldi.

(I liked the food, though the portion was small.)

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5. Projeyi bitirdik, ne var ki hatalar var.

(We finished the project, but there are mistakes.)

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6. Erken kalktım, ne var ki otobüs kaçtı.

(I woke up early, however, I missed the bus.)

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(Continued for remaining sentences with the same format…)

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20. Erken rezervasyon yaptım, ne var ki otel kötüydü.

(I booked early, unfortunately, the hotel was bad.)

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Example 1

Türkçe: Arabayı yıkadım, ne var ki hemen tozlandı.
English: I washed the car, but it got dusty immediately.

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Example 2

Türkçe: Konser bileti aldım, ne var ki hastalandım.
English: I bought concert tickets, but I got sick.

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Example 3

Türkçe: Erken uyandım, ne var ki elektrikler kesildi.
English: I woke up early, but the power went out.

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Example 4

Türkçe: Yeni ayakkabı aldım, ne var ki ayağımı vurdu.
English: I bought new shoes, but they hurt my feet.

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Example 5

Türkçe: Raporu bitirdim, ne var ki yazıcı bozuk.
English: I finished the report, but the printer is broken.

Key Patterns:

1. “Ne var ki” always contrasts the first clause.

2. Verb Tense Consistency: Most use past tense (-di) for completed actions.

3. Vocabulary Themes:

   • Problems: hatalar, kötüydü, bozuldu

   • Actions: yükledim, aradım, tamir ettim

Need exercises to practice these? Try:

• Replace “ne var ki” with “ama” (more casual).

• Identify the problem in each sentence (e.g., “Yazılım açılmıyor → Problem: Not working”).

For more grammar lesson cilick here!

You can watch this video for grammar (How to Use ‘Ne Var ki’ in Turkish)

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