а

а

The Russian word "а" means "and," "but," or "whereas," depending on the context.

This use of 'а' implies a contrast or an opposite outcome between the two clauses.

Я хотел пойти гулять, а пошёл на работу.

I wanted to go for a walk, but instead, I went to work.

Here, 'а' connects two clauses, highlighting a simultaneous or correlational relationship between them.

Я думал, а он уже знал ответ.

I was thinking, while he already knew the answer.

In this sentence, 'а' is used to indicate a comparison or distinction between what the two subjects are doing.

Петя играет на гитаре, а Лена на пианино.

Petya plays the guitar, whereas Lena plays the piano.