لم يكن ... لكنه ...
Use this pattern to contrast two ideas in the past: first say that something was not true, then add the real situation with لكنّه. It is useful for showing surprise or a change in expectation. Example: "لم يكن سامر مريضًا، لكنه أراد التأكد من أن كل شيء جيد." The first part sets up the contrast, and the second part gives the real reason or result.
لم يكن سامر مريضًا، لكنه أراد التأكد من أن كل شيء جيد.
Samer was not sick, but he wanted to make sure everything was fine.
