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but

[buht, buht] / bʌt, bət /
CONJUNCTION
indicating contrast
Synonyms
WEAK
although however nevertheless on the other hand still though yet
CONJUNCTION
indicating an exception
Synonyms
WEAK
aside from barring disregarding except not including omitting passing over without
PREPOSITION
indicating contrast
Synonyms
WEAK
although however nevertheless on the other hand still though
PREPOSITION
indicating an exception
Synonyms
WEAK
aside from barring disregarding except not including omitting passing over without

Usage

What are other ways to say but? The conjunction but marks an opposition or contrast, though in a casual way: We are going, but we shall return. However indicates a less marked opposition, but displays a second consideration to be compared with the first: We are going; however (“notice this also”), we shall return. Nevertheless implies a concession, something which should not be forgotten in making a summing up: We are going; nevertheless (“do not forget that”), we shall return. Still implies that in spite of a preceding concession, something must be considered as possible or even inevitable: We have to go on foot; still (“it is probable and possible that”), we'll get there. Yet implies that in spite of a preceding concession, there is still a chance for a different outcome: We are going; yet (“in spite of all, some day”), we shall return.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He preferred not to disclose whether Cargill lost money in Venezuela but it would be difficult to see how they avoided it.

From MarketWatch

The studio was small, but Buffett’s laid-back vibe set the tone; the first thing he’d do when he walked in was kick off his shoes, Jamison said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Over time, these restrictions could hurt Japanese manufacturers, which play a major role in the world’s electronics and semiconductor supply chains but are highly reliant on Chinese rare earths.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Many have said they’d like to learn, but once they try it and realize how much time, patience and practice it requires ... they just can’t keep it up.”

From Los Angeles Times

Lately his focus has been on Venezuela and South America, but North America is also in his sights.

From Los Angeles Times

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.