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 didn’t have the money to do stuff, but he made sure we did everything,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 9, 2026

Platner adamantly denied this latest allegation, but within hours of the interview's publication, his political support evaporated.

From BBC • Jul. 9, 2026

Kyiv has floated the idea previously but Moscow rejected it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 9, 2026

Scientists have long linked these odd behaviors to changes in water's microscopic structure as temperature and pressure vary, but they have lacked a consistent way to describe and compare those structural changes.

From Science Daily • Jul. 8, 2026

It will take careful planning, indeed, but the Japanese imperialists believe they must advance if they want to fulfill their vision.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly

but

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words