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.

Oil major BP on Tuesday said it’s ousting the chair it appointed only last year, but keeping the chief executive he picked.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

Two decades of gloom all but wiped out the gauzy memories of the gutty mid-90s teams and the Nixon-era titles with Clyde, Pearl, DeBusschere and Willis Reed hobbling out from the tunnel.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

When asked about future “Hell’s Kitchen” projects — including a film adaptation — Keys laughed and said she “can’t talk too much,” but that the team is exploring various realms of possibility.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

These have no work requirement and the money can be accessed before age 59½, but they do not provide the same tax benefits.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

She checked her GPS, but it had gone completely squirrelly.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

but

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words