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Definitions

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.

In a statement, Amazon said that it has taken up the matter of what to do with “The Apprentice” but that the discussion has remained very much in its early stages.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

He doesn’t condemn the pursuit outright, but you can feel him biting his tongue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Palantir Technologies may have made a name for itself as a government contractor, but there’s still room for it to grow its presence in that sector, according to a newly bullish analyst.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

The possessions in question, such as a spice collection and a leg-shaped lamp, may have seemed trivial, but the topic was extremely sensitive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

You reach the would-be mirage, but there’s not even a puddle.

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