Showing Results for "but"

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 had thought about “hiring a car” but decided against it, and “I’m pretty glad I did. ... I’m really using public transport, which has been fine.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2026

I was skeptical that the world needed a fifth installment of the Toy Story franchise, but then I read Dana Stevens’ write-up of a film that “wrestles with an existential threat to the franchise—and triumphs.”

From Slate • Jun. 17, 2026

If, for example, there was a threat to the southern islands that Japan controls but Beijing also claims, Ogi believes the current constitution is sufficient.

From BBC • Jun. 17, 2026

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he expected the accord with Iran ending the Middle East war to be signed "shortly" but cast uncertainty over the exact date.

From Barron's • Jun. 17, 2026

Someone unloaded the passengers’ luggage on the dock, but most of it has been stolen.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly

but

Usage

Example Sentences

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