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.

“The court has granted Wander Franco a judicial pardon due to the particular circumstances that made him a material victim, but not a legal one.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

While “assimilation” and “integration” arguments present themselves as a neutral, civic concern about internal cohesion, they’re anything but.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

Villa might still have won at Etihad Stadium and thus Arsenal clinched the title, but the game would have taken on different significance.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

Fu lived in American communities but sought to use mind control and esoteric sciences to bring down the Western empire.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

I landed in New York with nothing but the robes on my back and my ancient Staff of Dragonfire, which does not work in this mundane realm.

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

but

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words