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.

Impacciatore: The first time that I watched “The Office,” I thought, “This project is incredible, but the light is so horrible. I will look so ugly.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

“You feel this grit. You feel this rawness. The show is set in the ‘90s, but ... it could be today, tomorrow, yesterday.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

I still have these nails because I’m still shooting, but usually I don’t have long nails.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

“Hell’s Kitchen” closed on Broadway in February after 23 previews and 767 regular performances — but for Keys, in many ways, it’s just beginning.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

“Yeah, no problem. I just . . .” He almost looks like he’s missed me as much as I missed him, but I know better than to believe that.

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

but

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words