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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.

The nature of the threat posed by sand pits was put aptly by golf writer Aleck Bauer in 1913: “Bunkers are not intended to be pleasure grounds but places of repentance.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Many immigrants want to return to their native countries, but often life gets in the way.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

As designers, we’ve paid abundant attention to user frustration over the years but have ignored the frustrations that come from a smooth and too-easy world.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Munster mounted periods of concerted pressure in the second half and Jack Crowley's two tries briefly threatened a comeback, but Exeter's famed defence held firm.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

You pull out your phone to call your sister, even if Cassie will be annoyed, but the screen doesn’t light up.

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

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.