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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.

You can’t know everything that will happen, but thinking through as much as you can will forestall a lot of bad outcomes.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 22, 2026

Inference requires less raw computing power than GPUs typically provide but more memory.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

“Agility is great, but unless you have a plan, you’re still flailing around,” Birken said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 22, 2026

Switzerland watered down its proposed capital rules for UBS but will still require around $20 billion in additional capital.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

I rose, surprised at how dark the sky had become, but time passed differently here.

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