but

conjunction
UK: /bʌt/
US: /bʌt/

  1. Used to introduce an idea that contrasts with a previous statement.

    1. I like tea, but I don't like coffee. [ ] [ ]
    2. She wanted to go to the party, but she was too tired after work to do so. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to introduce something that adds to or changes what you have just said.

    1. He is kind, but sometimes he's stubborn. [ ] [ ]
    2. The film was long, but gripping from beginning until its very end. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

though except nevertheless still apart from although save yet however notwithstanding
but adverb

  1. Used to indicate the only thing that prevents something from happening or being completely true.

    1. It was but a scratch. [ ] [ ]
    2. He is but a shadow of his former self after the accident. [ ] [ ]
but preposition

  1. Except; apart from; other than.

    1. Everyone but him agreed. [ ] [ ]
    2. I have nothing but respect for her dedication and hard work ethic. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "but" in English means: Used to introduce an idea that contrasts with a previous statement., Used to introduce something that adds to or changes what you have just said..

The phonetic transcription of "but" is /bʌt/ in British English and /bʌt/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "but": though, except, nevertheless, still, apart from, although, save, yet, however, notwithstanding.

Example usage of "but": "I like tea, but I don't like coffee.". More examples on the page.