but

/bʌt/

conjunction★Beginner

formalinformal

Used to introduce a phrase or clause that contrasts with what has already been mentioned.

I wanted to go, but it was raining.

She is smart but sometimes forgetful.

💡

Often used to express contrast or exception.

formalinformal

Used to mean 'except' or 'except for' when referring to people or things.

Everyone but John attended the meeting.

I have nothing but time to spare.

💡

In this sense, it can be replaced with 'except' or 'except for' in some contexts.

but forIf it were not forbut thenHowever, at that time

but then againphrase

However, considering another perspective

Use 'but' to contrast ideas (e.g., 'I like tea but not coffee') or to mean 'except' (e.g., 'All but one').

In formal writing, avoid starting sentences with 'but'; use 'However' instead.

Old English 'butan' (outside, without), from Proto-Germanic 'būtan' (outside).

Avoid using 'but' at the beginning of a sentence in formal writing; use 'However' instead.

but

Contrast or exception

root

✎ Noted on May 2, 2026EN → EN