But
/bʌt/
conjunctionBeginnerVery CommonGeneral
Meanings
Questions
Definitions
2 meanings1
Indicates a contrast or exception to what has just been stated.
/bʌt/
conjunctionneutralBeginner
General
Expressing contrast or exception
It's raining, but I'll still go for a walk.
💡 Simply: Shows something different or opposite.
More Examples
2
She tried her best, but she failed.
How It's Used
General Conversation
"I wanted to go to the party, but I was too tired."
Writing
"The evidence was compelling, but the jury still had doubts."
2
Excluding; except.
/bʌt/
prepositionneutralBeginner
General
Except; excluding
All but one of the students passed the exam.
💡 Simply: Besides; other than.
More Examples
2
Nobody knows but you.
How It's Used
General Conversation
"Nobody but me saw it."
Tip:Think of it as leaving something out.
From Old English *butan, meaning "outside," "except." It evolved to indicate exception and contrast.
The word 'but' has maintained its core meaning of contrast and exception across centuries, showing remarkable consistency in its usage.
Memory tip
Think of it as a 'bump' in the road, a change of direction.
Practice
butt
Usage
85%Spoken
90%Written