but

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العربية الفصحى
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/bʌt/; weak /bət/
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Introduces a contrast or exception; in formal use it can mean only, and as a noun it can name an objection.
Practice using but in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The shop opens every day but Sunday.
  • He is but one voice among many.
  • It was but a dream.
  • No buts—please start now.
  • I am tired, but I can help.

Similar words

reservation
apart from
yet
except
merely
however
objection
only

Meanings

Contrasting idea

conjunction
contrast
neutral
Connects statements or words when the second differs from or limits the first.

Examples

  • I am tired, but I can help.
  • The bag is small but strong.
  • She called, but nobody answered.
  • He likes tea but not coffee.
  • It was cold, but we went outside.

Similar words

however
yet

Except for

preposition
exceptions
neutral
Means except, especially after words such as all, everyone, or nothing.

Examples

  • Everyone but Leo came.
  • I ate all but one apple.
  • There was nothing but water.
  • No one but you knows.
  • The shop opens every day but Sunday.

Similar words

except
apart from

Only or merely

adverb
limitation
formal
In rather formal or literary use, means no more than.

Examples

  • She is but a child.
  • It was but a dream.
  • We had but an hour left.
  • He is but one voice among many.
  • That was but the beginning.

Similar words

only
merely

Objection

noun
objections
informal
A reason for not agreeing, often used in the plural in commands such as “no buts.”

Examples

  • No buts—please start now.
  • I do not want to hear any buts.
  • She had one but about the plan.
  • His answer came with several buts.
  • There can be no buts about safety.

Similar words

objection
reservation

Etymology

From Old English butan, “outside, except, unless,” formed from elements meaning “by” and “out.”

FAQ

What does but usually do?

It connects contrasting ideas.

Can but mean except?

Yes, as in “everyone but Leo.”

What does “but a child” mean?

Only a child; this use is formal.

What are “no buts”?

No objections or excuses.

How is but different from and?

And simply joins ideas; but signals a contrast or limit.

Comments & contributions

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