English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word but in English

What does but mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

but

US /bʌt/
UK /bʌt/
"but" picture

Conjunction

1.

used to introduce a contrasting statement or clause

Example:
•
He is small, but strong.
•
I wanted to go, but I was too tired.
Synonym:
however nevertheless yet still though
2.

used to indicate the impossibility of anything other than what is being stated

Example:
•
There's nothing but trouble with that car.
•
She does nothing but complain.
Synonym:
except apart from other than save bar

Preposition

except; apart from

Example:
•
Everyone but John was there.
•
I had no choice but to agree.
Synonym:
except excluding barring save apart from

Adverb

only; no more than

Example:
•
He's but a child.
•
I can but try.
Synonym:
only merely just simply

Noun

a condition or limitation

Example:
•
There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.
•
He accepted the offer without any buts.
Synonym:
objection reservation qualification stipulation condition
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