but

but · conjunction

imported

Definitions

conjunction

  1. 1.

    Used to introduce something contrasting with what has been said.

  2. 2.

    Except; apart from.

  3. 3.

    Only; merely.

  4. 4.

    Used to indicate the impossibility of anything other than what is stated.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    but for — except for; if it were not for
  • •
    all but — almost; nearly
  • •
    anything but — not at all
  • •
    no buts about it — no objections allowed
  • •
    but then — on the other hand
  • •
    last but not least — important despite being mentioned last

Related words

Antonyms: and
See also: although, except, however, yet
Synonyms: although, except, however, nevertheless, yet

Etymology

From Old English "butan" meaning without, outside, except, from "be-" (by) + "utan" (outside).