What does "but" mean?

1. (contrast) used to introduce a statement that is different from what you just said. 2. (except) used to mean 'except' or 'apart from'. 3. (only) used to mean 'only' or 'just'. 4. (though) used at the end of a sentence to mean 'however'. 5. (an objection) a reason for not doing something or a doubt.

How do you use "but"?

In certain dialects, particularly in Scotland and Northern England, 'but' is placed at the end of a clause for emphasis or contrast.

but

conj. · prep. · adv. · n.

US //ˈbət// UK //bˈʌt// but

1 contrast (conj.)
A1 Beginner

used to introduce a statement that is different from what you just said.

used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or contradicts the preceding statement.

Example

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

Example

The initial results of the study were promising, but the research team cautioned that further peer-reviewed trials were necessary before drawing conclusions.
2 except (prep.)
B1 Intermediate

used to mean 'except' or 'apart from'.

used to indicate an exception to a preceding general statement, often following negative or universal quantifiers like 'no one' or 'everyone'.

Example

Everyone in the office attended the meeting but the manager.

Example

The committee found no alternative but to postpone the project until the necessary funding could be secured through private investment.
- including

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3 only (adv.)
C1 Advanced Literary

used to mean 'only' or 'just'.

used as a restrictive adverb meaning 'merely' or 'no more than'.

Example

He is but a child and does not understand the rules yet.

Example

The grand cathedral, once a symbol of imperial power, was now but a crumbling ruin reclaimed by the surrounding forest.
4 though (adv.)
C1 Advanced British English Dialect

used at the end of a sentence to mean 'however'.

used as a sentence-final conjunctive adverb to indicate a contrast with a previous statement.

Example

It was a very expensive car, but.

Example

The weather was miserable for the entire trip; we had a great time, but.

Usage

In certain dialects, particularly in Scotland and Northern England, 'but' is placed at the end of a clause for emphasis or contrast.
- though
- however
5 an objection (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

a reason for not doing something or a doubt.

an objection, caveat, or condition, typically used in the plural phrase 'no ifs, ands, or buts'.

Example

I want you to finish your homework now—no buts.

Example

The contract was signed without any 'buts' from the legal department, much to the relief of the negotiating team.