Cool MateMeaning of But
used to introduce a word or phrase that contrasts with what was said before
In simple words: Used to show contrast or exception.
But in a sentence
- I wanted to go, but it started to rain.
- She is smart, but she is also very kind.
- I like apples but not bananas.
- He plays the guitar, but he is not in a band.
- I studied hard, but I still failed the test.
How to use But
'But' is used to connect two contrasting ideas. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written English but may sound abrupt in very formal writing.
Grammar pattern
standalone conjunction
Memory hint
Think of 'but' as a 'bump' that shows a turn in the conversation.
Related words
Collocations with But
- but I thought
- but what about
- but still
- but then
- but also
Synonyms for But
- however
- yet
- nevertheless
- on the other hand
- although
Common mistakes with But
- Confusing 'but' with 'and' when showing contrast.
- Starting a sentence with 'but' in very formal writing.
- Using a comma before 'but' when the clauses are very short.
But appears in
More words like But
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Frequently asked questions about But
What does But mean?
Used to show contrast or exception.
What is the definition of But?
used to introduce a word or phrase that contrasts with what was said before
How do you use But in a sentence?
I wanted to go, but it started to rain.
Can you give another example of But?
She is smart, but she is also very kind.
What are synonyms for But?
Common alternatives include however, yet, nevertheless, on the other hand, although.
What is the opposite of But?
Opposite meanings include and, or.
What words go with But?
It commonly pairs with but I thought, but what about, but still, but then, but also.
What are common mistakes when using But?
Confusing 'but' with 'and' when showing contrast. Starting a sentence with 'but' in very formal writing. Using a comma before 'but' when the clauses are very short.
How do you pronounce But?
US: /["/bət//bʌt/"]/, UK: /["/bət//bʌt/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use But?
'But' is used to connect two contrasting ideas. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written English but may sound abrupt in very formal writing.
What CEFR level is But?
"But" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.