but

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "but" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a contrast or exception to what has already been said or to express an opposition. For example: "I was excited to go on holiday, but my passport had expired and I couldn't go."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But perhaps not.

The New York Times

But for how much longer?

The New York Times - Arts

But problems remain.

The New York Times

But what are they?

The New York Times

But many do.

The New York Times

But look again.

The New York Times

But not yet.

The New York Times

But it was not to be.

The New York Times

But we're not.

The New York Times

"But time is running out".

The New York Times

But is this right?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but" to create a clear contrast between two ideas, ensuring the relationship between the clauses is easily understood by the reader.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "but". While grammatically correct, it can make your writing sound choppy. Vary your sentence structure by using alternatives like "however", "although", or restructuring the sentence to avoid the conjunction altogether.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "but" is as a coordinating conjunction. It connects words, phrases, or clauses that contrast or present an exception to what has been previously stated. As Ludwig AI states, it introduces a contrast or exception.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but" is a coordinating conjunction used to introduce contrast, qualification, or exception. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. While versatile, it appears most frequently in News & Media. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "however", "yet", or "although". By understanding its function and context, you can use "but" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however

Indicates a contrast or qualification, similar to "but", but often used to introduce a more significant contrast.

yet

Implies a contrast or something unexpected despite what was previously stated, similar to "but".

although

Introduces a subordinate clause that contrasts with the main clause, similar to "but" in conveying a contrast.

though

Similar to "although", introducing a contrast or concession.

nevertheless

Indicates a contrast despite what has just been said; more formal than "but".

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless", suggesting a contrast or concession.

even so

Indicates that something is true despite what has been mentioned.

still

Highlights a contrast or something that remains true despite other factors.

on the other hand

Introduces a contrasting point or perspective.

in spite of

Introduces a contrasting element, often followed by a noun or gerund.

FAQs

How can I use "but" in a sentence?

"But" is used to introduce a contrast or exception. For example, "I wanted to go to the park, "but" it started raining".

What are some alternatives to using "but"?

You can use alternatives like "however", "yet", or "although" to introduce a contrast or qualification.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "but"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but", especially for emphasis or to create a smooth transition between contrasting ideas. However, overuse can make your writing sound informal.

What's the difference between "but" and "and"?

"But" introduces a contrast or exception, while "and" connects similar or related ideas. For example, "She likes cats, "and" she likes dogs" connects similar ideas, while "She likes cats, "but" she dislikes birds" introduces a contrast.