but

/bʊt//bʌt/

noun

  1. 1

    An instance or example of using the word "but".

    “It has to be done – no ifs or buts.”
  2. 2

    The outer room of a small two-room cottage.

  3. 3

    A limit; a boundary.

  4. 4

    The end; especially the larger or thicker end, or the blunt, in distinction from the sharp, end; the butt.

verb

  1. 1

    Use the word "but".

    “But me no buts.”

adverb

  1. 1

    Merely, only, just.

    “Christmas comes but once a year.”
  2. 2

    Though, however.

    “I'll have to go home early but.”
  3. 3

    Used as an intensifier.

    “Nobody, but nobody, crosses me and gets away with it.”

preposition

  1. 1

    Apart from, except (for), excluding.

    “Everyone but Father left early.”
  2. 2

    (obsolete outside Scotland) Outside of.

conjunction

  1. 1

    On the contrary, rather (as a regular adversative conjunction, introducing a word or clause in contrast or contradiction with the preceding negative clause or sentence).

    “I am not rich but [I am] poor  not John but Peter went there.”
  2. 2

    However, although, nevertheless, on the other hand (introducing a clause contrary to prior belief or in contrast with the preceding clause or sentence).

    “She is very old but still attractive.”
  3. 3

    Except that (introducing a subordinate clause which qualifies a negative statement); also, with omission of the subject of the subordinate clause, acting as a negative relative, "except one that", "except such that".

    “I cannot but feel offended.”
  4. 4

    Without its also being the case that; unless that (introducing a necessary concomitant).

    “It never rains but it pours.”
  5. 5

    Except with; unless with; without.

  6. 6

    Only; solely; merely.

  7. 7

    Until.

  8. 8

    (following a negated expression of improbability) That.

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