but
Signals a reversal
Busy as a bee, this word can act as a noun, a preposition, an adverb, and even a pronoun, but its main job is as a conjunction.
But introduces a clause that contrasts with what came before it.
The distinction can be weak or can amount to an exception or concession.
As a preposition but expresses contrast in a single noun phrase rather than a clause: There’s no one home but me.
As an adverb, but often means only or merely: These obstacles are but trifles in the overall plan.
With the exclusion of
aside from · other than · excluding · apart from · barring · short of · with the exception of · mere
Introduces a contrasting point
- neverthelessDespite what preceded
- nonethelessDespite what preceded
- yetStill, or eventually
- stillUnmoving, or continuing
though · although · even so · notwithstanding · albeit · regardless · on the other hand · all the same
Delay until later
- hold onWait or maintain grip
- hang onWait or persist
- actuallyIn truth, not supposedly
- wellDug water source
excuse me · pardon · I object · not so fast · one moment · if I may · with respect · on second thought
Completely, without exception
- certainlyWithout any doubt
- definitelyWith complete certainty
- surelyWith complete confidence
- totallyTo the full extent
completely · utterly · positively · undoubtedly · without doubt · no question · must · inevitably
except
With the exclusion of
besides · aside from · other than · excluding · apart from · barring · short of · with the exception of · mere · just
however
Introduces a contrasting point
- neverthelessDespite what preceded
- nonethelessDespite what preceded
- yetStill, or eventually
still · though · although · even so · notwithstanding · albeit · regardless · on the other hand · all the same · be that as it may
wait
Delay until later
well · excuse me · pardon · I object · not so fast · one moment · if I may · with respect · on second thought · counter
absolutely
Completely, without exception
- certainlyWithout any doubt
- definitelyWith complete certainty
- surelyWith complete confidence
totally · completely · utterly · positively · undoubtedly · without doubt · no question · must · inevitably
- peanut butterPaste from ground gourds
- belly buttonCord attachment remnant
- bread and butterPrimary source of income
- nothing butExclusively one thing
- butter knifeBlunt spreading utensil
- big red buttonConspicuous emergency activator
butt, button, butter, buttons, buttery, buttress, buttoned, buttered, buts