but / bət/ • conj. 1. used to introduce something contrasting with what has already been mentioned: ∎  nevertheless; however: he stumbled but didn't fall. ∎  on the contrary; in contrast: I am clean but you are dirty.2. used to indicate the impossibility of anything other than what is being stated: one cannot but sympathize there was nothing they could do but swallow their pride.3. used to introduce a response expressing a feeling such as surprise or anger: but that's an incredible saving!| but why?4. used after an expression of apology for what one is about to say: I'm sorry, but I can't pay you.5. archaic without its being the case that: it never rains but it pours.• prep. except; apart from; other than: I trusted no one but him. ∎  used with repetition of certain words to give emphasis: nobody, but nobody, was going to stop her.• adv. no more than; only: he is but a shadow of his former self.• n. an argument against something; an objection: no buts—just get out of here.PHRASES: but for except for: I walked along Broadway, deserted but for the occasional cab. ∎  if it were not for: the game could be over but for you.but then on the other hand; that being so: it's a very hard exam, but then they all are.

but †adv. outside; prep. †outside; except; unless. if.. not OE.; adversative conj. XIII. OE. b(e)ūtan = OS. b(i)ūtan, OHG. biūzan; WGmc. comp. of *be, *bi BY and *ūtana from without (see OUT).