but
/bʊt/
however
📚 Meanings
- 1.
Used to connect two contrasting or opposite ideas, showing that the second statement differs from the first.
- 1.
Used to mean 'only' or 'merely', often in expressions of no other choice.
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💬 Examples
I want to go, but I can't.
I want to go, but I can't.
This is a good book, but it's a little long.
This is a good book, but it's a little long.
We tried our best, but we didn't win the game.
...
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Hear "but" in real YouTube clips
Loop only the sentence that contains this word — a fast way to absorb native rhythm and intonation.
“But I bet you what.”
Underdressed for a job interview | The Pursuit of Happyness | CLIPOpen full shadowing →“But you wouldn't be now.”
The Odyssey Cast Play Would You Rather (Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Matt Damon & Anne Hathaway)Open full shadowing →“Sorry, but what's curious?”
'The wand chooses the wizard, Mr Potter' | Full Scene | Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s StoneOpen full shadowing →
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but - translations in 8 languages
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Frequently asked about but
How do you pronounce but?
but is pronounced [/bʊt/]. You can hear a native pronunciation on Smoveth.
What does but mean?
but means "however". See the meanings and examples higher up on the page for the full picture.
How difficult is but?
but is a Elementary-level word.
Can you give an example sentence with but?
Example: "I want to go, but I can't." — used to mean "however".
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