but

strong /bʌt/ weak /bət/ conjunction

Definition

OPPOSITE INFORMATION › used to introduce something new that you say, especially something which is different or the opposite from what you have just said: I'd drive you there, but I haven't got my car. The tickets were expensive, but the kids really enjoyed it.

EXPLAINING WHY › used before you say why something did not happen or is not true: I was going to go to his party, but I was ill.

SHOWING SURPRISE › used to show that you are surprised about what someone has just said: 'Tim is leaving.' 'But why?'

CONNECTING PHRASES › used to connect 'excuse me' or 'I'm sorry' with what you say next: Excuse me, but would you mind shutting the door?

(Definition of but conjunction from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)