15 Other Ways to Say “But” (With Examples)

The word “but” is one of the most commonly used conjunctions in the English language. While it’s effective in connecting contrasting ideas, overusing it can make your speech or writing seem repetitive or simplistic. Exploring other ways to say “but” allows you to convey contrast with more nuance, sophistication, or emphasis as needed.

In this post, we’ll delve into 15 alternatives to “but,” complete with explanations and examples to help you enhance your daily conversations and writing. Whether it’s the formal “However” or the conversational “Even so,” these expressions provide versatile and effective ways to communicate your thoughts with clarity and style.

What to Say Instead of “But”

Here are 15 ways to say “But”:

1. However
2. Nevertheless
3. Nonetheless
4. Yet
5. Still
6. Though
7. Although
8. Even so
9. Despite that
10. On the other hand
11. In contrast
12. Then again
13. Be that as it may
14. Notwithstanding
15. Regardless

1. However

“However” is a formal and versatile conjunction used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously. It adds a level of sophistication to your speech or writing and is commonly used in academic or professional contexts.

Its use often indicates a shift in thought or a qualification of a previous statement. “However” can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, offering flexibility in how you structure your ideas.

Usage Examples:

• “The project is progressing well. However, we need to be mindful of the upcoming deadline.”
• “She studied hard for the exam; however, she didn’t achieve the score she wanted.”
• “However you look at it, the situation remains challenging.”

2. Nevertheless

“Nevertheless” is a formal conjunction used to introduce a contrasting statement that somewhat diminishes the importance of the previous one. It conveys that despite what has just been said, the following information remains true.

This word adds emphasis to the contrast and is suitable for both spoken and written communication, especially in formal contexts.

Usage Examples:

• “The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, we decided to go hiking.”
• “He had little experience. Nevertheless, he tackled the task with confidence.”
• “She knew the risks; nevertheless, she proceeded with the experiment.”

3. Nonetheless

“Nonetheless” functions similarly to “nevertheless,” introducing a statement that contrasts with the previous one. It emphasizes that the second statement remains true despite the first.

This term is often used in formal writing and speeches to highlight a concession or acknowledge a point before presenting a counterargument.

Usage Examples:

• “The team faced many obstacles. Nonetheless, they achieved their goals.”
• “It’s a complicated issue. Nonetheless, we must find a solution.”
• “He wasn’t feeling well. Nonetheless, he attended the meeting.”

4. Yet

“Yet” is a concise conjunction that introduces a contrasting idea or unexpected outcome. It’s commonly used in both formal and informal contexts and can add dramatic effect due to its brevity.

“Yet” often implies that something happens despite the preceding statement, highlighting a contradiction or surprising twist.

Usage Examples:

• “She has everything she could want, yet she feels unhappy.”
• “The evidence is compelling, yet the jury remains unconvinced.”
• “He studied all night, yet he overslept and missed the exam.”

5. Still

“Still” is used to introduce a contrasting idea, emphasizing that the second statement remains true despite the first. It’s suitable for both casual and formal communication and can add a reflective or contemplative tone.

“Still” often conveys a sense of persistence or continuity in the face of opposition or contradiction.

Usage Examples:

• “I know it’s risky; still, I want to try.”
• “They warned us about the traffic. Still, we left late.”
• “It’s expensive; still, it’s worth every penny.”

6. Though

“Though” is a conjunction that introduces a contrast or exception to the previous statement. It can be used interchangeably with “although” and is common in everyday language.

“Though” can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, providing flexibility in how you present contrasting ideas.

Usage Examples:

• “Though it was raining, we went for a walk.”
• “I like the job, though the commute is long.”
• “She’s quite strict, though she cares deeply about her students.”

7. Although

“Although” is a formal conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a contrast with the main clause. It functions similarly to “though” but is often preferred in formal writing.

“Although” sets up an expectation that is then contrasted, highlighting the complexity of a situation.

Usage Examples:

• “Although he was tired, he continued working late into the night.”
• “We enjoyed our vacation, although the weather wasn’t ideal.”
• “Although the plan seems sound, we should consider potential risks.”

8. Even so

“Even so” is a phrase used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has just been said, emphasizing that the second point remains valid despite the first.

It’s suitable for both spoken and written communication and adds a conversational tone to your contrast.

Usage Examples:

• “The odds were against us. Even so, we refused to give up.”
• “She apologized for the mistake. Even so, the damage was done.”
• “Prices have increased. Even so, consumers continue to buy.”

9. Despite that

“Despite that” is a phrase used to introduce a contrasting statement that remains true in spite of the previous information. It emphasizes the resilience or persistence of the second point.

This expression is effective in both formal and informal contexts and adds clarity to your contrast.

Usage Examples:

• “He lacks experience. Despite that, he performed exceptionally well.”
• “The proposal has flaws. Despite that, it’s worth considering.”
• “She was warned of the dangers. Despite that, she proceeded.”

10. On the other hand

“On the other hand” is a phrase used to present an alternative perspective or contrasting point. It suggests weighing options or considering different sides of an issue.

This expression is common in discussions, debates, and analyses, adding depth to your argumentation.

Usage Examples:

• “The apartment is spacious. On the other hand, it’s quite expensive.”
• “He could accept the offer. On the other hand, he might wait for a better opportunity.”
• “Online classes are convenient. On the other hand, they lack face-to-face interaction.”

11. In contrast

“In contrast” is a formal phrase used to highlight a significant difference between two ideas or situations. It emphasizes the distinction and is commonly used in academic or analytical writing.

This expression helps draw attention to opposing characteristics, enhancing the clarity of your comparison.

Usage Examples:

• “The north of the country is mountainous. In contrast, the south is flat and arid.”
• “Sales increased this quarter. In contrast, profits declined.”
• “She is outgoing and sociable. In contrast, her brother is quiet and reserved.”

12. Then again

“Then again” is an informal phrase used to introduce a contrasting point or a reconsideration of what has just been said. It often conveys a sense of doubt or second thought.

This expression adds a conversational tone and can make your speech or writing feel more relatable.

Usage Examples:

• “I might go out tonight. Then again, I have a lot of work to do.”
• “He seems unfriendly. Then again, he might just be shy.”
• “It could be a coincidence. Then again, maybe it’s intentional.”

13. Be that as it may

“Be that as it may” is a formal phrase used to acknowledge a point before introducing a contrasting statement. It signals that despite the validity of the previous point, the following information holds.

This expression adds a touch of formality and is often used in discussions or debates to concede a point without agreeing entirely.

Usage Examples:

• “Your proposal has merits. Be that as it may, we cannot implement it at this time.”
• “He claims to be innocent. Be that as it may, the evidence is compelling.”
• “The project is ambitious. Be that as it may, we need to consider the budget constraints.”

14. Notwithstanding

“Notwithstanding” is a formal term used to indicate that something occurs despite the presence of a particular factor. It can function as a preposition, adverb, or conjunction.

This word adds a level of sophistication to your writing and is often found in legal or academic texts.

Usage Examples:

• “Notwithstanding the challenges, the team completed the project on time.”
• “She accepted the job offer, notwithstanding the lower salary.”
• “Notwithstanding his injury, he played exceptionally well.”

15. Regardless

“Regardless” is used to indicate that something happens or is true even in spite of existing circumstances or conditions. It conveys determination or the irrelevance of certain factors.

This term is suitable for both formal and informal contexts and emphasizes the steadfastness of the following statement.

Usage Examples:

• “We will proceed with the plan, regardless of the obstacles.”
• “She remains optimistic, regardless of the difficulties she faces.”
• “They continued their journey regardless of the weather warnings.

Conclusion

Diversifying your vocabulary with other ways to say “but” not only enriches your language but also sharpens your ability to express contrasting thoughts. By embracing these alternatives, you communicate more effectively and keep your audience interested. Avoiding repetition and choosing the right words can make your speech and writing more engaging. Trust Other Ways To Say to help you convey your ideas with clarity and flair.

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