But
/bʌt/noun
A conjunction used to introduce a contrast or exception.
Did you know?In Old English, 'but' was used in legal contexts, hinting at its deep roots in conflict and resolution, almost like a spell that alters the course of conversation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*būtan
“Without, outside of, or beyond.”
Old English
OE
butan
“Except, unless, or without.”
Middle English
ME
but
“A term for contrast or exception.”
Modern English
English
but
“A conjunction signaling opposition or exception.”