but
Translation
but, however, except
Examples
He is smart, but lazy.
He is smart, but lazy.
Everyone but John went to the party.
Everyone but John went to the party.
Grammar Patterns
((clause 1)), but ((clause 2)) to connect two contrasting ideas He is smart, but lazy.
((all/everyone/etc.)) but ((sb./sth.)) meaning 'except' Everyone but John went.
Similar Words
Synonyms: however, yet (conjunctions); except, besides (prepositions).
Etymology
From Old English 'butan', meaning 'outside, without, except'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a turning point in a sentence, signalling a contrast or exception.