[BUT Synonyms] 25 Other Ways to Say But (Examples)

Have you ever wanted to make your writing or speaking sound more interesting instead of using the same word "but" all the time? In this article, we will explore 25 other words you can use instead of "but," such as "however," "yet," "nevertheless," and many more. Each synonym includes clear explanations and examples to help you use them correctly.

1. However

"However" is one of the most popular words used instead of "but." It is often used in formal writing or when you want to show contrast between two ideas. It adds a pause and makes your sentence sound thoughtful. You can use it at the beginning or middle of a sentence. Many writers and speakers use "however" to express an opposite idea smoothly. It fits well in essays, letters, and even business talks.

• I wanted to go out; however, it started raining.
• She studied hard; however, she didn't pass the exam.
• He likes dogs; however, his sister prefers cats.

2. Yet

"Yet" is a small and powerful word that works well instead of "but." It is used to show a surprising contrast between two ideas. You can use it when something unexpected happens or when two things don't seem to fit together. Many people use "yet" in daily speaking and writing because it sounds natural and short. It is perfect for showing that something is true even though something else might stop it.

• The task was hard, yet she completed it.
• He is young, yet very wise.
• It was raining, yet we went for a walk.

3. Nevertheless

"Nevertheless" sounds a bit formal, but it is a wonderful way to replace "but." You can use it to show a strong contrast or when something happens despite a problem. It is often used in essays, speeches, and professional writing. It makes your sentence sound polite and serious. It also helps show that you are continuing your point while acknowledging a challenge.

• The journey was long; nevertheless, we enjoyed it.
• She was tired; nevertheless, she finished her work.
• It was risky; nevertheless, he took the chance.

4. Though

"Though" is a friendly and soft word you can use instead of "but." It fits nicely in conversations and informal writing. You can place it at the beginning or end of a sentence. It shows a gentle contrast or a small difference. People use "though" when they want to sound relaxed but still show an opposite idea. It's very common in both speaking and writing.

• The movie was long; it was good, though.
• I liked the gift, though it was expensive.
• It's cold outside, though sunny.

5. Although

"Although" works well to introduce a contrast or unexpected fact. It is similar to "though" but sounds slightly more formal. You can use it at the start or middle of a sentence. It helps connect two ideas in a soft and polite way. Students, professionals, and writers often use it when they want to make their writing flow better while showing contrast.

• Although it was raining, we went hiking.
• She passed the test, although she didn't study much.
• Although he is busy, he always finds time for friends.

6. Even though

"Even though" is a stronger version of "although." It is used when something happens despite a big problem or challenge. It shows strong contrast or surprise. Many speakers use "even though" to make a point sound emotional or powerful. It helps express determination, strength, or unexpected actions. It fits very well in both stories and conversations.

• Even though it was cold, we went swimming.
• She smiled even though she was sad.
• He helped her even though they argued before.

7. Still

"Still" is a short and simple word used to show that something continues or happens despite another fact. You can use it instead of "but" when you want to express persistence or surprise. Many people use it in everyday talk and friendly writing. It makes your sentences sound calm and natural.

• It was late; still, they kept working.
• He failed once; still, he didn't give up.
• She was sick; still, she went to school.

8. On the other hand

"On the other hand" is a useful phrase for showing contrast between two sides or opinions. It is perfect for discussions, essays, and debates. You can use it when comparing two different ideas. It helps you sound thoughtful and balanced. People often use it after saying one point to introduce the opposite side.

• He likes city life; on the other hand, she enjoys the countryside.
• Working from home is flexible; on the other hand, it can be lonely.
• He is strict; on the other hand, he is fair.

9. Even so

"Even so" is a phrase that shows contrast or surprise. It means "despite that." You can use it instead of "but" when something happens unexpectedly after a negative fact. It makes writing sound smooth and confident. It's often used in both speaking and writing when you want to show something continues regardless of obstacles.

• It was raining; even so, they played outside.
• She was tired; even so, she finished the job.
• The shop was closed; even so, he waited.

10. Except

"Except" is another word you can use to show contrast or difference. It means "not including." You use it when you want to point out something different from the rest. It helps make your meaning clear and focused. It's often used by teachers, writers, and everyday speakers to make lists or comparisons.

• Everyone joined the trip except Tom.
• I liked all the songs except one.
• She eats everything except meat.

11. Whereas

"Whereas" is used to show contrast between two facts or situations. It is more common in writing than in speaking. You can use it in formal documents or essays to compare two opposite points. It helps make your sentence sound professional and organized. It's great for reports, academic writing, and careful explanations.

• She is quiet, whereas her brother is loud.
• I enjoy reading, whereas he prefers movies.
• Some people love winter, whereas others hate it.

12. Nonetheless

"Nonetheless" is another way to say "but" that sounds professional and strong. It means "in spite of that." It is perfect for showing that something is true even after a problem. Writers and speakers use it to sound confident and balanced. It fits well in essays, talks, and reports.

• It was a long day; nonetheless, we felt happy.
• She didn't rest; nonetheless, she succeeded.
• He was new; nonetheless, he did a great job.

13. Instead

"Instead" is used to show choice or replacement. It works well when you want to show an alternative or a different action. You can use it when one idea replaces another. It is easy to use and common in both talking and writing. It helps your sentence sound clear and decisive.

• We stayed home instead of going out.
• He took tea instead of coffee.
• She walked instead of taking the bus.

14. Otherwise

"Otherwise" is another useful word that can replace "but." It means "if not" or "in a different situation." You can use it to show what could happen if something changes. It's often used in instructions, advice, or logical explanations. It helps your sentence sound thoughtful and precise.

• Study hard; otherwise, you may fail.
• Hurry up; otherwise, we'll be late.
• Wear a coat; otherwise, you'll get cold.

15. While

"While" can be used to show contrast, just like "but." It means "although" in some cases. You can use it at the start or middle of a sentence. It's helpful when comparing two ideas or situations that are different. It's used both in formal and casual writing.

• While I like coffee, I prefer tea.
• She's friendly while her brother is shy.
• While it's expensive, it's worth buying.

16. In contrast

"In contrast" is a great phrase for comparing two different ideas. It is often used in essays, reports, and discussions. You can use it after talking about one thing to show the opposite. It helps your writing sound logical and clear. It's a favorite choice among students and writers.

• The north is cold; in contrast, the south is warm.
• She is tall; in contrast, her sister is short.
• His room is tidy; in contrast, mine is messy.

17. Conversely

"Conversely" is used to express the opposite of something. It's more common in formal writing or academic works. It helps make strong comparisons or opposite statements. It's perfect when you want to sound precise and logical. Many teachers, researchers, and writers use it for clear contrast.

• The rich get richer; conversely, the poor struggle.
• He likes quiet; conversely, she enjoys noise.
• Some rise early; conversely, others stay up late.

18. Still and all

"Still and all" is a less common but friendly way to show contrast. It means "nevertheless" or "even so." It's often used in casual speech. It gives your sentence a relaxed and conversational tone. It's good when you want to express understanding while still making your point.

• The weather was bad; still and all, we went.
• He was upset; still and all, he helped.
• It was hard; still and all, she smiled.

19. Though even

"Though even" adds a strong contrast to a statement. It's often used in storytelling or emotional writing. It shows that something happened despite a surprising condition. It gives your sentence a dramatic and deep feeling. Many writers use it for expressive storytelling.

• He won, though even his friends doubted him.
• She smiled, though even she was scared.
• He continued, though even it was hopeless.

20. Albeit

"Albeit" is a formal synonym for "but" or "although." It is used in professional or literary writing. It helps you express a small contrast or exception smoothly. It sounds refined and smart. People use it when they want their writing to sound elegant.

• It was a good plan, albeit risky.
• She was cheerful, albeit tired.
• The movie was fun, albeit too long.

21. That said

"That said" is a conversational phrase used to show contrast. It means "even though I said that." You can use it to introduce a different or opposing point. It helps you sound natural in conversation or informal writing. Many people use it to balance opinions.

• It's expensive. That said, it's worth every penny.
• The hotel is far. That said, it's very peaceful.
• He's strict. That said, he's fair.

22. Regardless

"Regardless" means "without being affected by something." You can use it instead of "but" to show determination or focus. It expresses that something happens even with obstacles. It's often used in motivational or strong statements. It helps inspire action and confidence.

• He continued regardless of the pain.
• She smiled regardless of the result.
• They finished regardless of the weather.

23. Be that as it may

"Be that as it may" is a polite and formal phrase used to show contrast. It means "even if what you said is true." It's often used in discussions or debates. It helps you sound respectful while sharing your own point. It's great for essays or thoughtful writing.

• He's young. Be that as it may, he's very smart.
• She failed once. Be that as it may, she's trying again.
• It's costly. Be that as it may, it's useful.

24. Even then

"Even then" means something happens despite time or condition. It's used when you want to show that something continues to be true. It helps create contrast while keeping your sentence soft. It's good for conversations or storytelling.

• He was warned; even then, he tried.
• She knew the risk; even then, she joined.
• It was late; even then, they waited.

25. Anyhow

"Anyhow" is a friendly and easy word to use instead of "but." It means "despite that" or "in any case." It's often used in conversations to move on or show contrast lightly. It helps make your sentences sound casual and natural.

• He was late; anyhow, he came.
• The plan failed; anyhow, we learned something.
• It rained; anyhow, we had fun.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways to replace "but" and make your sentences more interesting and smooth. Using these 25 synonyms helps you show contrast clearly and keep your writing fresh and engaging. Practice using them daily to improve how you express your thoughts and ideas.