0 used to introduce an added statement, usually something that is different from what you have said before:
She's very hard-working but not very imaginative.
I'm sorry, but I think you're wrong when you say she did it deliberately.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like handwritten letters.
I can understand his unhappiness. But to attempt suicide!
"She said she's leaving." "But why?"
You can invite Keith to the party, but please don't ask that friend of his.
We must not complain about the problem, but (= instead we must) help to put it right.
She's not a painter but a writer (= she is a writer, not a painter).
UK He said he hadn't been there, but then (= it is not surprising that) he would say that.
UK I think it's true, but then (= it should be understood that), I'm no expert.
1 except:
2 used to give force to a statement:
Everyone, but everyone, will be there.
3 only; just:
4 used to emphasize that something will happen even if the person you are talking to does not want it to:
5 used to express a difference or to introduce an added statement:
6 except:
He looked disappointed at their decision, but didn't argue.
Everyone in the office complains that he smells awful, but nobody dares mention it to him.
I haven't got any grapefruit juice, but I've got some orange juice. Will that do?