What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
but
Example
I wanted to go to the party, but I had to study for my exam. [but: conjunction]
Example
She is smart, but she can be forgetful at times. [but: coordinating conjunction]
nevertheless
Example
The weather was bad, but we went to the beach nevertheless. [nevertheless: adverb]
Example
He failed the test, but he continued to study nevertheless. [nevertheless: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
But is more commonly used than nevertheless in everyday language. It is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. On the other hand, nevertheless is less frequently used and is more commonly found in formal writing or speech.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between but and nevertheless?
While but can be used in both formal and informal contexts, nevertheless is slightly more formal and is often used in more professional or academic settings.