Synonyms in Detail: but and still Usage & Differences

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 young, but she is very talented. [but: coordinating conjunction]

still

Example

He is still working on his project. [still: adverb]

Example

Despite the rain, they still went to the beach. [still: adverb]

Good things to know

Which word is more common?

But is more commonly used than still in everyday language. But is versatile and can be used in various contexts to express contrast or contradiction. On the other hand, still is less common and is typically used to indicate persistence or to emphasize a point.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between but and still?

While but is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, still is slightly more formal. However, both words can be used in a range of formality levels depending on the context.

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