This is the 14th most frequent Chinese word.
但
"But" or "however."
但 is used as a conjunction to show contrast between two clauses.
他聪明，但不努力。
He is smart but not hardworking.
但 serves as a conjunction introducing a contrasting situation or delay.
我喜欢但等一下再说。
I like it, but let's discuss it later.
但 highlights a limitation or uncertain factor following a prior statement.