We’ve all been there. We’ve all used it before. That means that in some time in our lives we have all been hypocrites. That is because we’ve all used our “Buts” before. The funny thing about “But” is that sometimes it is such a contradiction. While we can use our “Buts” to denote that we are unsure of something, usually when people say “But…” it’s because they mean the opposite of what they are telling you they mean. Here are a few examples:
“I like you but…”
This usually means that the person really does not like you but does not want to hurt your feelings.
“They cool but”
This one is two fold: a). There are more bad qualities about “them” than there are good, and b). I don’t want to talk about your friend in front of your face.
“I don’t mean to offend you, but…”
Here, this but means that I’m warning you that what I am about to say will in fact offend you.
“That’s a great idea but”
This means that chances are your idea sucked and the person doesn’t know how to tell you.
“I know but”
Means the person doesn’t really know what they’re talking about.
“I was going to tell you, but..”
This means the person wasn’t going to tell you, but now that he or she has been caught they have to think of a lie real quick.
“I don’t mind watching your kids, but”
Your children are little devils who don’t listen and no one feels like being bothered.
The PBS Blog 