but that

phrase

: that
—used after a negative
there is no doubt but that it must be done

Examples of but that in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Once again, injuries have taken a toll on the offensive line, but that’s far from the only problem. — Andy Scholes, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026 Most people use a driver’s license, but that isn’t the only option. — Eva Flowe october 15, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026 The Houthis control between a quarter and a third of Yemen, but that portion is home to around three-quarters of the population. — Harriet Marsden, TheWeek, 15 Oct. 2026 There are many different types of life deserving of our respect, but that doesn’t mean a very simple life-form on Mars should unduly eliminate any possible benefit humans could gain by going there. — Lee Billings, Scientific American, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for but that

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of but that was before the 12th century

Rhymes for but that

See All Rhymes for but that

Browse Nearby Words

buttgenbachite
but that
butthead
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“But that.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/but%20that. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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