I dislike "but", and I'll tell you why.

The term|word "but" in the English language is strange; sometimes it is a modifier, other times it is only a conjunction [like a word semi-colon]. I suspect that "but" creates a lot of confusion and frequently muddles or side-tracks conversation. We need less "but". I'm taking a late new-years resolution to find other ways of more accurately expressing "but"-ness.

For example what does this statement mean from this article: """The state owns the rails between ..., but private companies such as Great Lakes Central Railroad...". ???

The text: "between ..., which is operated by private..." would have been clearer. This "but" feels like there is a problem implied [which is?]. In actuality the mentioned private company [GLC] has been a vocal supporter of inter-city transit; no conflict exists. So in this statement "but" is merely an awkward conjunction.

I am sure we have all experienced someone responding to something we've said with "Yes, but..." which is invariably a round-about way of saying "No." For years I have been using my own term yesbutism to refer to that disingenuous little bit of grammar.

I encourage everyone to reconsider the use of "but".

And I expect some "Yes, but..." defenses of "but" down in the comments! :)