1. "Mais" (most common): This is the most common translation for "but" and is used in most situations.
Example: "J'aime le chocolat, mais je n'aime pas le café." (I like chocolate, but I don't like coffee.)
2. "Cependant" (formal): This is a more formal way to say "but" and is often used in writing or speeches.
Example: "Le projet est ambitieux, cependant il est réalisable." (The project is ambitious, however it is achievable.)
3. "Néanmoins" (formal): This is similar to "cependant" in formality and meaning.
Example: "Il a travaillé dur, néanmoins il a échoué." (He worked hard, nevertheless he failed.)
4. "Toutefois" (formal): Another formal option, similar to "cependant" and "néanmoins."
Example: "Je suis d'accord avec vous, toutefois j'ai quelques reservations." (I agree with you, however I have some reservations.)
5. "Or" (less common): This is used when "but" introduces a contrasting element, similar to "yet" or "still" in English.
Example: "Il est riche, or il est malheureux." (He is rich, yet he is unhappy.)
The best way to choose the right translation for "but" in French depends on the formality of the situation and the specific nuance you want to convey.