but that

phrase

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

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

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Cite this Entry

“But that.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/but%20that. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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