What does "but" in this context mean?

Question

English isn't my native language, and I want to know the equivalent word for the "but" in this context. Thanks in advance!

"He would sometimes see himself, but in overalls, weighted down by hopelessness."

Answer 1

This means "he would see himself "only" in overalls. the "but" clarifies how he would see himself. Therefore, he would not see himself at all, if he was in a blue suit.

"He would sometimes see himself in overalls, weighted down by hopelessness".

Answer 2

actually the word but here has no meaning without the previous sentence.. I am assuming that the sentence b4 would lead the reader to believe this man would not be in overalls etc.

you could try butt, but that would mean something a little different. I do not believe there is another single word alternative. A phrase perhaps like==== instead of in a suit wearing a smile he saw himself------

perhaps the word except would capture the entire thought as it does imply that there is differance from whatever was expected. But has this in it's usage---the idea of negating whatever went b4, sort of a contradiction---however without knowing the other sentence one has a hard time being accurate

Answer 3

It seems to be referring to a dream sequence, whereby the person would see himself in the dream, presumably appearing normal, except for the fact that he would be wearing overalls...

"Weighted down by hopelessness" seems to imply that in the dream, he would have some sort of menial job or profession where it was common to wear overalls, and this fact made him feel as if his life was hopeless.

Answer 4

I think you have the quote wrong.
"He would sometimes see himself, but overall he's weighed down by hopelessness."
This person is depressed and at times thinks clearly but most of the time he is in despair and thinks everything is terrible.

Answer 5

doesn't make sense at all. This sentence makes sense. Compare the 2 and you will see the meaning. "He would sometimes wear a red t-shirt, but with overalls, it just wouldn't look good."

Answer 6

Uh, kind of saying that he sees himself as lower working class, restrained by society.

Answer 7

means an exception

Answer 8

in this context it means on the contrary; yet:

For example: "My brother went, but I did not".

Answer 9

he wont ever think about wearing or seeing himself in overalls

Answer 10

But can mean many things: However, thus, yet, although, also...