But / Though Expressing defeat or challenge

Brian worked in marketing for two years, but lost his job when his company down-sized its number of employees during the bad economic recession.  Brian wants to continue pursuing his career, yet he has several difficulties to face.

Implied Meanings

BUT – AN OBSTACLE	THOUGH – A CHALLENGE
After a statement of intent, but introduces a clause with a contrasting thought – often an obstacle or reason for setback or defeat. (But is a conjunction.)	After a statement of intent, though introduces a clause with an obstacle or difficulty in the way of success – something that often can be overcome. (Though is a conjunction.)
Brian is focused on the obstacles! Brian hopes to find a new job, but few employers are hiring. He stood in line to get into a job fair, but he found nothing in marketing. He also, wants to go to business school, but he has no savings to pay tuition or to support himself while studying.  He'd like to get some additional training; however, he's unsure where to get it.  Brian doesn't know where to get started. He's letting the obstacles overcome him and keep him from his goals. obstacle (n.) -- something that makes it difficult to achieve something	Brian is focused on his goals! Brian hopes to find a new job though few employers are hiring. He stood in line to get into a job fair though he found nothing in marketing. He also, wants to go to business school although he has no savings to pay tuition or to support himself while studying.  He'd like to get some additional training even though he's unsure where to get it.  Brian is prepared for the challenge. He is overcoming challenges in order to meet his goals.  challenge (n.) -- something that tests strength, skill, or ability, especially in a way that is interesting

But vs. Though

INTENT	CONJUNCTION	OBSTACLE	INTENT	CONJUNCTION	CHALLENGE
Brian planned on attending a job fair	, but	the line to get in wrapped around the block.   (It discouraged him. it.)	Brian planned on attending a job fair	though	the line to get in wrapped around the block.   (He stood in it anyway.)
Brian hopes to find another job	, but	few employers are hiring.   (It's unlikely.)	Brian hopes to find another job	though	few employers are hiring.  (He will find someone that is.)
Brian expected to get a lead at the Job Fair	, but	he found nothing in marketing. (He left disappointed.)	Brian expected to get a lead at the Job Fair	though	he found nothing in marketing. (He found options in related fields.)
Brian would like to go back to school	, but	he has no savings.  (He can't pay.)	Brian would like to go back to school	though	he has no savings. (He will try to find other funding or a scholarship.)
Brian wants to get some additional training	, but	he's unsure where to get it. (He's stuck.)	Brian wants to get some additional training	though	he's unsure where to get it. (He will check with counselors at the local community college.)

to face (v.) – to deal with or manage a difficult situation
stuck (adj) – unable to move from a bad situation
setback (n) – a problem that delays or prevents progress
obstacle (n) – a block; something that you must go around to achieve success   

optimistic (adj) – expects a good outcome
pessimistic (adj) – expects a bad outcome
no ifs, ands, or buts (expression) – "If you fail to turn in your application on time, you will be rejected – no ifs, ands, or buts."  (no excuses)