Things that make you go hmmmm: but or though

I do not like the word "but".  A colleague once said that every you said\I said up to the word "but" in a sentence is ignored once the word "but" comes out.  I listened to myself for a few weeks and sure enough, it made sense.

So I started using the word "though".   I have paid particular attention to how other folks use the word "but" in my technical readings. I have found in most cases the word "but" can be replaced with the word "though" or removed all together. 

Per the dictionary:

conj.

1. Despite the fact that; although: He still argues, though he knows he's wrong. Even though it was raining, she walked to work.
2. Conceding or supposing that; even if: Though they may not succeed, they will still try. See Usage Note at although.

adv.

1. However; nevertheless: Snow is not predicted; we can expect some rain, though.
2. Informal. Used as an intensive: Wouldn't that beat all, though?

 and for "but"

conj.

1. On the contrary: the plan caused not prosperity but ruin.
2. Contrary to expectation; yet: She organized her work but accomplished very little. He is tired but happy.
3. Usage Problem. Used to indicate an exception: No one but she saw the prowler.
4. With the exception that; except that. Often used with that: would have joined the band but he couldn't spare the time; would have resisted but that they lacked courage.
5. Informal. Without the result that: It never rains but it pours.
6. Informal. That. Often used after a negative: There is no doubt but right will prevail.
7. That... not. Used after a negative or question: There never is a tax law presented but someone will oppose it.
8. If not; unless: “Ten to one but the police have got them” (Charlotte M. Yonge).
9. Informal. Than: They had no sooner arrived but they turned around and left.

prep.

Usage Problem. Except.

adv.

1. Merely; just; only: hopes that lasted but a moment.
2. Used as an intensive: Get out of here but fast!

Idiom:
but for

Were it not for: except for: We would have reached the summit but for the weather.