But see is a signal indicating that the cited source clearly supports the opposite of whatever the author just said, although an inference is required to see the contradiction. In other words, “but see” indicates that the source that follows clearly, though indirectly, supports a claim (proposition) that is contrary to the claim just made by the author.
Unlike “contra,” which indicates a direct contradiction, “but see” indicates a very likely contradiction.
See also: order of signals and negative signal
[Last updated in July of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]