But already

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But already" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has occurred sooner than expected or to introduce a contrast with a previous statement. Example: "The project was supposed to take months, but already we have made significant progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But already the jokes fly.

The Economist

But already he is losing his cool.

The New Yorker

But already the moment was gone.

The New Yorker

But already that's beginning to change.

The New Yorker

But already she was suppressing a grin.

The New Yorker

But already there were signs of revival.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But already some changes are clear.

The Economist

But already people are bouncing back".

The New York Times

But already the plan has weaknesses.

The Economist

But already, a few things are clear.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But that already existed.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But already" to introduce a situation or realization that occurs sooner or more quickly than expected, adding an element of surprise or contrast to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "But already" multiple times in a single paragraph. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Instead, vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

"But already" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas or events. It often introduces a situation that has emerged sooner than expected, adding emphasis and surprise. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to indicate a shift or development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "But already" serves as a conjunction phrase used to introduce a contrasting or unexpected development, often implying that something has occurred sooner than anticipated. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and highly prevalent, especially in news and media contexts. While it's considered neutral in tone, favoring it in moderation can enhance the impact of your message. When used correctly, "But already" helps to create a sense of immediacy and surprise in the narrative. To avoid redundancy, consider synonymous alternatives such as "however, by now" or "yet, at this point". Therefore, ensure to correctly introduce a situation or realization that occurs quicker than expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

But so quickly

Highlights the speed at which something happened in contrast to what was before.

However, by now

Emphasises a contrast that has become apparent by the present time.

So soon, however

Indicates the quick nature of something by contrasting it with what was before.

Yet, at this point

Highlights a contrast that exists at the current stage or moment.

Even at this stage

Underlines that something is happening so early in the process.

Nevertheless, even now

Stresses a contrast that persists up to the present moment.

Still, at this juncture

Presents a contrasting point that exists at the current stage.

Nonetheless, so early

Highlights how something happened despite it being early.

Even so, thus early

Highlights how something happened despite it being early days.

Nonetheless, this quickly

Emphasises how something happened quickly in the context of what came before.

FAQs

How can I use "But already" in a sentence?

"But already" is used to show a contrast or a development that has occurred sooner than expected. For example: "The project was supposed to take months, but already we are seeing significant progress."

What phrases are similar to "But already"?

Alternatives include "however by now", "yet at this point", or "nevertheless even now", depending on the context.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "But already"?

Yes, it is grammatically acceptable to begin a sentence with "But already", especially to emphasize a contrast or unexpected development. However, ensure the sentence flows logically from the previous context.

What's the difference between "But already" and "However, at this point"?

"But already" often implies a sense of surprise or speed, whereas "however, at this point" is a more neutral way to introduce a contrast. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.