But also

USAGE SUMMARY

"But also" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to introduce something in addition to what has already been said. It is often used with a contrast between the two items being mentioned. Example: We wanted to focus on our strengths, but also be honest about our weaknesses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But also?

The New Yorker

But also not really.

The New York Times - Books

"But also funny".

The New York Times

But also look cool.

The New York Times

But also no.

The New York Times

But also, OFFENSE!

The New Yorker

But also that".

The New Yorker

But also "bores"?

The New York Times

But also happy.

The New Yorker

But also larger.

The New York Times

But also hilarrifying.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your sentence structure. While "but also" is useful, overuse can make your writing monotonous. Consider alternative conjunctions or transitional phrases.

Common error

Avoid using "but also" when a simple "but" or "also" suffices. Redundant use can weaken your writing. For example, instead of "It was expensive, but it was also well-made", consider "It was expensive but well-made".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But also" functions as a conjunctive adverb or transition. It connects two ideas, often introducing a contrasting or additional element to the preceding statement. As Ludwig AI shows, it's frequently used to add nuance or complexity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "But also" serves as a valuable conjunctive adverb, smoothly introducing contrasting or complementary elements in a sentence. As noted by Ludwig AI, its widespread presence in news and media highlights its utility in delivering nuanced information. To maintain writing quality, consider alternative conjunctions, but don't shy away from "But also" when it best captures the relationship between ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Also

A direct synonym, but without the "but" conjunction.

In addition

A more formal way to introduce additional information.

Furthermore

Emphasizes the addition of information, often in a more formal context.

Moreover

Similar to "furthermore", but can also imply a strengthening of the previous point.

As well

A more concise way to indicate inclusion, typically placed at the end of a clause.

Besides

Suggests an additional point that is relevant or important.

Too

A simple way to indicate inclusion, often used in informal contexts.

On the other hand

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint or aspect.

However

A more direct and concise way to indicate contrast.

That being said

Introduces a contrasting point or concession, often in a conversational tone.

FAQs

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

"But also" is used to introduce a contrasting or additional point. For example, "The movie was entertaining, "but also" thought-provoking".

What phrases are similar to "But also"?

Alternatives to "But also" include "in addition", "furthermore", or "moreover", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "But also"?

While it's generally acceptable, starting a sentence with "But also" can sometimes sound informal. Consider whether a different conjunction or transitional phrase might be more appropriate for formal writing.

What's the difference between "But also" and "However"?

"But also" introduces an additional or contrasting point, whereas "however" primarily indicates a contrast or contradiction. "But also" combines addition and contrast; "however" focuses solely on contrast.