But alternatively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But alternatively" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a different option or perspective in a discussion or argument. Example: "We could go to the beach for our vacation. But alternatively, we could explore the mountains instead."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But alternatively the matter could be taken to the federal court for a hearing.

The Guardian

But alternatively, there are tiny former fishing villages that dot the coast like easygoing Punta del Diablo and Cabo Polonio.

Huffington Post

But alternatively, I guess you could say that he sought to destroy himself by launching that case against Roman Abramovich, which totally blew up.

Huffington Post

But, alternatively, the deranged control mechanism itself could be commandeered or its set point adjusted.

eLife

Sales of diesel and petrol cars were up but alternatively fuelled vehicles saw the biggest increase, up 59% in October.

The Guardian - Business

The concept is probably rooted in a culture that values goofing around, preferably at the beach but alternatively in front of a screen.

The New York Times - Tech

"Then," Mr. Farley says, "move into power training," like jumping onto and off boxes or stair steps, followed by "surf-specific training, such as paddling with resistance," preferably in a pool but alternatively on a rowing machine in a gym.

The New York Times

This could be because the film has a good understanding of genre pacing, but alternatively it could signal the moment that the house lights inexplicably came on in the middle of the film, or when the woman next to me screamed so loudly that everyone at the screening briefly thought she was being physically assaulted.

The Guardian - Film

It has generally been assumed that death of neurons causes neurotransmitter loss, but alternatively neurotransmitter depletion itself may at least contribute to neurodegeneration.

Medical Hypotheses

In our study we did not perform CAP- scoring, but alternatively scored D- and K-bursts similar to CAP A1 bursts [22].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

One unit will cost a whopping US$7,800, but alternatively, buyers can opt for a US$180 monthly lease plan that includes the cloud-based management service.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but alternatively" to introduce a contrasting option after presenting an initial idea or plan. It helps to show different perspectives or choices available.

Common error

Avoid using "but alternatively" in very simple sentences where "or" or "instead" would be more concise and effective. For example, instead of saying "We can eat pizza, but alternatively, we can have pasta", simply say "We can eat pizza, or we can have pasta".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but alternatively" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, connecting two contrasting options or possibilities. It signals that what follows is a different approach or choice. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but alternatively" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to introduce contrasting options or perspectives. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various writing contexts. While predominantly found in science and news media, it remains appropriate for formal and business communications. To enhance clarity and conciseness, consider alternatives like "on the other hand" or "conversely" in simpler sentences. Remember to use it to showcase different options rather than simply contrasting ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the other hand

This phrase presents a contrasting viewpoint or option, similar to "but alternatively" while being more common.

conversely

This offers a direct contrast, highlighting an opposite perspective.

instead

Implies a replacement of one option with another.

by contrast

This highlights differences between two things, introducing the second one.

as an alternative

Directly states that the following option is a substitute.

in contrast

Similar to "by contrast" but can be used to set up a longer comparison.

another option is

Explicitly introduces an additional choice.

then again

Indicates a second thought or a different possibility.

as a substitute

Emphasizes the replacement aspect of the alternative.

differently

Describes an action being done in another way.

FAQs

How can I use "but alternatively" in a sentence?

Use "but alternatively" to present a different option after stating an initial possibility. For example: "We could go to the movies; but alternatively, we could stay home and watch a film".

What phrases are similar to "but alternatively"?

Similar phrases include "on the other hand", "conversely", or "instead", which offer different ways to introduce a contrasting option.

Is it better to use "but alternatively" or "however" when presenting a contrasting option?

"However" introduces a contrast or qualification to a previous statement, while "but alternatively" specifically introduces another option or possibility. The best choice depends on the context.

Can I start a sentence with "but alternatively"?

Starting a sentence with "but alternatively" is grammatically correct but can sometimes sound less formal. Consider using "on the other hand" or "conversely" for a more formal tone.