But even

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But even" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or to emphasize a point that may seem unexpected or surprising. Example: "But even with all the challenges we faced, we managed to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But even the C.B.O.

The New York Times

But even the I.M.F.

The New York Times

But even giants stumble.

The New Yorker

But even this is misleading.

Independent

But even ordinary commerce astounds.

The New Yorker

But even this isn't working.

The New York Times

But even that isn't enough.

The New York Times

But even here, interests diverge.

The Economist

But even that poses challenges.

The New York Times

But even that's a stretch.

The New York Times

But even that seemed morbid.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But even" to introduce a surprising or unexpected contrast to a previous statement. It adds emphasis and can make your writing more impactful.

Common error

Avoid starting every sentence with "But even". Vary your sentence structure by using alternatives like "Nevertheless" or "However" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But even" functions as a conjunction phrase, primarily serving to introduce a contrasting or surprising element following a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage. It serves to highlight an unexpected twist or outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "But even" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a contrast or surprising element. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. It is found most frequently in news and media, but also appears in formal business and scientific contexts. While versatile, it is essential to avoid overuse in simple sentences. Alternatives like "nevertheless" or "however" can help diversify writing. Its role is to signal an unexpected twist or outcome, adding emphasis and interest to the narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Even so

Expresses a similar sentiment of contrast, though it might imply a slightly weaker degree of contradiction compared to "but even".

Even then

Similar to "but even", but specifically refers to a point in time, implying that something unexpected happened even at that moment.

And yet

A more succinct way of expressing contrast, similar to "but even" in introducing an unexpected twist or outcome.

Yet still

Emphasizes continuation despite an opposing factor, similar to "but even" in highlighting a surprising persistence.

However

A common conjunction to introduce contrast, generally interchangeable, yet slightly less emphatic than "but even".

Nevertheless

A more formal way of indicating contrast, akin to "but even" in introducing an unexpected element.

Nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless", this term conveys contrast but may carry a slightly stronger sense of surprise than "but even".

Despite that

Highlights that something occurs regardless of a preceding factor, mirroring the contrasting function of "but even".

In spite of everything

Emphasizes that something is true despite numerous obstacles, similar to the contrasting function of "but even".

Still and all

This phrase is a slightly folksier way of saying "but even" and provides a similar meaning with different register.

FAQs

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

"But even" is typically used to introduce a surprising or contrasting element to a previous statement. For example, "The task was difficult, but even with the challenges, we succeeded."

What are some alternatives to "But even"?

You can use alternatives like "however", "nevertheless", or "even so" depending on the context.

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

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "But even". It's a common way to introduce a contrasting point.

How does "But even" differ from "Even if"?

"But even" introduces a contrast to a previous statement, while "even if" introduces a hypothetical situation. For example, "The weather was bad, but even then, we went for a walk" (contrast) vs. "Even if it rains, we will go for a walk" (hypothetical).