But mostly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But mostly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a primary focus or main point after mentioning other aspects or details. Example: "I enjoy many types of music, but mostly I listen to jazz."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But mostly, they cook.

The New York Times

But mostly he listens.

The New York Times

But mostly, she listened.

The New York Times

But mostly they didn't.

The New Yorker

But mostly, solitude pervades.

The New York Times

"But mostly amazing".

The New York Times

But mostly, I did.

The New York Times - Books

But mostly outrage.

The New York Times

But mostly the best.

Independent

But mostly, Thorgerson delivered.

The Guardian - Music

But mostly just different.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But mostly" to transition from secondary details to the primary focus of your sentence or paragraph. It helps to guide the reader to what is most important.

Common error

Avoid using "But mostly" when you intend to give equal weight to multiple points. This phrase indicates a clear hierarchy where one aspect is more significant than the others.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But mostly" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two related ideas while emphasizing the latter as the primary or most important one. As Ludwig AI examples show, it commonly introduces a key aspect following a series of related but less significant details.

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, the phrase "But mostly" is a versatile conjunction phrase that serves to highlight the primary focus of a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in news and media. When using "But mostly", ensure that you are indeed shifting emphasis to a more significant point, avoiding its use when all points are intended to carry equal weight. Alternatives like "mainly" or "primarily" can offer similar emphasis in different contexts. Understanding its function helps writers clearly convey their intended focus, guiding the reader to the most important information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mainly

Indicates the principal component or action, similar to focusing on what's key.

Primarily

Focuses directly on the main aspect, omitting the initial contrasting element.

Principally

Points to the foremost or leading element in a situation.

Chiefly

Emphasizes the leading or dominant element.

Essentially

Distills the idea down to its most fundamental nature.

Predominantly

Highlights the most conspicuous or influential element.

Largely

Indicates the major portion or extent of something.

For the most part

Highlights a general tendency or prevailing condition.

In general

Offers a broader overview while still emphasizing the main point.

Above all

Signifies the most important aspect or element to consider.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "But mostly" in a sentence?

Use "But mostly" to signal a shift from less important details to the key aspect you want to emphasize. It creates a clear focal point for your reader. For example, "I enjoy various outdoor activities, but mostly I love hiking".

What are some good alternatives to "But mostly"?

Consider using phrases like "mainly", "primarily", or "essentially" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While starting a sentence with "But" is sometimes discouraged, it's acceptable in many contexts, especially when used for emphasis or transition. Following it with "mostly" is grammatically sound if it maintains a clear connection to the preceding idea.

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

"But mostly" indicates a primary focus among several options, while "But also" introduces an additional point of equal or lesser importance. Using "But mostly" implies that the following aspect is more significant than what was previously mentioned, whereas "But also" simply adds another element.