But possibly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But possibly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a suggestion or an idea that may or may not be true or applicable. Example: "The project may face delays, but possibly we can find a way to expedite the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But possibly.

Independent

But possibly not all.

The Economist

But possibly pale blue streaks.

The Economist

But possibly not.

The Guardian - Film

"But possibly a lot more," Goldberg said.

The New Yorker

But possibly also some shocks.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But possibly only up to a point.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But possibly the first to be so open about it.

The Guardian

But possibly there's something a bit strange about him.

The Guardian

But possibly – probably – there's no reason at all.

The Guardian - Opinion

But possibly not quite so pleasing for McIlroy, however.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But possibly" to introduce a contrasting idea that has a chance of being true, even if it seems unlikely at first. This adds nuance to your writing and acknowledges alternative scenarios.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "But possibly" in formal contexts. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound hesitant or lacking confidence. Opt for stronger conjunctions or rephrase to assert your points more directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But possibly" serves as a transitional phrase introducing a contrasting element with an element of uncertainty or possibility. It combines the adversative function of "but" with the qualifying function of "possibly," suggesting an alternative or exception to a preceding statement. As per Ludwig, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "But possibly" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunction phrase to introduce a contrasting idea with a degree of uncertainty. It's common in News & Media and Science contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous real-world examples. When using "But possibly", aim for clarity, avoid overuse in very formal contexts, and ensure that the contrasting idea is genuinely plausible. Alternatives such as "however, perhaps" or "yet, it's conceivable" can provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

However, perhaps

Replaces "but" with "however" for a more formal tone, and "possibly" with "perhaps" maintaining the sense of uncertainty.

Yet, it's conceivable

Uses "yet" to introduce a contrast and "it's conceivable" to suggest something is imaginable or possible.

Still, it is plausible

Similar to the previous, but uses "plausible" to suggest something has a degree of credibility.

On the other hand, maybe

Introduces a different viewpoint with "on the other hand", and uses "maybe" for a more informal possibility.

Nevertheless, it could be

Uses "nevertheless" to indicate a contrast despite something, and "it could be" for a potential scenario.

Then again, perhaps it is

Suggests reconsideration of a previous statement with "then again", followed by a tentative "perhaps it is".

Even so, it's not impossible

Acknowledges a prior condition with "even so", then states that something is still viable.

That being said, it's a chance

Transitions from a previous statement with "that being said", indicating that a possibility exists.

Alternatively, there's a chance

Presents another option or viewpoint with "alternatively", suggesting a different possibility.

Conversely, it might be the case

Introduces an opposite perspective using "conversely", and stating that something may be factual.

FAQs

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

"But possibly" is used to introduce a contrasting idea that has a chance of being true. For example: "The project may face delays, "but possibly" we can find a way to expedite the process."

What can I say instead of "But possibly"?

You can use alternatives like "however, perhaps", "yet, it's conceivable", or "still, it is plausible" depending on the context.

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

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "But possibly". "But" is a coordinating conjunction, and it's acceptable to begin sentences with coordinating conjunctions. "Possibly" simply modifies the statement that follows.

What's the difference between "But possibly" and "Possibly but"?

"But possibly" introduces a contrasting idea that still has a chance of being true, while "Possibly but" emphasizes the uncertainty before introducing a contrasting element. The former is more common and generally preferred. "But possibly" is more readable in most contexts.