But still

USAGE SUMMARY

"But still" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to contrast or add emphasis to a previous statement. Example: "I know we've been through a lot, but still, I can't help but feel grateful for your support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But still.

The New York Times

But still he blushed.

The New Yorker

But still, chop chop.

The New York Times - Sports

But, still, a lawn.

The New York Times - Sports

But still it's boring.

The New York Times - Magazine

But still they campaign.

The Economist

But still, a mess.

The New York Times

But still surveillance grows.

Independent

But still: instant relief.

The New York Times

But still, it is.

The New York Times

But still something sparkles.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But still" to smoothly transition between contrasting ideas, providing a nuanced perspective in your writing.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "But still" in close succession, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But still" functions as a transitional phrase, linking two contrasting ideas or statements. Ludwig examples show it introducing a continuing action or state despite an obstacle or initial condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"But still" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to introduce a contrast or continuation despite a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse to maintain writing clarity and flow. Consider alternatives like "nevertheless" or "however" to add variety. The phrase functions effectively as a transitional element, contributing to nuanced and balanced writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nevertheless

Emphasizes contrast more formally.

Even so

Indicates that something is true despite what has just been said.

Yet

A concise way to introduce a contrasting point.

All the same

Implies that something remains unchanged despite previous information.

However

A common formal alternative for introducing contrast.

Nonetheless

A stronger and more formal version of "nevertheless".

Despite that

Highlights a contrast despite a preceding fact.

In spite of that

Similar to "despite that" but slightly more emphatic.

That being said

Used to introduce a contrasting point or opinion.

Even with that

Emphasizes that something holds true, even considering a prior point.

FAQs

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

Use "But still" to introduce a contrasting element or a surprising continuation after a previous statement. For example: "The weather was terrible, "but still" we enjoyed our vacation".

What are some alternatives to "But still"?

You can use alternatives like "nevertheless", "even so", or "however" to introduce a contrasting idea.

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

Yes, starting a sentence with "But still" is grammatically acceptable and commonly used to create a smooth transition or introduce a contrasting point.

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

"But still" often implies a sense of continuation despite an obstacle, while "however" is a more general way to introduce a contrast.