I agree but

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I agree but" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to express agreement with something while introducing a qualification or an objection. For example: "I agree but there is one more thing to consider before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I agree but feel guilty.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not bats, I agree, but what though?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I agree, but perhaps we're idealists.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not sure I agree, but the policy proposal makes sense.

The Economist

I don't know if I agree but it's interesting.

The New Yorker

I agree, but rule No 1 is labels are scum.

The Guardian - Music

I agree, but I do not assert it.

The New York Times

I agree but what will the judges say?

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

I agreed, but the referee didn't.

The New Yorker

I agreed, but it annoyed me.

The New York Times

I agreed but backed off.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I agree but" to acknowledge a valid point before introducing a counter-argument or limitation. This approach fosters constructive dialogue and shows respect for differing opinions.

Common error

Avoid using "I agree but" as a conversational filler without offering a meaningful contrasting perspective. Always follow with a clear and well-reasoned argument to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I agree but" serves as a discourse marker that combines agreement and contrast. It acknowledges a previous statement while signaling an upcoming qualification or differing opinion. Ludwig examples showcase its common use in expressing nuanced perspectives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I agree but" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to convey partial agreement before introducing a contrasting viewpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across news, science and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the contrasting point is clear and well-supported. Alternatives like "I concur, however" or "While I agree" can provide varied levels of formality. Overusing this phrase without substantial counterpoints should be avoided to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

While I agree

Introduces the agreement as a subordinate clause, shifting the emphasis to the contrasting point.

Granted, but

A shorter, more direct way to acknowledge a point before introducing a contrasting one.

I concur however

Replaces "agree" with "concur" for a more formal tone, and "but" with "however", indicating a contrast.

I do agree still

Uses "still" to soften the contrast, suggesting the agreement remains despite the reservation.

That's a good point although

Acknowledges the validity of the previous statement before introducing a contrasting idea, using "although" to connect the ideas.

I understand nonetheless

Indicates comprehension while introducing a contrasting point, using "nonetheless" for a stronger contrast.

I see your point nevertheless

Acknowledges the other person's perspective before presenting a contrasting view, using "nevertheless" for emphasis.

I concede that however

Expresses agreement through concession, followed by a contrasting point introduced by "however".

I'm with you on that, even so

Shows solidarity before introducing a contrasting view, using "even so" to indicate a contrast.

I find this agreeable yet

Replaces "agree" with "find this agreeable" for a more descriptive and formal tone, using "yet" as a gentle contrast.

FAQs

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

Use "I agree but" to introduce a contrasting point after acknowledging agreement. For example, "I agree but there are other factors to consider."

What's a more formal way to say "I agree but"?

Consider using phrases like "I concur, however" or "While I agree, nonetheless" for a more formal tone. See also: "I concur however".

When is it appropriate to use "I agree but"?

It's appropriate to use "I agree but" when you want to acknowledge a point while introducing a reservation or a different perspective. It is suitable in both conversation and writing.

What are some alternatives to "I agree but" that express disagreement more strongly?

For stronger disagreement, consider "I see your point, but" or "That may be true, but". It depends on the situation and the level of disagreement you want to express. Example: I see your point nevertheless