although alas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "although alas" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a contrast or concession while also conveying a sense of regret or disappointment. Example: "Although alas, the project did not receive the funding we hoped for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

(Although, alas, no dowager countess).

The New York Times

Both films are on the program, although, alas, not on a double bill.

The New York Times

She's still thinking about a clothing line, although, alas, the Friggin' L name has been retired.

The Guardian - Music

"She is 32 years old, although alas, according to the website, is married with a son.

The Guardian

It easily gets you through a full day of regular smartphone tasks, although, alas, using the camera slurps down the juice much faster.

The New York Times - Tech

A dozen years later, I had the chance to fly on the Concorde again, this time wide awake, although alas, not at my bosses' expense.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Alas, alas!

The Guardian - Books

Clearly not very good advice, although some, alas, have followed it.

The Guardian - Books

And if the Symbolists appeal, then the varied anxieties of Edvard Munch – although not, alas, The Scream – will be on show at Tate Modern at much the same time (28 June to 14 October).

Independent

He is even forced to cut his post-gig celebrations short, although not, alas, as a result of rock and roll excess: "I'd neglected to get keys to the youth hostel for that night and didn't know how difficult it might be to find in the dark".

The Guardian - Music

She was expressing another wish, although this one, alas, was not to be granted.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "although alas" to introduce a contrasting point that also carries a sense of disappointment or regret. This adds a nuanced emotional layer to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "although alas" excessively in highly formal or business writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly dramatic or sentimental in such settings. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "however" or "unfortunately".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "although alas" is to act as a concessive conjunction phrase. It introduces a clause that contrasts with a previous statement, while the inclusion of "alas" adds an element of regret or disappointment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "although alas" functions as a concessive conjunction expressing both contrast and regret. It is grammatically correct, as Ludwig AI indicates, and is used with moderate frequency in a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, it is advisable to use it with an understanding of the subtle blend of formality and emotional coloring it can bring to a sentence. While acceptable in many situations, overuse in more formal settings should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though unfortunately

Replaces "alas" with a more direct expression of misfortune, making it slightly less formal.

even so, regrettably

Emphasizes the contrasting element while explicitly stating the regret.

while sadly

Uses "sadly" as a synonym for "alas", maintaining a similar tone of disappointment.

however, regrettably

Similar to "even so, regrettably", but with "however" providing a clearer contrast.

though lamentably

A more formal alternative, using "lamentably" to express regret.

despite this, sadly

Highlights the contrast first, then adds the element of sadness.

yet, disappointingly

Uses "disappointingly" to replace "alas", focusing on the feeling of disappointment.

in spite of this, unfortunately

More explicitly states the contrast before introducing the negative outcome.

even though, sadly

Combines a concessive conjunction with an adverb of sadness for a similar effect.

while it's a pity

Expresses regret more directly, indicating that something is unfortunate or a cause for sorrow.

FAQs

What does "although alas" mean?

The phrase "although alas" combines a conjunction indicating contrast with an interjection expressing sorrow or regret. It is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what was previously said, while also expressing disappointment about the situation.

How can I use "although alas" in a sentence?

You can use "although alas" to introduce a contrasting idea that is also regrettable. For example: "Although the team played well, alas, they still lost the game."

What can I say instead of "although alas"?

Alternatives to "although alas" include "though unfortunately", "even so, regrettably", or "while sadly". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "although alas" formal or informal?

"Although alas" leans towards the more formal side due to the presence of "alas". In certain contexts, it can convey a slightly theatrical or literary tone. For more casual writing, alternatives like "though unfortunately" might be more appropriate.