are but

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are but" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is merely or only a certain way, often in a more formal or literary context. Example: "These challenges are but stepping stones to greater success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Proposal forms are but one piece of the puzzle.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

We are but their reflection.

The New York Times

Such numbers are but guesses.

The New York Times

These are but fantasies.

The New York Times - Arts

These are but a couple of questions.

The New Yorker

No, we are, but we stand".

Independent

Yes, we are, but only in part.

The Economist

Present and future are but words.

Independent

Sometimes they are, but not always.

The New York Times - Sports

Well, some are, but many are not.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Actually, we are -- but not nearly enough.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are but" to add a touch of formality or literary flair to your writing when you want to express that something is merely or only a certain way. Ensure that the context is appropriate for this slightly elevated style.

Common error

Avoid using "are but" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your text sound overly formal or pretentious. Reserve it for situations where the tone is appropriate and the phrasing adds a desired nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are but" functions as a copular verb phrase followed by an adverb, used to express limitation or insignificance. Ludwig provides examples where it connects a subject to a descriptive element, emphasizing its minimal or restricted nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are but" is a grammatically sound construction used to express that something is merely or only a certain way. Though correct, Ludwig indicates the phrase is used with caution since it might sound a little bit old and might be more indicated in formal or literary context. While not overly common, it appears in various reliable sources. When aiming for clarity and modernity, consider employing synonyms such as "are merely" or "are simply" for enhanced accessibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are merely

Emphasizes the insignificance or simplicity of something.

are simply

Highlights the straightforward or uncomplicated nature of something.

are only

Focuses on the exclusivity or limited quantity of something.

are no more than

Stresses the minimal or negligible amount of something.

constitute just

Indicates that something forms a small part of a whole.

amount to only

Highlights the limited total or extent of something.

are nothing more than

Intensifies the insignificance or lack of value of something.

represent only

Indicates that something is a small or limited representation of something else.

consist of only

Emphasizes the limited components or elements of something.

are equivalent to only

Highlights that the things are equal in value or meaning.

FAQs

What does "are but" mean?

"Are but" means "are merely" or "are only". It's a slightly formal way of expressing that something is limited or insignificant.

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

You can use "are but" to downplay the significance of something, like in the sentence "These challenges "are but" minor setbacks on the path to success".

What can I say instead of "are but"?

You can use alternatives like "are merely", "are simply", or "are only" depending on the context.

Is "are but" formal or informal?

"Are but" leans towards the formal side. In casual conversation, it's better to use more common alternatives like "are just" or "are only".