but I told

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but I told" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you previously communicated something, often in a context of disagreement or clarification. Example: "I understand your concerns, but I told you that the meeting was rescheduled for next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But I told her anyway.

The New Yorker

But I told him they came down.

The New Yorker

"Yeah, but I told you," Roxanne said.

The New Yorker

But I told him, 'We are badasses.

The New Yorker

"But I told her," he said.

The New York Times - Health

"But I told her, she's really, really experienced".

The New York Times

But I told him everybody was doing it back then.

The New York Times

But I told him, and he flipped out.

The New York Times - Arts

But I told them opening the boxes would destroy them.

The New York Times

"But I told them, 'Look, he can communicate.

The New Yorker

"But I told him why I needed him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but I told" to politely remind someone of information you've already shared, particularly when their current action or statement contradicts what you previously communicated.

Common error

Avoid using "but I told" repeatedly in a conversation, as it can sound condescending or dismissive. Instead, try rephrasing your point or offering additional context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but I told" functions as a conjunction phrase introducing a statement that contrasts with or contradicts a previous statement or action. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts where a prior communication needs to be emphasized. The examples showcase its role in clarifying misunderstandings or highlighting previously conveyed information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but I told" is a common and grammatically correct way to emphasize a prior communication, often in response to a contradiction or misunderstanding. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used in news and media sources and holds a neutral register. While effective for reminding someone of previously shared information, it's crucial to avoid overusing it to maintain a polite tone. Consider alternatives like "but I mentioned" for a softer approach. The abundance of examples proves its consistent usage across a spectrum of contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, I mentioned

Replaces "told" with "mentioned", softening the tone while still indicating a prior communication.

yet, I informed them

Uses "informed" for a more formal tone, implying a clear transmission of information.

nonetheless, I conveyed

Employs "conveyed" to highlight the act of transmitting a message, potentially with nuance.

still, I communicated

Focuses on the act of communication, suggesting a broader exchange of information.

even so, I advised

"Advised" implies giving counsel, shifting the context from mere telling to offering guidance.

despite that, I shared

"Shared" suggests a more personal or informal disclosure of information.

regardless, I notified

"Notified" is suitable when the primary goal was to provide official notice.

in spite of that, I had said

Emphasizes the act of speaking previously, adding a layer of insistence.

be that as it may, I let them know

"Let them know" is a more casual way of indicating that information was provided.

after all, I had explained

Replacing "told" with "explained" suggests a more detailed and reasoned communication.

FAQs

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

You can use "but I told" to emphasize that you previously communicated something, often in a context of disagreement or clarification. For example: "I understand your concerns, "but I told" you that the meeting was rescheduled for next week."

What's a less confrontational way to say "but I told"?

Alternatives like "but I mentioned" or "but I had said" can soften the tone while still reminding the listener of previous information.

Which is more appropriate, "but I told him" or "but I said to him"?

"But I told him" is generally more common and natural-sounding. "But I said to him" is grammatically correct, but can sound slightly more formal or stilted. It's preferable to use "but I told".

What's the difference between "but I told" and "but I explained"?

"But I told" simply indicates that you communicated something. "But I explained" implies that you provided a detailed account or rationale. If you only conveyed information, "but I told" is more accurate, but if you expanded information and provided reasons then "but I explained" is more appropriate.