but actually for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but actually for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to clarify or contrast a previous statement, indicating that the true purpose or reason is different from what was previously implied. Example: "The event was advertised as a charity fundraiser, but actually for promoting a new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

That is unfortunate not just for the Home Office but actually for the government".

The Guardian

"It's been three years, but actually, for me, it's been 13 years since I've been there".

The New York Times - Sports

Everything we'd call "practical effects" has actually been filmed, not just as though real, but actually for real.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not just intellectually outmoded, not just emotionally somewhat off, but actually, for this reader — as I suspect will be the case for many American readers — downright offensive?

The New York Times - Books

So My Girl was written for the Temptations, but actually for David Ruffin's voice, because he had that rough voice, but I wanted him to sing something sweet.

The Guardian - Music

Only one president, Andrew Johnson in 1868, has been through the whole process: technically, for removing a cabinet officer contrary to statute, but actually for enacting "soft" policies towards the South after the civil war.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

This is not only cheaper than the calcium chloride used in Canada but actually better for the job because of its marl (grit) content.

The Economist

But actually applying for credit may lower your score, depending on your overall financial picture, so you should do so only when you really need to.

The New York Times

Researchers now believe that some of the more entrenched elements of many athletes' warm-up regimens are not only a waste of time but actually bad for you.

The New York Times - Sports

These currently make up 15% of UK homes but actually account for 23% of total national C02 emissions.

BBC

They plan a second ceremony, Slug returns, seemingly reformed but actually working for Hooch.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but actually for" to introduce a clarification or contrast, indicating the true or primary reason when there may be a misunderstanding. For example, "The project was presented as a cost-saving measure, but actually for increasing market share."

Common error

Avoid using "but actually for" when the "actually" is redundant. Ensure that the phrase adds meaningful contrast or clarification, rather than merely restating the obvious. For example, instead of saying, "He seemed busy, but actually for working", consider if 'but actually' is even needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but actually for" functions as a conjunctive phrase used to introduce a clarification or contrast. It signals that the real reason or purpose is different from what might be assumed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but actually for" is a conjunctive phrase used to introduce a clarification or contrast, often correcting a misconception about a reason or purpose. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, science, and wiki sources, making it a versatile phrase for both casual and more formal communication. When using "but actually for", ensure it adds meaningful contrast and avoids redundancy. Alternatives such as "but in reality for" or "but truly for" can offer nuanced variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but in reality for

Replaces "actually" with "in reality", emphasizing the true situation.

but in fact for

Substitutes "actually" with "in fact", stressing the factual basis.

but genuinely for

Replaces "actually" with "genuinely", highlighting the authentic purpose.

but truly for

Substitutes "actually" with "truly", emphasizing the real reason.

but specifically for

Replaces "actually" with "specifically", pointing out a particular purpose.

but precisely for

Substitutes "actually" with "precisely", stressing exactness of the reason.

but really for

Replaces "actually" with "really", offering a simpler alternative.

but fundamentally for

Substitutes "actually" with "fundamentally", indicating the underlying reason.

but essentially for

Replaces "actually" with "essentially", highlighting the core purpose.

but ultimately for

Replaces "actually" with "ultimately", pointing to the final outcome or reason.

FAQs

How can I use "but actually for" in a sentence?

Use "but actually for" to clarify a purpose or reason that differs from what is commonly believed or presented. For example, "The policy was introduced as a measure to improve efficiency, but actually for reducing staff numbers."

What phrases are similar to "but actually for"?

Similar phrases include "but in reality for", "but in fact for", or "but truly for". These alternatives also serve to introduce a contrast or clarification regarding a reason or purpose.

Is "but actually for" formal or informal?

"But actually for" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication. However, consider alternatives like "however in reality" for more formal writing.

What's the difference between "but actually for" and "but really for"?

While both phrases introduce a clarification, "but actually for" often implies a greater degree of surprise or contradiction than "but really for". The choice depends on the desired emphasis and the specific context. Furthermore "but really for" might be more suitable for informal context.