but admittedly

USAGE SUMMARY

"but admittedly" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is used to express something with a hint of reservation, usually something that is assumed or understood to be true. For example, "The new plan looks good on paper, but admittedly, there are still some risks that need to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

BUT admittedly, it was hard to focus on details.

The New York Times

The present theory is simple but admittedly crude.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

But admittedly, I'm in the minority.

The New York Times

But admittedly, some people find the work ponderous.

The New York Times - Arts

But admittedly the standard of education of teachers was fairly poor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But admittedly, this kind of luxury is more rational, more utilitarian, more focused on saving time.

The New York Times

Djokovic holds to 15, but admittedly I was still a little distracted by Murray's website.

The Guardian - Sport

The place has a Run DMC soundtrack, and a friendly (but admittedly sluggish) dog.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Another month has passed, and I've started executing some--but admittedly not all--of those baby steps I wrote about last month.

Science Magazine

The relationship between this pair goes far beyond blatant--but admittedly helpful--pointers like "That man!

Vice

I find it useful but admittedly difficult to keep an open mind to new ideas that contradict my core beliefs.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but admittedly" to introduce a contrasting point that you are willing to concede, even if it weakens your main argument. This can enhance your credibility by showing objectivity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "but admittedly" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable, more precise and formal alternatives may strengthen the overall tone and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but admittedly" functions as a concessive conjunction, introducing a statement that acknowledges a point, often one that might seem to weaken the speaker's argument, before continuing with a contrasting or qualifying statement. This usage aligns with Ludwig's affirmation of its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but admittedly" functions as a concessive conjunction, adding a layer of objectivity and fairness to writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable expression to express something with a hint of reservation. While grammatically sound and frequently used, it is crucial to consider the formality of the context. As exemplified by Ludwig's numerous examples, "but admittedly" finds frequent use in news and media, showcasing its role in balanced reporting and considered commentary. Remember to use it judiciously, especially in more formal settings where alternative phrasing may be preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, I concede

Replaces "but admittedly" with a more formal tone, explicitly stating concession.

yet, I must confess

Emphasizes a reluctant admission, adding a layer of personal disclosure.

though I acknowledge

Provides a slightly more academic or formal way to express acknowledgement.

while it's true

Introduces a statement that acknowledges a point before presenting a contrasting one.

even so, I confess

Similar to "yet, I must confess", but with a stronger emphasis on the contrasting element.

nonetheless, I concede

Combines a formal tone with a sense of yielding to a point.

but to be fair

Introduces a balancing perspective, often used to provide a more objective viewpoint.

having said that

Signals a shift in perspective or a qualification of a previous statement.

that being said

Similar to "having said that", but slightly more formal.

with that in mind

Suggests a consideration of a previous point before introducing a new one.

FAQs

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

Use "but admittedly" to concede a point or acknowledge something that contrasts with your main argument. For example, "The plan has flaws, but admittedly, it's the best option we have".

What are some alternatives to "but admittedly"?

You can use alternatives like "however, I concede", "yet, I must confess", or "though I acknowledge" depending on the context.

Is "but admittedly" appropriate for formal writing?

While acceptable, "but admittedly" might be considered less formal. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "nonetheless, I concede" or "that being said" for a more refined tone.

What's the difference between "but admittedly" and "however"?

"However" introduces a direct contrast, while "but admittedly" acknowledges a potentially undermining point before continuing. "However" presents a simple contrast, but "but admittedly" concedes before contrasting.