but again

USAGE SUMMARY

"but again" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce a corrected or modified version of something you've already said. For example: "I thought my idea was good, but again, it may be too complicated to implement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But again problems arose.

The New York Times - Arts

But again, no makeup.

The New York Times

But again the look.

The New Yorker

But again misleading.

The New York Times

But again, context matters.

The New York Times

But, again, look long.

The New Yorker

But again — the airbrushing!

The New Yorker

But again, it's complicated.

The New York Times

But again nothing came.

The New Yorker

But again France has resisted.

The Economist

But again there was resistance.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but again" to introduce a contrasting point that builds upon a previous statement, adding a layer of complexity or qualification to your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "but again" repeatedly within a short space. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony. Alternatives such as "however" or "nevertheless" can add nuance.

Linguistic Context

"But again" functions as a conjunction phrase, linking two contrasting ideas or statements. It introduces a secondary point that either qualifies or contradicts a preceding one. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage for adding nuance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but again" is a common conjunction phrase used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying point, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its frequency is high across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, overuse in close proximity should be avoided to maintain writing clarity and engagement. Consider alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" for variety. The Ludwig AI analysis reinforces its versatility and correct usage in numerous contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however

A more formal and concise way to introduce a contrast.

yet again

Emphasizes repetition or recurrence.

nevertheless

Implies a stronger contrast than "but again".

on the other hand

Introduces an alternative perspective.

still

A simpler way to indicate a continuing state or action despite something.

even so

Indicates that the following statement is true despite what has just been said.

once more

Focuses on the repeated nature of an event or situation.

despite that

Similar to "in spite of that", but can be slightly less formal.

that being said

A transitional phrase that introduces a contrasting or qualifying statement.

in spite of that

Highlights a contrast despite a preceding fact.

FAQs

How can I use "but again" effectively in a sentence?

Use "but again" to introduce a contrasting point or qualification following a previous statement. For example, "The plan seemed perfect, but again, unforeseen challenges arose".

What are some alternatives to "but again"?

Alternatives include "however", "nevertheless", "on the other hand", or "yet again" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but again"?

While starting a sentence with "but" is sometimes discouraged, using "but again" to start a sentence is acceptable, especially for emphasis or to indicate a continuation of a previous thought with a contrasting element.

What's the difference between "but again" and "but still"?

"But again" typically introduces a new, often recurring, contrasting point, while "but still" emphasizes that something remains true despite a previous statement. For example, "The team faced challenges, but again, they persevered" versus "The team faced challenges, but still, they remained optimistic".