but all the same

USAGE SUMMARY

"but all the same" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used as a transition phrase when you are making an unexpected shift in thought or topic. For example: I don't often eat out, but all the same I find myself drawn to restaurants after a long day of work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But all the same.

The New Yorker

Nothing too drastic, but all the same.

The Guardian

Yeah, I know, but all the same..

The Guardian - Sport

But, all the same, you feel uneasy.

The New Yorker

But all the same, there is that possibility.

University of California, Berkeley

It was only a practice match, but all the same.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Not surprising, but sad all the same.

The New York Times

Good guesses, but guesses all the same.

The New Yorker

But evidence all the same.

University of California, Berkeley

Positive bullshit, but bullshit all the same.

Vice

But great fun all the same.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but all the same" to introduce a contrasting idea that doesn't negate the previous statement entirely, but adds a layer of complexity or nuance.

Common error

While versatile, relying too heavily on "but all the same" can make writing sound repetitive. In formal contexts, consider stronger conjunctions like "nevertheless" or "however" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but all the same" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It serves to introduce a contrast or concession, indicating that despite a previous statement, a different or unexpected situation or feeling still exists or applies. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but all the same" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrast or concession, signaling a shift in perspective. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and very common phrase, predominantly found in news and media sources. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it is essential to consider context, as more formal alternatives like "nevertheless" or "nonetheless" may be more appropriate in certain writing styles. Remember that overusing this phrase can lead to redundancy, so vary your transitional phrases for clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nevertheless

A formal alternative, emphasizing contrast despite a previous statement.

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless" but may carry a slightly stronger sense of concession.

even so

A concise alternative indicating that something is still true despite what has been said.

all the same

Omits the conjunction "but", creating a slightly less emphatic contrast.

however

A general-purpose contrast connector, suitable for many situations where "but all the same" is used.

yet

A more concise and slightly more literary way to express contrast.

still

Indicates that something remains true despite a conflicting factor.

in spite of that

A more explicit and somewhat formal way to express contrast.

despite that

Similar to "in spite of that", but perhaps slightly more common in everyday speech.

that being said

Introduces a contrasting point after acknowledging a previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "but all the same" in a sentence?

Use "but all the same" to introduce a contrasting point that doesn't completely negate the previous statement. For example: "I knew it was a bad idea, but all the same, I tried it anyway."

What phrases are similar to "but all the same"?

Alternatives to "but all the same" include "nevertheless", "nonetheless", "even so", and "however". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "but" before "all the same"?

No, the "but" can be omitted. "All the same" works as a standalone phrase to introduce a contrasting idea, though including "but" often provides a smoother transition.

What's the difference between "but all the same" and "in spite of that"?

"But all the same" is generally less formal than "in spite of that". "In spite of that" often implies a more significant obstacle or contrasting situation.