but also

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but also" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "but also" to introduce an additional idea or fact that contrasts with or adds onto something that has already been stated. For example: I need to exercise more, but also eat healthier foods.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But also?

The New Yorker

But also not really.

The New York Times - Books

Rebellious but also fragile.

The New Yorker

"But also funny".

The New York Times

Untitled, but also unfocused.

The New York Times

But also look cool.

The New York Times

But also no.

The New York Times

But also, OFFENSE!

The New Yorker

But also that".

The New Yorker

But also "bores"?

The New York Times

But also happy.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but also" to introduce a contrasting yet complementary idea, ensuring both parts of the statement are balanced in importance. For example, "The plan is ambitious, "but also" achievable".

Common error

Avoid using "but also" excessively in close succession, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your conjunctions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but also" functions as a conjunction, adding information that contrasts with or supplements a previous statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role in introducing related yet distinct ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but also" is a versatile conjunction used to introduce contrasting yet complementary information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. When writing, use "but also" to add depth to your statements, but be mindful of overusing it. Alternatives such as "furthermore" or "moreover" can help vary your language while achieving a similar effect. Overall, "but also" is a valuable tool for creating nuanced and informative sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

and furthermore

Emphasizes adding more information, similar to "but also" which introduces additional points.

however, additionally

Combines a contrast with an addition, mirroring the dual nature of "but also".

yet in addition

Implies a contrast followed by an additive element, akin to "but also".

while at the same time

Suggests simultaneous contrasting and complementary aspects, similar to "but also".

not only that, but

Highlights an additional point, often emphasizing surprise or escalation, similar to adding information with "but also".

as well as

Directly adds an element without strong contrast, focusing on inclusion, like "but also".

moreover

Adds information with a sense of importance or emphasis, similar to "but also".

furthermore

Implies a continuation of thought, adding related information, like "but also".

in addition to that

Explicitly states an additive relationship, similar to clarifying with "but also".

on the other hand, plus

Combines contrast and addition, reflecting the nuanced use of "but also".

FAQs

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

Use "but also" to connect two contrasting, yet related ideas or facts. For instance, "He is intelligent, but also "hardworking"" shows both qualities.

What's a good alternative to "but also"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "furthermore", "moreover", or "in addition" to introduce an additional point.

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

While starting a sentence with "but" is sometimes discouraged, beginning with "but also" is generally considered less formal. It's better to connect it to a previous clause for clearer flow.

What is the difference between "but also" and "and also"?

"But also" implies a contrast or unexpected addition, while "and also" simply adds more information without a sense of contrast. Use "but also" when there's a subtle tension between the ideas.