but also not

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence 'but also not' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that something is not only one thing but also not another. For example, "I was hoping for a promotion, but also not expecting one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But also not really.

The New York Times - Books

They are blood but also not blood.

The New Yorker

But also not the point.

The Guardian

Not Virginia but also not far away.

Princeton University

"It's very different, but also not.

The Guardian

Not your usual flirtation, but also not your usual romance.

The New York Times

He is somewhere in the atmosphere, but also not.

The New Yorker

I see progression every day, but also not good things.

Independent

The results were not promising, but also not conclusive.

The New York Times

The film is a lark, but also not a lark.

The New Yorker

We want comfort but also not to look too terrible.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but also not", ensure that the two contrasting elements are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Clarity enhances the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "but also not" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or convoluted. Strive for a balance by using other conjunctions and transition words to vary your sentence structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but also not" functions as a conjunction, specifically to introduce a contrasting or qualifying element to a previous statement. Ludwig examples show it is used to express something that is not fully one thing or another, adding nuance to the initial assertion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but also not" is a versatile conjunction used to introduce nuanced contrasts. Grammatically sound and frequently employed, as confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to refine statements, implying that something isn't entirely one thing or another. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing, maintaining a neutral tone. When using this construction, it's essential to maintain clarity and avoid overuse. While phrases like "but not exactly" and "however it doesn't" offer similar meanings, "but also not" provides a unique way to present balanced perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but not exactly

This phrase mitigates a prior statement without fully negating it. It implies a near-approximation rather than a direct contradiction.

however, it doesn't

Emphasizes the contrast with a preceding statement by directly negating an element within it.

yet simultaneously

Highlights the co-existence of contrasting elements, focusing on their concurrent nature.

though conversely

Introduces an opposing perspective or element, underscoring the shift in viewpoint.

while on the other hand

Presents a contrasting point of view, often in a balanced or comparative manner.

although not necessarily

Indicates a qualified agreement or acceptance, suggesting a degree of uncertainty or limitation.

nonetheless, it isn't

Acknowledges a preceding statement but proceeds to negate a specific aspect.

but conversely

Highlights a reversal or opposition in the subsequent statement.

conversely though

Like "but conversely", this phrase emphasizes a contrast. The reordering gives more prominence to the contrasting element.

notwithstanding that

Similar to "although", but carries a slightly more formal tone.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but also not" in a sentence?

Use "but also not" to express a nuanced contrast where something isn't entirely one thing or another. For example, "The results were not promising, "but also not" conclusive."

What phrases are similar to "but also not"?

Alternatives include "but not exactly", "however it doesn't", or "while on the other hand", each conveying a slightly different nuance of contrast.

Is it grammatically correct to use "but also not"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms that "but also not" is correct and usable in written English, typically used to express that something is not only one thing but also not another.

What's the difference between "but also not" and "but not"?

"But not" simply negates a previous statement, while "but also not" implies a more complex relationship where something is neither entirely one thing nor the other. It introduces a sense of incompleteness or qualification.