but anyways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'but anyways' is correct and can be used in written English in informal contexts.
It is used to change the topic of conversation or to restart the conversation after a pause. Example: "I'm not sure what to do about the project next. But anyways, how was your weekend?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

But anyways, we started arguing about who won the Cold War, etc.

The Washington Post

I'm sure that these changes could also pertain to the Fairway at 125th Street, I just have never been there — but anyways, they don't have great cookies.

The New Yorker

But anyways, the fun doesn't stop here, kids!

TechCrunch

But anyways, back to the bachelor party.

Vice

But anyways, there are 100 icon-workers in the graph.

Huffington Post

But anyways I am so proud of who you are and what you've accomplished.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

But anyway.

Cornell University

But anyway, they're gone.

Cornell University

But anyway, I go on.

Cornell University

But, anyway: art.

The Guardian - Travel

But anyway, it's nonsense.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but anyways" in informal settings to create a conversational tone, especially when transitioning between topics or resuming after a digression.

Common error

Avoid using "but anyways" in formal writing or presentations. Opt for more professional alternatives like "however", "nevertheless", or "in any case" to maintain a polished and authoritative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but anyways" primarily functions as a discourse marker, signaling a transition or redirection in a conversation or text. It connects a previous statement with a new, often contrasting or unrelated, idea. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

18%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but anyways" is a correct and common phrase used to transition or redirect conversations, as affirmed by Ludwig. While grammatically sound, its use is primarily suited for informal contexts, like casual chats or less formal writing. More formal settings benefit from alternatives like "however" or "in any case". Ludwig's examples show its frequency in news and media, making it a familiar, albeit informal, connector. When aiming for professional polish, opt for its more sophisticated counterparts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anyway

Omits the conjunction "but", making the phrase slightly more concise.

so

A simple way to transition to a new point or continue a narrative.

anywho

Informal and playful variation of "anyway".

in any case

More formal alternative, suitable for professional settings.

with that said

Introduces a statement that might contrast with what was previously said.

regardless

Emphasizes a lack of concern for what preceded the statement.

moving on

Directly indicates a shift in topic or focus.

nonetheless

Similar to "regardless" but slightly more subtle.

getting back to the point

Signals a return to the main subject after a digression.

be that as it may

Highly formal and somewhat archaic, best for written contexts.

FAQs

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

"But anyways" is typically used to shift the conversation or bring it back on track. For example, "We were talking about the budget, "but anyways", let's discuss the marketing strategy."

What are some alternatives to "but anyways"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "however", "in any case", "nonetheless", or simply "anyway" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "but anyways"?

While some consider it informal, "but anyways" is widely accepted in casual conversation. However, it's best to use more formal alternatives in professional writing.

What's the difference between "but anyways" and "anyway"?

"Anyway" is a more concise and versatile option that works in both formal and informal settings. "But anyways" adds a slightly more conversational feel but is generally reserved for informal contexts.