but arguably

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but arguably" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a counterpoint or alternative perspective to a statement or argument. Example: "The new economic policies have significantly improved the country's GDP, but arguably, they have also widened the economic divide between the rich and the poor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But arguably it does now.

The New York Times

But, arguably, this distinction is misplaced.

The New York Times

Extremely well meaning, but arguably niche.

The Guardian

But arguably their greatest day-to-day influence is indirect.

The Economist

The situation is similar in Europe, but arguably even worse.

The New York Times

But arguably it isn't the basket case some numbers suggest.

The New York Times

Only Germany is younger, but arguably more talented.

The New York Times

Answers is growing, but arguably full of rubbish.

The Economist

But arguably Kruis's greatest attribute is his communication.

The Guardian - Sport

But arguably it is time for a human exportstop.

The Guardian - Opinion

But arguably the most dapper of golfers was Jimmy Demaret.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but arguably" to introduce a nuanced counterpoint, not a direct contradiction. It works best when the preceding statement has some validity, but an alternative perspective exists.

Common error

Avoid using "but arguably" multiple times within a single paragraph or in consecutive sentences. Overuse can weaken your writing and make it sound indecisive. Vary your phrasing to introduce different perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but arguably" functions as a discourse marker, specifically a contrastive conjunction. It signals a shift in perspective, introducing a counterargument or alternative interpretation to a preceding statement. Ludwig examples show it frequently used to add nuance to claims.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but arguably" is a frequently used conjunction phrase that introduces a degree of uncertainty or a counterpoint to a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and highlights its prevalence in News & Media and Science sources. When writing, use "but arguably" to introduce a nuanced counterpoint, not a direct contradiction, and avoid overuse. The provided alternatives, such as "however, it could be argued", can help vary your writing. By considering these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "but arguably" into your writing to present balanced and thoughtful arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, it could be argued

Replaces "but arguably" with a more formal tone, emphasizing the possibility of a different argument.

yet, one might contend

Introduces a contrasting point with a slightly more assertive tone than "but arguably".

nonetheless, it's debatable

Highlights the debatable nature of the preceding statement, similar to "but arguably".

still, it is open to question

Emphasizes that the previous statement is not definitively settled, akin to "but arguably".

even so, a case can be made

Suggests that despite what was previously stated, there's still a valid argument to be made, similar to "but arguably".

on the other hand, it's possible

Presents an alternative possibility, mirroring the function of "but arguably".

that said, it's conceivable

Introduces a contrasting point by suggesting that something is conceivable despite the previous statement, resembling "but arguably".

conversely, one could maintain

Offers a directly opposing view, maintaining a similar function to "but arguably" but with stronger contrast.

in contrast, it may be asserted

Emphasizes the contrasting nature of the following statement, similar to "but arguably" but with a more formal tone.

by contrast, a different view holds

Directly opposes the previous statement, highlighting a difference in perspective, similar to "but arguably" but with more emphasis on the contrast.

FAQs

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

Use "but arguably" to introduce a counterpoint or alternative perspective that is reasonable but not necessarily definitive. For instance, "The policy has shown positive results, but arguably, its long-term effects are still uncertain".

What are some alternatives to "but arguably"?

You can use alternatives like "however, it could be argued", "yet, one might contend", or "nonetheless, it's debatable" to introduce a contrasting viewpoint.

Is it better to use "but arguably" or "but definitely"?

"But arguably" introduces uncertainty or an alternative perspective, while "but definitely" asserts a certain fact. The choice depends on whether you want to express doubt or certainty about the following statement.

What's the difference between "but arguably" and "however"?

"However" generally introduces a direct contrast, while "but arguably" introduces a debatable or nuanced counterpoint. "However" is more straightforward, while "but arguably" suggests that there is room for discussion.