but at the present time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but at the present time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the current situation or status in contrast to a previous or future time. Example: "We are considering expanding our services, but at the present time, we are focusing on improving our existing offerings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

But at the present time we would not find it possible to accept the new solution as proposed by substituting the word "may" for the word "shall".

Yale University

But at the present time, it is far easier and safer to be a Jew than a Muslim, a black person or an east European asylum seeker.

The Guardian

The cause of death will be formally determined by inquest but, at the present time, we have no indication that the young person took their own life or that the circumstances were suspicious.

The Guardian

"But at the present time, I can't see the wisdom in the proposed plans". The AFC does have previous when it comes to standing up to the power of the Premier League.

The Guardian - Sport

Review of the literature shows that it has been relatively straightforward to cryopreserve living isolated chondrocytes, but at the present time there is no satisfactory method to preserve cartilage between the time of procurement or manufacture and surgical use.

Cryobiology

Whether this will remain stable for the lifetime of the patient still remains to be determined, but at the present time, there are no indications that the smooth muscle contractility will return.

Allergology International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

These complex dynamic systems subserve the amazing information processing capabilities of the cortex, but are at the present time very little understood.

Yale University

Rudiger confirmed that team officials had spoken with Cayard but that, at the present time, he would not be joining the crew.

The New York Times - Sports

Turks and Caicos Chief Minister Michael Misick reaffirmed in April that his Progressive National Party saw independence from Britain as the "ultimate goal" for the small multi-island territory, but not at the present time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

10 But though at the present time only the people of the island Cephallenia are called Cephallenians, Homer so calls all who were subject to Odysseus, among whom are also the Acarnanians.

University of Chicago

I am very sorry for them, but we cannot, at the present time and under the present stress, draw all the distinctions which we should like to do.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but at the present time", ensure a clear contrast between the current situation and a previous or expected state. This clarifies the intended meaning and enhances readability.

Common error

Avoid using "but at the present time" in very informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "but now" or "but currently" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but at the present time" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two contrasting ideas, indicating a shift or limitation concerning the current situation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

40%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but at the present time" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that connects contrasting ideas by highlighting the current situation. Ludwig confirms its versatile usage across varied contexts, including news, science, and academia. It’s crucial to be mindful of the register and opt for simpler substitutes in informal settings. Ensure clarity by clearly delineating the contrast when employing the phrase. Use it to make your writing precise and effective in formal environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, currently

Replaces the entire phrase with a more concise adverb.

yet, as things stand now

Introduces "yet" for contrast and uses a more descriptive expression for the present.

nonetheless, for now

Uses "nonetheless" to show contrast and "for now" to indicate the present situation.

even so, in the current climate

Employs "even so" for concession and "in the current climate" to refer to the present circumstances.

despite that, at this moment

Begins with "despite that" to highlight contrast and specifies "at this moment".

regardless, as it is today

Uses "regardless" for contrast and a more specific temporal reference.

all the same, under the current circumstances

Combines "all the same" for concession with a detailed description of the current situation.

be that as it may, in today's reality

Employs a more formal introductory phrase followed by a reference to "today's reality".

that being said, as things stand

Replaces the phrase with a more conversational expression.

having said that, right now

Uses another introductory phrase and ends with a casual "right now".

FAQs

How can I use "but at the present time" in a sentence?

Use "but at the present time" to contrast a current state with a past or future possibility. For example, "We are considering expanding our services, "but at the present time", we are focusing on improving our existing offerings."

What are some alternatives to "but at the present time"?

You can use alternatives like "however, currently", "yet, as things stand now", or "nonetheless, for now" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "but at the present time"?

While not strictly redundant, "but at the present time" can sometimes be replaced with a simpler word like "currently" or "now" without losing meaning. Consider the context to determine the best choice.

When is it best to use "but at the present time" over "currently"?

Use "but at the present time" when you want to emphasize a contrast or change in circumstances, whereas "currently" simply indicates the present situation without necessarily implying a contrast.