but at the same time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but at the same time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that two opposing facts or ideas can both be true or relevant. For example: "I wanted to go to the beach, but at the same time I had a lot of work to do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But at the same time, Belle understood.

The New York Times

Timeless but at the same time, creative".

The New York Times

But, at the same time, strength.

The New Yorker

"But at the same time very magical".

The New York Times

In, but at the same time out.

The New York Times

"But at the same time, I do.

The New York Times

"But at the same time, that's reality.

The New York Times

But, at the same time, it's true.

The New Yorker

But at the same time kindly.

The Guardian

But at the same time, it wasn't.

The Guardian - Music

But at the same time – so what?

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but at the same time" to introduce a contrasting or balancing point immediately after stating an initial idea. This helps create nuanced arguments and show a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Common error

Avoid using "but at the same time" repeatedly in close proximity. This can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Opt for varied transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but at the same time" functions as a conjunction or transitional phrase. It serves to introduce a contrasting or qualifying element to a preceding statement, indicating that both elements are valid or relevant concurrently. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but at the same time" is a versatile and grammatically sound conjunction phrase used to introduce contrasting or qualifying elements that exist concurrently. As Ludwig AI confirms, its purpose is to present nuance and complexity, acknowledging opposing perspectives for a more balanced view. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and while it maintains a neutral register it is applicable across a variety of writing contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you balance it appropriately and don't overuse it. Consider alternatives like "yet simultaneously" or "however concurrently" for variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in contrast simultaneously

Clearly presents a contrast while emphasizing concurrent action.

on the other hand simultaneously

Indicates an alternative perspective while highlighting co-occurrence.

yet simultaneously

Emphasizes the co-occurrence of two contrasting actions or states.

however concurrently

Highlights the parallel nature of two events despite potential contrast.

at once nevertheless

Highlights that two actions or states can exist at the same time even though there is a reason for this not to be the case.

nonetheless in parallel

Indicates that two actions or states happen together despite an apparent contradiction.

despite that happening at once

Implies that two events occur together, even if unexpected.

even so in unison

Suggests that two elements are aligned despite potential discrepancies.

conversely during the same period

Indicates a contrast within a shared timeframe.

while at it

Shorter, more informal way of expressing doing something concurrently with something else. Also suggests that it's quick and easy.

FAQs

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

Use "but at the same time" to introduce a contrasting or balancing idea that exists simultaneously with the first. For example, "The project was challenging, "but at the same time", it was incredibly rewarding."

What are some alternatives to using "but at the same time"?

You can use alternatives such as "yet simultaneously", "however concurrently", or "on the other hand simultaneously" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but at the same time"?

Starting a sentence with "but" is acceptable in modern English. Using ""but at the same time"" to start a sentence is also grammatically sound, although it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse.

What's the difference between "but at the same time" and simply using "but"?

"But" introduces a contrast. "But at the same time" introduces a contrast that exists simultaneously. It emphasizes that both ideas are relevant or true concurrently.