but best

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but best" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a preference or to highlight the best option among others in a comparison. Example: "I appreciate all your efforts, but best of all, I value your honesty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But best of all are the other students.

Science Magazine

But best check.

Independent

Possibly - but best not.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But best friend?

The New York Times

But best of all, there was money.

The New York Times

But best film of the year?

The Guardian

It's delicious, but best as dessert.

The New York Times - Food

But best of all would be prevention.

The New York Times

But best of all is our Bar.

The Guardian - Film

But best just to stay in your stateroom".

The New Yorker

But best of all were the bakeries: Tai Pan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but best", ensure that the contrast is clear and that the best option is distinctly highlighted. This phrase is effective for emphasizing a preference or superior choice.

Common error

Avoid using "but best" when a simpler conjunction like "and" or a more direct comparison would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound stilted. Consider alternatives like "most importantly" or "above all" for smoother transitions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but best" functions as a conjunction phrase, typically used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or emphasizes something previously mentioned. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but best" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's used to emphasize a preference or highlight the most favorable option, often contrasting with previous statements. While not overly formal, it appears most frequently in "News & Media" contexts and more rarely in academic or scientific writing. Alternatives like "most importantly" or "above all" can be used for similar emphasis. While effective, overuse should be avoided to maintain clarity and prevent the writing from sounding repetitive. Understanding these nuances will help writers use "but best" effectively in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however best

Emphasizes a contrast while indicating the most suitable option.

yet best

Similar to "however best", but with a slightly stronger sense of contrast.

although best

Introduces a concession before highlighting the preferred choice.

though best

A more informal alternative to "although best", conveying a similar meaning.

nonetheless best

Formally indicates that the best option remains despite a previous statement.

still best

Implies that despite certain drawbacks, one option is superior.

even so best

Indicates that the best option holds true, even considering a previous point.

in contrast best

Highlights the preferred choice by contrasting it with alternatives.

on the other hand best

Introduces the best option after considering a different perspective.

conversely best

Presents the best option as an opposite or contrasting point.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but best" in a sentence?

Use "but best" to emphasize a preference or to highlight the most favorable option in contrast to others. For example, "The team faced many challenges, but best of all, they learned to work together effectively."

What are some alternatives to using "but best"?

You can use alternatives such as "most importantly", "above all", or "best of all", depending on the context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

Is "but best" always appropriate, or are there situations where it should be avoided?

While "but best" is grammatically correct, it's important to use it judiciously. Avoid overuse, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider simpler conjunctions or more direct comparisons when appropriate.

How does "but best" differ from "but good" or "but better"?

"But best" implies that something is superior to all other options being considered. "But good" simply acknowledges that something is positive despite a contrasting point, while "but better" suggests improvement over something else but not necessarily the ultimate choice.