but certainly for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but certainly for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a point or to clarify a condition or reason in a discussion or argument. Example: "I understand your concerns, but certainly for the sake of clarity, we need to address the main issues first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Saturday might be difficult but certainly for Tuesday I have high hopes for him".

The Guardian - Sport

Well, for better or worse, but certainly for richer not poorer, he's had a great life".

The Guardian - Music

Not always for one another, of course — hence the confusion — but certainly for all but the grouchiest moviegoer.

The New York Times

But, certainly for the time being, it is a very interesting "outside the box" move by Hamas.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the payoff will be substantial, not only for consumers but certainly for the economy over all".

The New York Times

These effects hugely increase the risk that one firm may dominate a particular market, probably not for ever but certainly for a significant time.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Not competing with me for content, but certainly competing for advertising money.

The Guardian

"It's not ideal for anyone but certainly not for us.

The Guardian - Sport

This structure of conflicting interests resembles the plausible motivation structure for some, but certainly not for all, health behaviors.

Health Psychology

The metals are impregnated throughout the catalyst particle, which is maybe (in part) correct for V, but certainly not for Ni.

Chemical Society Reviews

Perhaps social justice for the child, but certainly not for the family.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but certainly for", make sure that the phrase is followed by a clear and specific reason or condition to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "but certainly for" in simple sentences where a direct contrast is more effective. Overuse can make your writing sound convoluted. Consider using alternatives like "however" or "yet" for simpler constructions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but certainly for" acts as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses, introducing a contrast while emphasizing the certainty of the subsequent statement. Ludwig shows examples where it clarifies conditions or highlights exceptions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Sports

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but certainly for" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrasting yet certain element, often specifying a condition or exception. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media, science, and sports contexts. To improve your writing, avoid overuse in simple sentences and ensure it introduces a clear reason or condition. Consider alternatives like "however" or "yet" for simpler constructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet definitely for

Replaces "but certainly" with "yet definitely", maintaining the contrast and strengthening the affirmation.

however surely for

Substitutes "but certainly" with "however surely", introducing a contrast with a confident affirmation.

although indeed for

Replaces "but certainly" with "although indeed", contrasting the initial point with a genuine affirmation.

nonetheless absolutely for

Changes "but certainly" to "nonetheless absolutely", conveying a stronger sense of certainty despite a previous contrast.

still undoubtedly for

Replaces "but certainly" with "still undoubtedly", indicating continuation with a clear and strong confirmation.

even so positively for

Substitutes "but certainly" with "even so positively", implying acceptance with an affirmative confirmation.

notwithstanding assuredly for

Replaces "but certainly" with "notwithstanding assuredly", expressing that something is sure despite some impediment.

despite this definitely for

Changes "but certainly" to "despite this definitely", highlighting a contradiction with a firm confirmation.

in spite of this surely for

Replaces "but certainly" with "in spite of this surely", pointing out something is certain despite an obstacle.

regardless certainly for

Substitutes "but certainly" with "regardless certainly", indicating something happens no matter what.

FAQs

How can I use "but certainly for" in a sentence?

The phrase "but certainly for" is used to introduce a condition or exception that contrasts with a previous statement. For example, "The task was difficult, but certainly for experienced professionals, it was manageable."

What are some alternatives to "but certainly for"?

Alternatives include "however", "yet", "nonetheless", or "despite this". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "but certainly for" considered formal or informal?

The phrase "but certainly for" is generally considered neutral to formal and can be used in a variety of contexts, including professional and academic writing. Consider the tone of your writing, as simpler alternatives might be better in informal settings.

What's the difference between "but certainly for" and "but definitely for"?

While both phrases express a contrast, "but certainly for" implies a higher degree of assurance or specificity than "but definitely for". "But certainly for" is often used to introduce a specific exception or condition, while "but definitely for" emphasizes a strong confirmation.