but conceivably

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but conceivably" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a possibility or hypothetical situation that may not be certain but is worth considering. Example: "The project may face several challenges, but conceivably, we could still meet the deadline if we work efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Mr. Riera's fate is uncertain, but conceivably dire.

The New York Times

But conceivably, in some cases, they may "outshine" any other light generated by the radionuclide.

Cornell University

But conceivably 1977 was the aberration and New Yorkers have been mostly civilised for quite a while.

The Economist

But conceivably you might be interested in deciding for yourself if you can track down tapes of that awesome fortnight.

The Guardian

This "motive split" does not seem to be causing a problem now, but conceivably that could change in the future.

The Guardian

In later life, Degas was not just France's greatest living painter but conceivably its greatest art collector too.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

But that, conceivably, is also an opportunity.

The New Yorker

The army cannot deliver that but — just conceivably — can still be its incubator.

The New York Times

Had he not existed, someone else would have served the need, but not conceivably as well.

The New Yorker

Thinking about it may cause us to grieve; but not, conceivably, to feel glad about our grief.

The New York Times - Books

Some, such as fusion power — harnessing the process that powers the sun itself — require significant technological breakthroughs, but could conceivably pay dividends in the very long term.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but conceivably" to introduce a possibility that contrasts with a previous statement. It is suitable when you want to present an alternative that is not certain but worthy of consideration.

Common error

While "but conceivably" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal contexts. Excessive reliance can make writing seem hesitant or lacking confidence. Instead, use stronger, more direct language when the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but conceivably" functions as a conjunction phrase, linking two contrasting ideas while introducing an element of possibility or speculation. As Ludwig AI explains, it introduces a hypothetical scenario. The examples show its role in softening assertions and opening up alternative considerations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but conceivably" serves as a conjunction phrase used to introduce a possibility or an alternative, often contrasting with a previous statement. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. It appears commonly in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts, indicating its versatility across various registers. While grammatically sound and frequently used, overuse in formal writing should be avoided. Semantically related alternatives include "but possibly" and "but perhaps". Understanding its function and appropriate contexts ensures effective and nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but possibly

Focuses on the potential for something to occur without strong conviction.

but perhaps

Suggests a degree of uncertainty or mild possibility.

however possibly

Emphasizes a contrast while still allowing for a chance.

yet potentially

Highlights a contrasting scenario with underlying potential.

though conceivably

Introduces a subordinate clause that presents a possible, though perhaps unlikely, scenario.

although possibly

Similar to "though conceivably", this emphasizes a contrast while acknowledging a potential outcome.

but imaginably

Stresses that something can be conceived or imagined, though it might not be probable.

nonetheless potentially

Implies that despite existing factors, a potential outcome is still valid.

even so potentially

Acknowledges a previous statement but introduces a possible alternative.

then again, possibly

Introduces another possibility to consider.

FAQs

How to use "but conceivably" in a sentence?

Use "but conceivably" to introduce a possibility or a situation that is not certain, acting as a bridge between a statement and a potential outcome. For example, "The project faces challenges, but conceivably, we can succeed with extra effort."

What can I say instead of "but conceivably"?

You can use alternatives like "but possibly", "but perhaps", or "however possibly" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "but conceivably" or "but possibly"?

Both "but conceivably" and "but possibly" are grammatically correct, but "but conceivably" suggests a higher degree of imagination or hypothetical thinking, while "but possibly" simply indicates something might happen.

What is the tone of "but conceivably"?

The phrase "but conceivably" has a tone of mild uncertainty or possibility, suggesting that something is not definite but is within the realm of imagination or potential outcomes. It adds a layer of speculation to a statement.