but cops

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but cops" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It can be used in informal discussions or narratives where you are contrasting or introducing a different perspective related to law enforcement. Example: "Everyone was having a good time at the party, but cops showed up to break it up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

"But cops work a certain way.

The New York Times - Arts

But cops were photographed posing beside the suspected killer after his capture.

Independent

Bland may have been discourteous, but cops, after all, are supposed to be trained professionals.

Independent

Many scholars have questioned the reliability of such tests, but cops regularly use them.

The New Yorker

It is nice to have some help, but cops do count.

The Economist

But cops in places like Ferguson don't see my white parents – that I learned early on.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

"There's nothing but cop shows on TV.

The New York Times

She escaped conviction but copped a one-month good behaviour bond.

The Guardian - Film

But COP-17 (the seventeenth conference of the parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) will concentrate minds.

The Guardian

As the composition of R744 in the refrigerant mixture increases, cooling capacity is enhanced, but COP tends to decrease while the system pressure rises.

International Journal of Refrigeration

Always follow the law when dealing with the judicial system, but cop a serious attitude at the same time.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but cops" in informal contexts when you want to create a contrast or introduce a different perspective regarding law enforcement actions or situations.

Common error

Avoid using "but cops" in formal writing or professional reports. Opt for more formal alternatives like "however police officers" or "nevertheless law enforcement" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but cops" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas or statements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. It typically introduces a counterpoint related to law enforcement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but cops" is a grammatically correct conjunction phrase primarily used in informal contexts, especially within news and media. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it effectively introduces a contrasting viewpoint, often regarding law enforcement. While common in certain registers, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "however police" in professional or academic settings. The phrase's high frequency in news sources underscores its role in reporting contrasting aspects of events involving police officers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however police

Replaces "cops" with the more formal "police", maintaining the contrasting function.

yet officers

Substitutes both the conjunction and the noun with synonyms, providing a slightly more formal tone.

although law enforcement

Offers a more formal alternative, replacing "cops" with "law enforcement" and "but" with "although".

despite the police

Emphasizes contrast, focusing on the police while using a different prepositional structure.

nonetheless the authorities

Provides a stronger contrast with a more formal tone by using "nonetheless" and "the authorities".

conversely officers

Introduces a direct opposite viewpoint using a more formal tone.

on the other hand police

Presents a contrasting viewpoint in a clear and straightforward manner.

in contrast police officers

Highlights a stark difference, employing a slightly more elaborate structure.

even so the police

Indicates that despite something previously mentioned, the police are still relevant or have a different perspective.

that being said law enforcement

Introduces a contrasting point after acknowledging a previous statement, using a more conversational tone while maintaining formality.

FAQs

How can I use "but cops" in a sentence?

The phrase "but cops" is typically used to introduce a contrasting point or unexpected action related to law enforcement. For example, "The community supported the initiative, but cops remained skeptical."

What can I say instead of "but cops"?

You can use alternatives like "however police", "yet officers", or "although law enforcement" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "but cops" in academic writing?

No, "but cops" is generally not appropriate for academic writing. More formal alternatives such as "however law enforcement" or "nevertheless officers" are more suitable.

What's the difference between "but cops" and "but police"?

"But cops" is more informal and colloquial, while "but police" is slightly more formal. The choice depends on the context and your audience. Use "but police" in more professional or formal settings.