but crucially

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but crucially" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize an important point or detail that is essential to the context being discussed. Example: "The project was successful, but crucially, it was completed ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, crucially, Degas shatters Tiepolo's illusionism.

The New York Times - Arts

But, crucially, not for long.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But crucially there is humour.

The Guardian - Books

But, crucially, they stay alive.

The Guardian

But, crucially, there's nothing tame about Stories.

The Guardian - Music

But crucially it will involve something more.

The Guardian - Opinion

But, crucially, nothing died to make them.

The Guardian - Opinion

But crucially, these clinics have commoditized hope.

The Guardian

But, crucially, commerce is not all.

The Guardian - Arts

But, crucially, they could be educated better.

The Guardian

Such misunderstandings are frustrating, but crucially tighten the tension.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but crucially", ensure the clause that follows genuinely represents a turning point or essential element. Avoid using it for points that are merely supplementary.

Common error

Avoid using "but crucially" when the point being introduced isn't actually essential. Overusing it diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but crucially" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking two contrasting ideas while emphasizing the critical importance of the second. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

15%

Arts

8%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but crucially" is a versatile conjunction phrase used to introduce a critical element, especially in contrasting situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its frequency indicates common usage across varied contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. When using "but crucially", ensure that the point it introduces is genuinely pivotal to avoid diluting its impact. While there are several alternatives, such as "but importantly" or "yet fundamentally", the choice depends on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember, effective use of "but crucially" enhances clarity and emphasis in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet fundamentally

Emphasizes a basic or essential aspect, similar to "but crucially" but stressing foundational importance.

however, essentially

Highlights a key element, replacing "crucially" with "essentially" while maintaining the contrast introduced by "however".

more importantly though

Indicates a shift to a more significant point, similar to "but crucially" with added emphasis on importance.

but vitally

Stresses the importance of the point, replacing "crucially" with "vitally" to underscore its significance.

yet significantly

Highlights the notable aspect, similar to "but crucially" while stressing the impact.

nevertheless, the key point

Focuses on the most important aspect following a contrasting statement; replaces "crucially" with "the key point".

on the other hand, the critical thing

Introduces a critical aspect in contrast to a previous point, similar to "but crucially" with more explicit emphasis.

that being said, most importantly

Shifts focus to the most significant point, akin to "but crucially" but with stronger emphasis on importance.

however, what matters most

Emphasizes the most significant consideration, replacing "crucially" with "what matters most" to highlight importance.

yet, above all

Highlights the most important aspect, similar to "but crucially" but adds a sense of prioritization.

FAQs

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

Use "but crucially" to introduce a pivotal point or detail that is essential to understanding the overall context. For example, "The strategy showed promise, "but crucially", it needed more funding." This emphasizes that funding was the key factor for success.

What are some alternatives to using "but crucially"?

You can use alternatives such as "but importantly", "yet fundamentally", or "however essentially" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "but" before "crucially"?

While "crucially" can sometimes be used alone, using "but crucially" often provides a stronger contrast and signals a shift in focus or understanding. The "but" helps to set up the importance of the following point, making it more impactful.

What's the difference between "but crucially" and "but importantly"?

While similar, "but crucially" suggests that the following point is absolutely essential or pivotal. "But importantly" indicates significance, but not necessarily to the same degree as "but crucially". The choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.