but damn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but damn" can be technically used in written English, but it is generally considered inappropriate and should be avoided in most contexts. In informal writing, it could be used to express a feeling of frustration or regret in a light-hearted way. For example: "I thought I'd be done working on this project by now, but damn, it's taking so much longer than expected."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But damn it, he was plain wrong.

Independent

But damn it, that Star Wars trailer mainlines 'feels'feels

Independent

"I was cocky, but damn, I was good," he said.

Independent

Felicity may be strange, but damn, she can cook.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But damn the Daily burned hot while it lasted.

The New Yorker

I was certainly surprised, but damn interested!

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Her responses were controlled but damning.

The Guardian

Other details are impossible to confirm but damning if true.

The New Yorker

"But damned if you know how you got there".

The Guardian

I would have introduced you, but damned if I can remember her name".

The New Yorker

But damned if they didn't get to it.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but damn", ensure the context provides a clear contrast or unexpected element to justify the expression. This will enhance its effectiveness and prevent it from sounding gratuitous.

Common error

Avoid using "but damn" in formal or professional writing. Its informal nature can undermine your credibility and detract from the seriousness of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but damn" functions primarily as a conjunction followed by an interjection. It connects two contrasting ideas while adding emphasis and emotional expression to the latter part. Ludwig examples show it used to express surprise, frustration, or grudging admiration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but damn" is a phrase used to express a contrast with an added emphasis of surprise, frustration, or reluctant admiration. While grammatically acceptable in informal contexts, Ludwig AI confirms that it is inappropriate for formal writing due to its informal nature. The phrase is common in news and media, as well as in informal conversations. When using "but damn", consider the context and audience to ensure its appropriateness and effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, damn

Switches the conjunction but maintains the exclamatory interjection.

yet, damn

Emphasizes contrast with a similar emotional tone.

but jeez

Replaces the stronger "damn" with a milder interjection, suitable for less intense expression.

although, damn

Replaces "but" with "although", providing a slightly more formal tone while retaining the interjection.

but wow

Expresses surprise or admiration rather than frustration.

but heck

Uses a milder exclamatory term to reduce the intensity of the phrase.

still, damn

Highlights persistence or continuation, coupled with the exclamatory interjection.

but goodness

Substitutes "damn" with a more polite expression of surprise or frustration.

even so, damn

Indicates concession with emphasis via the interjection.

nonetheless, damn

Offers a more formal alternative while keeping the emotional emphasis.

FAQs

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

Use "but damn" to express a strong feeling of surprise, frustration, or admiration following a contrasting statement. For instance, "The task was difficult, "but damn", we finished it!"

What are some alternatives to "but damn"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "however, damn", "but wow", or a milder expression like "but goodness".

Is "but damn" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "but damn" is generally considered too informal for academic or professional writing. Opt for more formal conjunctions and adverbs to maintain a professional tone.

What feeling does "but damn" typically convey?

"But damn" usually conveys a mix of surprise and frustration, or sometimes reluctant admiration, often in response to an unexpected or challenging situation. It's stronger than a simple "but" and adds emotional emphasis.