but does

USAGE SUMMARY

"but does" is a perfectly acceptable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used as a conjunction to connect two ideas and denote a contrast between them. For example: "John likes to read novels, but does not enjoy poetry as much."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But does it?

The New York Times

But does it work?

The New York Times - Books

But does that matter?

The Economist

But does it apply?

The Economist

But does anybody care?

The New York Times

But does Mr Serra?

The Economist

But does size matter?

The New York Times

But does it do more?

Independent

But does sex initiate labour?

Independent

But does this improve security?

The New York Times

But does it ring true?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but does" in formal writing, ensure the question or statement that follows is clearly and directly related to the previous point.

Common error

Avoid using "but does" to introduce a completely unrelated idea. Ensure that the question or statement is a direct counterpoint or challenge to the preceding statement to maintain coherence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but does" functions as a conjunction introducing a question or statement that contrasts with a preceding idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it connects two ideas, often challenging the initial assertion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but does" is a common phrase used to introduce a contrasting question or statement, often challenging a prior assertion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to connect two ideas while introducing doubt or exploring alternative perspectives. Predominantly found in News & Media, its tone ranges from neutral to informal, making it suitable for diverse contexts. When using "but does", ensure a clear and logical connection to the preceding statement to effectively question assumptions or prompt further consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet does it

Emphasizes contrast while questioning if something happens.

however, does it

Introduces a contrasting element and a question.

though does it

Expresses contrast with a slight emphasis on doubt.

still does it

Indicates continuation despite an obstacle.

then does it

Questions if something occurs as a result.

nevertheless does it

Expresses contrast with a sense of formality.

nonetheless does it

Similar to 'nevertheless' but slightly less formal.

in spite of that, does it

Highlights a contradiction despite a preceding statement.

even so, does it

Indicates concession followed by a questioning statement.

despite this, does it

Introduces a contradictory idea.

FAQs

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

"But does" is typically used to introduce a contrasting question or statement that challenges a previous assertion. For example, "The plan seems feasible, but does it account for unexpected costs?"

What alternatives can I use instead of "but does"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "however does it", "yet does it", or "still does it" to introduce a contrasting question.

Is there a difference between "but does" and "however does"?

While both introduce a contrasting question, "but does" is generally more informal. "However does" might be preferred in formal writing for its slightly more sophisticated tone.

When is it appropriate to use "but does" in writing?

It is appropriate when you want to immediately follow a statement with a question that challenges or contrasts with the statement. Ensure the connection between the statement and the question is clear and logical.