but don't

USAGE SUMMARY

"but don't" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is used in the form of a conjunction to indicate a contrast or exception to something previously mentioned. It can be used in various situations, including expressing a contradiction, presenting a different perspective, or giving a warning or caution. Example: "I know you want to help, but don't overextend yourself. Your health should always come first."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But don't.

The New York Times - Food

But don't stop there.

Cornell University

But don't be fooled.

University of California, Berkeley

But don't do that!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But don't overdo it.

Harvard University

Yes but don't worry.

Yale University

But don't get discouraged.

Harvard University

But don't panic.

Harvard University

But don't despair!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But don't be downhearted.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But don't worry.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but don't" to offer a contrasting viewpoint or caution after making a statement or suggestion. It's effective for providing balance and preventing misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "but don't" repeatedly within a short paragraph. This can make your writing sound repetitive and less persuasive. Vary your sentence structure and use synonyms to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but don't" functions as a conjunction to introduce a contrasting or cautionary element. As Ludwig AI indicates, it connects two ideas, presenting the second as an exception or a limitation to the first. Many examples show its use in advising against a certain action after a suggestion or observation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

33%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but don't" serves as a conjunction to introduce a contrast or exception. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a grammatically sound phrase, which is used to offer cautions, corrections, or alternative perspectives. The phrase is very common across varied contexts, appearing frequently in News & Media, Academia and Wiki articles, where it helps to provide balance and prevent misinterpretations. While the register is typically neutral to informal, it's wise to avoid overusing it in close proximity to maintain clarity and engagement. Remember that alternatives such as "however, do not", "yet, refrain from", or "nevertheless, avoid" can be used based on the context and level of formality needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, do not

More formal alternative, replacing the contraction with "do not".

in contrast, don't

Directly indicates a contrasting action.

still, do not

Similar to "however, do not", but slightly less formal.

on the other hand, don't

Presents an alternative perspective with a contrasting action.

despite that, don't

Highlights that the action should be avoided regardless of what was previously stated.

even so, don't

Emphasizes a contrast despite a preceding statement.

yet, refrain from

Replaces "but" with "yet" and "don't" with "refrain from", resulting in a more formal and cautious tone.

conversely, do not

A formal way to introduce a contrasting viewpoint or action.

instead, do not

Recommends an alternative action of avoidance.

nevertheless, avoid

Offers a stronger sense of contrast and advises avoiding the action.

FAQs

How can I use "but don't" in a sentence?

The phrase "but don't" is used to introduce a contrasting idea or a cautionary statement. For example, "I understand your frustration, but don't let it cloud your judgment."

What are some alternatives to "but don't"?

You can use phrases like "however, do not", "yet, refrain from", or "nevertheless, avoid" as alternatives to "but don't", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey. For example, "I appreciate the offer; "however do not" expect immediate results".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but don't"?

While it's generally acceptable to start a sentence with "but", doing so with "but don't" is less common and can sound informal. Consider rephrasing for a more polished tone, or using alternatives. For example "Avoid this, however" is more formal than "But don't do that".

What's the difference between "but don't" and "and don't"?

"But don't" introduces a contrast, while "and don't" adds a related negative action. "But don't" sets up an exception, while "and don't" continues a list of things to avoid. For example, "Try to relax, "but don't" fall asleep", contrasts the relaxation and the falling asleep, whilst in "Take a break, "and don't" forget to hydrate", continues a list of advice about the break.