but either

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'but either' is a grammatically correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is usually used to mean "at least one of two" or "one or the other". For example, "I don't know which book I should read, but either would be a great choice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But either way, they needed help.

The New York Times - Sports

But either way, humans lose.

MIT Technology Review

But either way, be sensitive.

The Guardian

But either way we're going.

The New York Times

But either way, it's lovely to watch.

The New York Times

But either way, it's a wild ride.

The New York Times - Books

(She may mean "exhausting," but either works).

The New York Times - Books

"I said embarrassed, but either will work.

The Guardian - Music

But either way, it is all good.

The New York Times

But, either way, there will be downsizing.

The Guardian - Opinion

But either way, you will laugh.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but either" to clearly present two possible scenarios or choices, ensuring that the subsequent statement applies to both.

Common error

Avoid using "but either" when the clauses being connected do not share a logical relationship or when the outcome isn't relevant to both scenarios. Ensure that the second part of the sentence makes sense regardless of which option from the first part is true.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but either" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking two alternatives or conditions to a shared consequence or outcome. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase introduces a clause that remains valid regardless of which preceding option is chosen.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but either" is a versatile conjunctive phrase used to connect alternative scenarios to a shared outcome or consequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news articles to everyday conversation. Common usage involves presenting two options, followed by a statement introduced by "but either" that holds true regardless of which option is chosen. Understanding its function helps ensure clarity and precision in writing and speech. Ludwig's examples highlight its prevalence in reliable sources, solidifying its place as a valuable tool in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, either way

Explicitly highlights that the outcome remains consistent across different possibilities.

but in either case

Adds emphasis to the consideration of both options or scenarios.

but by either means

Specifies that the outcome is reached through one of two possible methods.

but regardless

Focuses on proceeding despite the initial conditions or choices.

yet in any event

Introduces a sense of inevitability or a necessary action regardless of circumstances.

nevertheless, one way or another

Emphasizes the certainty of an event occurring, irrespective of the specific path.

despite that, in both scenarios

Acknowledges a contrast but emphasizes that the result will be the same.

yet whichever happens

Highlights uncertainty while maintaining focus on the subsequent action.

yet come what may

Suggests a resolute attitude towards an uncertain future or challenge.

still, come hell or high water

Implies a determination to succeed irrespective of significant obstacles.

FAQs

How do I use "but either" in a sentence?

Use "but either" to introduce a statement that holds true regardless of which of the two preceding alternatives is the case. For example, "You can drive or take the train, but either way, you'll need a ticket".

What phrases are similar to "but either"?

Phrases like "however, either way", "but in either case", or "but regardless" can be used in place of "but either" to convey a similar meaning of presenting alternatives with a shared consequence.

Is "but either" formal or informal?

"But either" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile phrase for various writing and speaking scenarios. The examples Ludwig provides demonstrate this.

How does "but either" differ from "either...or"?

"Either...or" presents mutually exclusive choices, while "but either" introduces a consequence or result that applies to both of the previously mentioned options. The first presents choices, while the second discusses the outcome.