but even this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but even this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or to emphasize that something unexpected or surprising is still true despite previous statements. Example: "The project faced numerous challenges, but even this did not deter the team's enthusiasm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But even this is misleading.

Independent

But even this isn't working.

The New York Times

But even this is problematic.

The New York Times

But even this is cautious.

The Economist

But even this may fail.

The Economist

But even this is not all.

Independent

But even this unprecedented disaster brings opportunity.

The New York Times

But even this change carries extra weight.

The New York Times - Sports

But even this hasn't proved unassailable.

The New Yorker

But even this description can be misleading.

The New York Times

But even this evidence is weak.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but even this" to introduce a surprising or unexpected twist following a series of events or arguments. It effectively signals that the subsequent information is noteworthy despite what precedes it.

Common error

Avoid using "but even this" when a simple "but" or "however" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly dramatic or convoluted. Opt for simpler conjunctions when the contrast is straightforward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but even this" serves as a conjunctive adverb, linking two contrasting ideas while emphasizing the surprising or unexpected nature of the second idea. It adds a layer of complexity to the contrast, suggesting that the subsequent point holds weight despite previous considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but even this" functions as a conjunctive adverb, used to introduce a contrasting or surprising element. Ludwig AI validates that it's grammatically correct and the examples from authoritative sources demonstrate its widespread use across varied contexts, most notably in news and academic writing. While versatile, it's best used when emphasizing an unexpected contrast, and should be avoided in simple contrasts where "but" or "however" suffice. Understanding its nuance can significantly enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even so

A simpler alternative to indicate contrast or continuation.

yet even then

Replaces "this" with "then", shifting the focus to a specific time rather than a situation.

in spite of this

Highlights the contrast between the preceding statement and the current one.

despite all that

Emphasizes the contrast with everything that has been mentioned before.

nevertheless

A more formal synonym indicating contrast or concession.

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless" but slightly less formal.

however

A direct and common way to introduce a contrasting statement.

that being said

A transitional phrase used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement.

with all that said

Acknowledges the previous information before introducing a contrasting point.

still

Indicates that something is true despite what has been said before.

FAQs

How can I use "but even this" in a sentence?

The phrase "but even this" introduces a contrast, often emphasizing a surprising element. For example, "The project faced numerous setbacks, "but even this" didn't deter the team's determination".

What are some alternatives to "but even this"?

Alternatives include "even so", "nevertheless", or "despite all that", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but even this"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but even this". "But" is a coordinating conjunction and can begin a sentence. The phrase introduces a contrasting element or qualification.

What's the difference between "but even this" and "however"?

"However" is a general contrasting conjunction. "But even this" is more emphatic, suggesting that the following statement is surprising or unexpected given the preceding context. "But even this" places greater emphasis on the unexpected nature of the contrast than "however".