but exactly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but exactly" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the exactness of something, or to emphasize hesitance or doubt in a statement. For example: "I thought I remembered correctly, but exactly what did she say?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But exactly.

The New York Times

But exactly why was unclear.

The New York Times

But exactly how many people?

The Economist

But exactly which ambitions?

The New York Times

But exactly where is the circularity?

The New York Times

But exactly how level is "level"?

The Economist

But exactly what does this sentence mean?

The Economist

But exactly what and who are they?

The Economist

But exactly the right thing?

The New Yorker

But exactly the opposite is going on.

The Guardian

But exactly where, was another question.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but exactly" to introduce a question that requires a precise or detailed answer, especially when challenging a preceding statement or assumption. This can enhance clarity and focus the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "but exactly" in every instance where clarification is needed. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Consider alternative phrases to vary your language and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but exactly" functions as a conjunctive adverb or interrogative phrase, typically used to introduce a question that seeks clarification or challenges a preceding statement. Ludwig provides many examples that demonstrate this use in context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but exactly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves primarily to elicit clarification or challenge a prior statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and demonstrates its use across various contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media", it maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using "but exactly", aim to pinpoint specific areas needing further explanation, while also considering alternative phrasing to maintain writing dynamism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

But what specifically

Similar to "but exactly", it directs the focus to particular details that need clarification.

But where precisely

Requests a more accurate location or point, seeking to eliminate ambiguity.

But when specifically

Seeks clarification on the timing or date of an event, aiming for greater accuracy.

But more specifically

Emphasizes the need for a more detailed or precise explanation than what has already been provided.

But how precisely

Asks for a more exact method or manner in which something occurs.

But in what detail

Focuses on the level of detail required for a proper understanding.

But to what extent

Questions the degree or scope of something, seeking a more quantified understanding.

But by what measure

Challenges the metric or standard used for evaluation, seeking a more defined criterion.

But under what conditions

Seeks to understand the specific circumstances or requirements necessary for something to happen.

But on what grounds

Inquires about the justification or basis for a claim or action.

FAQs

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

Use "but exactly" to introduce a question that seeks clarification or a more precise understanding of a previous statement. For example, "The plan sounds good, but exactly how will we implement it?"

What phrases are similar to "but exactly"?

Similar phrases include "but more specifically", "but what specifically", or "but how precisely". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "but exactly"?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "but exactly" can make your writing sound repetitive. Try to vary your phrasing by using alternatives where appropriate.

What is the function of "but exactly" in a sentence?

The phrase "but exactly" serves as a conjunction to introduce a question that challenges a preceding statement and seeks greater clarity or detail.