but exactly because

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but exactly because" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you want to emphasize a reason that is contrary to what might be expected. Example: "I didn't choose the easy path, but exactly because it was challenging, I felt it was worth pursuing."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But exactly because we fear to lose those things is why we're taking this chance to fight for it.

The Guardian

But exactly because the citrus-scented valley between Kfar Saba and Qalqilya was off limits to us, it was enticing to me one Saturday afternoon that fall.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Not exactly, because again, it's bursting with melodies and sounds dazzlingly carefree.

The Guardian - Music

He would not say where exactly, because, "Public awareness is a double-edged sword".

The New York Times

my mom left me so many clothes, not for me exactly, but just because she couldn't bear to get rid of them.

Huffington Post

"But it's exactly because I believe it is vital that we listen to and hear the voices of those members, candidates and defeated MPs from areas that are under-represented in parliament and where we must win again that I have decided to have a go".

The Guardian

But, it's exactly because we've reached the "power" cliché that I think it's time to deconstruct the idea in order to uncover back stories on the processes, the players, and the impact surrounding Art.

Huffington Post

But Zippy is funny exactly because he's random.

Huffington Post

The osmolality is supposedly higher than in an aqueous solution (about 285 mOsm kg−1 (McEvoy, 1991)) but cannot be measured exactly because of the presence of crystalline precipitates.

British Journal of Cancer

But is it not exactly because of this tendency that you point out that it is in the differences that we often find crucial clues?

Biology Direct

I don't believe it will come up a great deal, but we don't know exactly because it is still rising slowly," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "but exactly because" with more grammatically sound alternatives like "but specifically because" or "but precisely due to" for clearer communication.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex phrasing like "but exactly because" when simpler alternatives can convey the same meaning more effectively. Clarity enhances comprehension.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but exactly because" serves as a causal connector, linking a contrasting statement with a specific reason. It aims to emphasize that the reason is not just any reason, but a particularly accurate or unexpected one. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is non standard.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but exactly because" is used as a causal connector, linking a contrasting statement with a reason. However, as Ludwig AI suggests, its grammatical status is incorrect, making it unsuitable for formal writing. The frequency is rare. While it appears in some news and scientific sources, it's essential to use grammatically correct alternatives like "but specifically because" or "but precisely due to" for clearer communication. The goal is to avoid overcomplicating causal explanations and ensure that the meaning is conveyed accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but specifically because

Emphasizes a particular reason, adding precision.

but precisely due to

Uses 'precisely' to highlight the accuracy of the reason.

but particularly as

Focuses on a specific aspect that leads to the outcome.

however, especially since

Introduces a contrast followed by a specific reason.

yet, primarily because

Highlights a contrast with the main reason.

though mainly because

Suggests a contrast with a focus on the primary cause.

but largely on account of

Indicates the reason is a significant factor.

even so, principally as

Emphasizes that a principle underlies the reason.

nonetheless, largely due to

Despite something, the reason is a major contributing factor.

conversely, chiefly because

Highlights the main reason in a contrasting situation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "but exactly because" to improve clarity?

Consider alternatives like "but specifically because" or "but precisely because". These options offer similar meaning with better grammatical structure.

Is "but exactly because" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "but exactly because" is not considered standard English. It's often better to use a more precise construction like "but specifically because".

What is the difference between "but exactly because" and "but just because"?

"But exactly because" aims to highlight a precise or unexpected reason. "But just because" often implies the reason is arbitrary or insufficient. The nuance lies in the intent to emphasize precision versus questioning validity.

When is it appropriate to use "but exactly because" in writing?

While you might encounter "but exactly because" in informal contexts, it's best to avoid it in formal writing. Opt for clearer phrases such as "but precisely because" to avoid ambiguity.