but for certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but for certain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a specific condition or exception that applies to a situation. Example: "The project would have been a success, but for certain unforeseen circumstances that arose."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But for certain types of coverage, Mr. Barnicle was well-connected.

The New York Times

But for certain, the image in question was not originally intended this way.

The New Yorker

I'm entertaining offers not only for the pick but for certain of our players".

The New York Times - Sports

But for certain projects, he now thinks, it's the only choice.

The Guardian - Film

But for certain New Yorkers, these displays have stirred, as the professor said, complicated emotions.

The New York Times

"I don't know if everybody needs $100 underwear, but for certain occasions, it can be relevant," he said.

The New York Times

But for certain simple, especially local, issues – should a new road be built?, should a tower block be demolished?

The Guardian - Opinion

We show that the parameters in the model are at least locally identified, but for certain configurations of the data, they are only weakly identified.

Journal of Choice Modelling

The variation of PAHs was similar to NO2, but for certain PAHs the difference between highly and less polluted sites was larger than for NO2.

Science of The Total Environment

BILFINGER: I have no general information about the composition of the personnel; but for certain offices about which I knew more these figures would probably apply.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They fell it is too expensive but they go on paying it, but only for certain shows.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but for certain" to introduce specific exceptions or conditions that apply to a general statement. This helps to clarify the scope and limitations of your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "but for certain" as a blanket disclaimer. Be precise about what those "certain" conditions or exceptions actually are, otherwise your statement loses credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but for certain" functions as a qualifier or a conditional element within a sentence. It introduces an exception or condition that affects the validity or outcome of the main statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

34%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but for certain" is a versatile phrase used to introduce specific exceptions or conditions that limit a broader statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its frequent appearance in contexts such as "News & Media", "Science", and "Academia" indicates its appropriateness across diverse registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the 'certain' conditions are clearly defined to maintain clarity and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "except for some" or "with some exceptions" can be used to achieve a similar effect. Remember, precision and clarity are key when incorporating this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

except for some

Replaces 'certain' with 'some', indicating a general exception.

except for specific

Replaces 'certain' with 'specific', emphasizing a more defined exception.

however, in some cases

Introduces a contrasting point limited to specific instances.

with some exceptions

Highlights that the statement is not universally applicable.

save for some

Indicates that something is excluded or not included, similar to 'except'.

apart from particular

Signals exclusion of distinct items or situations.

aside from select

Similar to 'except for', but suggests a careful choice of exclusion.

excluding particular

Explicitly states that certain items are not included.

with the exception of

Formal way to indicate an exclusion from a general statement.

but only for particular

Emphasizes the exclusivity and specificity of the exception.

FAQs

How can I use "but for certain" in a sentence?

Use "but for certain" to introduce a specific condition or exception. For example, "The project would have been a success, "but for certain" unforeseen circumstances that arose."

What phrases are similar to "but for certain"?

Alternatives include "except for some", "except for specific", or "with some exceptions" depending on the context.

Is it necessary to always specify what the 'certain' conditions are when using "but for certain"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the 'certain' conditions improves clarity. If the context makes the conditions obvious, it may be omitted; however, ambiguity should be avoided.

How does "but for certain" differ from "however"?

"However" introduces a general contrast, while "but for certain" introduces a specific exception. "The plan was well-received; however, it was expensive" versus "The plan was approved, "but for certain" budgetary constraints."