but for different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but for different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a contrast or distinction between two or more things that are otherwise similar. Example: "The two projects were similar in scope, but for different objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was stunned too but for different reasons.

Huffington Post

But for different reasons.

The Guardian - Opinion

(That was wrong, but for different reasons).

The New York Times - Arts

Some stood out, but for different reasons.

The New York Times - Sports

But for different reasons entirely.

The Guardian - Opinion

Everyone likes this, but for different reasons.

The Guardian

(Both agencies inspect structures but for different rules).

The New York Times

Either answer is upsetting, but for different reasons.

The New Yorker

I endorse Councilman Vallone's protest, but for different reasons.

The New Yorker

Many love "Blue Moon," but for different reasons.

The New York Times

It turned out that they were, but for different reasons.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but for different" to succinctly highlight that while situations or elements might seem similar, the underlying reasons or causes are distinct. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but for different" when a simpler contrast would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the difference lies specifically in the reasons or motivations, rather than a general dissimilarity. If the element of 'reasons' is not strong, then prefer the term 'however'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but for different" serves as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas or situations. It indicates that while there might be a similarity or shared aspect, the underlying reasons differ. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but for different" is a grammatically correct and versatile conjunction phrase used to indicate contrasting reasons behind similar situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted across various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and scientific discourse. To ensure clarity, reserve it for cases where the difference specifically lies in the reasons, avoiding overuse in simple contrasts. Remember, while outcomes may appear alike, the underlying motivations can diverge significantly, and "but for different" effectively highlights this distinction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, the reasons diverge

Emphasizes the divergence in reasons or motivations.

yet, the rationale differs

Highlights a contrast in the underlying rationale.

though the causes vary

Focuses on the variation in causes or origins.

while the motives are distinct

Underscores the distinct nature of the motives involved.

nonetheless, the explanations are not the same

Points out that the explanations provided are dissimilar.

still, the justifications differ

Highlights the difference in the justifications offered.

conversely, the reasoning is disparate

Indicates a contrast in the line of reasoning.

in contrast, the objectives diverge

Emphasizes the diverging nature of the objectives.

on the other hand, the basis is dissimilar

Presents a dissimilar basis or foundation.

even so, the grounds are not identical

Notes that the grounds or premises are not the same.

FAQs

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

Use "but for different" to indicate that while there might be a similarity in outcome or situation, the reasons behind them are distinct. For example, "Both companies experienced growth, but for different reasons."

What does "but for different" mean?

It means that although there is a similarity or shared aspect, the underlying reasons or causes are not the same. It's used to draw a distinction based on the rationale behind something.

What can I say instead of "but for different"?

You can use alternatives like "however the reasons diverge", "yet the rationale differs", or "though the causes vary" depending on the context.

Is "but for different reasons" grammatically correct?

Yes, "but for different reasons" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to express a contrast in the reasons behind similar situations or outcomes.