but for instance

USAGE SUMMARY

"but for instance" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce an example to illustrate a point. For example: "There are many ways to save money, but for instance, you could try cutting out your daily latte."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"One can say that this war against the West started on television," he said, "but, for instance, with the decapitation of the poor hostages in Iraq and Saudi Arabia, those images were propagated via Webcams and the Internet.

The New Yorker

Any reduction of the BUT, for instance by exposure to a chemical, needs to be counteracted by an "extra eyeblink".

Archives of Toxicology

But for instance, I haven't seen a lot of what's on HBO right now.

The New York Times

But, for instance, we represent a gentlemen named Abner Louima who was tortured in a precinct in New York City.

University of California, Berkeley

But, for instance, a multi-billionaire might fund research into autism because he has an autistic child or something.

Harvard University

But, for instance, the thing about old people staying in "homes" away from home blew my mind.

The New Yorker

But, for instance, I loved 'Moneyball,' by Michael Lewis, and I'm not even that big a baseball fan".

The New York Times - Books

Prospective, randomized, controlled trials remain the highest quality evidence for safety and effectiveness assessments, but, for instance, blinding may be challenging.

International Journal of Cardiology

But for instance, in Europe we are 28 right now, but 18 with Latvia that will be on board next January, with the same currency.

The New York Times

But, for instance, the strike by Aslef involving tube drivers was absolutely a strike that was supported more than adequately, according to the thresholds we are introducing".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But for instances of sharp disagreement, the dean will most likely convene the entire admissions committee, with the vote of the majority deciding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but for instance" to smoothly transition from a general statement to a specific example, ensuring the example clearly supports the preceding point.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "but for instance" in a paragraph. Vary your sentence structure by using alternative phrases like "for example" or "to illustrate" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but for instance" functions as a transitional phrase, connecting a general statement with a specific example that supports or clarifies the preceding point. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but for instance" is a versatile transitional phrase used to introduce illustrative examples, often implying a contrast or qualification. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, especially in news, science, and academic writing. While effective, overuse can lead to monotony, so consider varying your sentence structure with alternatives like "for example" or "to illustrate". This ensures clarity and stylistic diversity in your writing, enhancing overall reader engagement and persuasiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for example

A more direct and common way to introduce an example.

as an illustration

More formal and emphasizes the illustrative nature of the example.

by way of example

Slightly more elaborate and formal.

to illustrate

Introduces the purpose of the following example.

for the sake of example

Emphasizes the hypothetical nature of the example.

as a case in point

Highlights the relevance of the example as direct evidence.

to give an idea

Focuses on providing a general understanding through the example.

consider for a moment

Invites the audience to think about a specific instance.

in particular

Draws attention to a specific instance for emphasis.

specifically

Introduces a precise example or detail.

FAQs

How do I use "but for instance" in a sentence?

Use "but for instance" to introduce an example that clarifies or supports a previous statement. For example, "Many factors contribute to success, but for instance, hard work is essential."

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

You can use alternatives like "for example", "as an illustration", or "to illustrate" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "but" and "for instance" together?

While "but" introduces a contrast or exception, "for instance" provides a specific example. Their combined use clarifies that the example supports a contrasting point, adding nuance rather than redundancy.

What is the difference between "but for instance" and "for example"?

"But for instance" implies a slight contrast or qualification before providing the example, whereas "for example" is a more direct and neutral way to introduce an illustration.