but for such

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but for such" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something would not have happened or been the case if not for a specific condition or circumstance. Example: "But for such unforeseen circumstances, the event would have proceeded as planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But for such a transparent substance, water's economics are anything but clear.

Harvard Business Review

The show is a bit on the lightweight side, but for such a rookie it's an impressive debut, and she has the sort of natural charisma that can't be held back.

The Guardian

But for such an ambitious book to defer the basic question it sets out to answer is not really good enough.

The Guardian - Books

But for such a plan to be successful, it will require VCs to move outside of their comfort zone and look toward areas they haven't traditionally considered hotbeds for innovation.

TechCrunch

But, for such assemblies, edge effects also exist.

International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives

But for such a mild intervention, the effects were notable.

The Washington Post

But for such a highly studied protein, p53 has hidden its tactics well.

Stanford University

But for such a seasonal regular, the jellyfish has come under remarkably little scrutiny.

The New York Times

But for such performers, there was a gap between the ideal and the real.

The New York Times - Books

But for such a long term outlook, pricing is changing awfully frequently, and is highly localized.

The Washington Post

But for such relationships to flourish, the book main tains, small primary schools are essential.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but for such", ensure the subsequent clause clearly explains the consequence that would not have occurred without the specified condition.

Common error

Avoid using "but for such" in overly simple sentences where a direct causal statement would be more effective. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but for such" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a condition or exception that affects the outcome of a situation. This aligns with Ludwig AI analysis, which confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples show it linking a hypothetical scenario to a real consequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but for such" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a conditional conjunction. It's commonly employed in news, scientific, and formal business contexts to establish causality, explaining how a particular condition influences an outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and while it's versatile, writers should be mindful of potential over-complication in simpler sentences. Consider alternative phrasings such as "except for such" or "without such" to ensure clarity and conciseness. When used judiciously, the phrase "but for such" effectively clarifies causal relationships in various forms of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were it not for such

Emphasizes a hypothetical condition more formally.

had it not been for such

Similar to 'were it not', but referring to a past condition.

except for such

Directly indicates an exception to a general statement.

if it weren't for such

A more conversational way to express a conditional exception.

absent such

A more concise and formal way of saying 'without such'.

apart from such

Highlights a specific exclusion or exception.

without such

Focuses on the absence of the condition as the defining factor.

aside from such

Similar to 'apart from', focusing on what is excluded.

save for such

Indicates an exception, often in a slightly more literary style.

but for these

Using 'these' to refer to specific conditions or factors.

FAQs

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

Use "but for such" to introduce a condition that, if absent, would have resulted in a different outcome. For example, "But for such unforeseen circumstances, the project would have been completed on time."

What phrases are similar to "but for such"?

Similar phrases include "were it not for such", "except for such", and "had it not been for such".

Is "but for such" formal or informal?

"But for such" is generally considered a formal phrase, often used in legal or academic writing. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal contexts.

When is it best to avoid using "but for such"?

Avoid using "but for such" when a simpler, more direct phrasing would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound convoluted. Consider alternatives like "without such" or "absent such" for more concise expression.