but i think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but I think" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a personal opinion or belief that contrasts with what has been previously stated. Example: "The project seems to be on track, but I think we should consider additional resources to ensure its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But I think so".

The New York Times - Sports

But I think otherwise.

The New Yorker

But I think not.

The New York Times

But I think it's perfect.

The New Yorker

But I think it's unconvincing".

Independent

But I think that's cheap.

The New Yorker

"But I think he's right.

The New York Times

"But I think it's doable".

The New York Times

But I think it's great".

The New York Times - Sports

But I think he's misguided.

Independent

But I think that's fine.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but I think" in formal writing, consider stronger alternatives like "however I believe" or "nonetheless I conclude" for added impact and clarity.

Common error

Avoid relying excessively on "but I think" in persuasive contexts. It can weaken your argument by suggesting uncertainty. Instead, use stronger, more assertive phrases to convey confidence in your position.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "but I think" is to serve as a discourse marker that introduces a contrasting personal opinion or belief. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples of this usage, showing how it connects differing viewpoints within a sentence or paragraph.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but I think" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a contrasting personal opinion. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, consider stronger alternatives like "however I believe" in formal settings to enhance impact. Avoid overusing "but I think" in persuasive writing to maintain a confident tone. Remember to use "but I think" to politely introduce a different viewpoint after acknowledging a previous statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however I believe

Replaces "think" with "believe", emphasizing a stronger conviction.

yet I feel

Uses "yet" to introduce a contrast and "feel" to express a personal sentiment.

nonetheless I consider

Employs a more formal tone with "nonetheless" and "consider".

still my opinion is

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint more directly as a personal opinion.

even so I reckon

Uses "even so" for contrast and the informal "reckon" for opinion.

that being said I presume

Adds a conversational flow while indicating a presumption.

all the same I surmise

Implies a conclusion based on incomplete evidence with "surmise".

be that as it may I judge

Introduces a formal concession before stating a judgment.

despite that I deem

Uses "deem" to express a formal assessment despite a prior statement.

in spite of everything I assess

Highlights a comprehensive consideration before offering an assessment.

FAQs

How can I use "but I think" in a sentence?

You can use "but I think" to introduce a contrasting opinion or idea. For example, "The proposal is good, but I think we should consider the budget implications."

What can I say instead of "but I think"?

You can use alternatives like "however I believe", "yet I feel", or "nonetheless I consider" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but". While some style guides discouraged it in the past, modern usage accepts it, especially in informal writing, to create a contrast or transition.

What's the difference between "but I think" and "I think but"?

"But I think" introduces a contrasting opinion, while "I think but" is less common and often sounds awkward. It is more natural to place "but" at the beginning to signal the contrast.