but incredibly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but incredibly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea that emphasizes the surprising or remarkable nature of the statement that follows. Example: "The weather was cold and dreary, but incredibly, we still managed to enjoy our picnic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tastes quite fishy but incredibly salty.

Independent

The soup is thin but incredibly smooth.

The New York Times - Food

It's grandiose, but incredibly affecting.

The Guardian - Music

But incredibly able and strong hands".

The New York Times

It's weird, but incredibly involving.

The Guardian - Tech

That's very freeing but incredibly intense.

The Guardian

It's knackering, yes, but incredibly fulfilling.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was light, but incredibly comforting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"But, incredibly, it's becoming a city of very small businesses.

The New York Times

I find this work difficult, but incredibly rewarding.

The New York Times

"It is pretty boring stuff, but incredibly important," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but incredibly" to introduce a statement that sharply contrasts with what was previously stated, adding emphasis to the surprising nature of the new information. This is particularly effective when you want to highlight an unexpected outcome or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "but incredibly" excessively in very informal conversations or writing, as it can sometimes sound overly dramatic or theatrical. Consider simpler alternatives like "but surprisingly" or "yet" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but incredibly" primarily functions as a conjunctive adverb. It connects two clauses, introducing a contrast while emphasizing the surprising or remarkable nature of the second clause. Ludwig AI identifies this usage in numerous examples where it bridges opposing ideas with an element of astonishment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"But incredibly" is a frequently used conjunction phrase to introduce an element of surprise or unexpected contrast. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely employed across various sources, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it is crucial to consider the context and audience, avoiding overuse in informal settings where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Its strength lies in emphasizing the remarkable nature of the information presented.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet astonishingly

Replaces "but incredibly" with an emphasis on the surprising nature of the statement.

however remarkably

Substitutes "but incredibly" with a more formal tone, highlighting the noteworthy aspect.

surprisingly enough

Offers a simpler alternative, directly indicating surprise.

unexpectedly

Focuses on the lack of anticipation associated with the statement.

contrary to expectations

Emphasizes the opposition to what was anticipated.

against all odds

Highlights the improbable nature of the statement.

despite everything

Implies a resilience or persistence in the face of difficulties.

even so

A shorter, more concise way to introduce a contrast.

notwithstanding

A formal way to introduce a contrasting point despite a previous statement.

to everyone's surprise

Directly indicates that the statement is surprising to a group of people.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but incredibly" in a sentence?

Use "but incredibly" to introduce a contrasting element that also emphasizes surprise. For instance, "The task was difficult, "but incredibly", we finished ahead of schedule."

What are some alternatives to "but incredibly" that I can use?

You can use alternatives like "yet astonishingly", "however remarkably", or "surprisingly enough" depending on the context.

Is there a difference in formality between "but incredibly" and other alternatives?

"But incredibly" is relatively neutral in formality. Alternatives like "notwithstanding" are more formal, while "surprisingly" might be more informal.

In what contexts is "but incredibly" most appropriate?

The phrase "but incredibly" is most appropriate in situations where you want to highlight a surprising contrast, particularly in news reporting, storytelling, or when emphasizing an unexpected outcome. Consider the alternatives only if you wish to nuance the emphasis.