but is

USAGE SUMMARY

"but is" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used when introducing a contrasting idea. For example, "He thought he should stay home tonight, but is now reconsidering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But is it representative?

The Economist

But is it credible?

The Economist

But is it racist?

The New York Times

But is this wise?

The Economist

But is it better?

Independent

But is he listening?

The Economist

But is it fashionable?

Independent

But is it wrong?

The New York Times

But is it safe?

The New York Times

But is there politicking?

Independent

But is this creativity?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but is" to introduce a question that challenges a previous statement or assumption. It's effective for prompting critical thinking.

Common error

Avoid using "but is" in very simple sentences where a more direct question would be clearer and more concise. For example, instead of "He is tired, but is he sick?", simply ask "Is he sick?".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but is" serves as a conjunction introducing a contrasting question or counterpoint. It's a tool for critical inquiry, questioning a preceding statement as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but is" functions as a conjunction that introduces a question that contrasts with a previous statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it is best used when a direct question or a clear challenge to a prior claim is intended. Remember to avoid overuse in simple sentences. The analysis suggests that "but is" serves as a valuable tool for prompting critical thought across a range of communicative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet is it

Emphasizes the contrast with "yet", providing a slightly more formal tone.

though is it

Similar in meaning but uses "though" for a slightly more casual feel.

however is it

Replaces "but" with "however", which can sound more academic or thoughtful.

still is it

Implies that something remains true despite a previous statement.

nevertheless is it

A more formal substitute for "but", indicating a strong contrast.

nonetheless is it

Very similar to "nevertheless", maintaining a formal tone.

then is it

Focuses on the logical consequence or implication.

conversely is it

Highlights an opposite or contrasting point of view.

or is it

Presents a direct alternative question.

in contrast is it

Explicitly states that the following question offers a contrast.

FAQs

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

"But is" is used to introduce a contrasting question following a statement. For example, "The plan seems perfect, but is it feasible?". It signals a challenge or doubt about what was previously mentioned.

What are some alternatives to "but is"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "yet is it", "however is it", or "though is it" to introduce a contrasting point.

Is it correct to start a question with "but"?

While starting a question directly with "but" may seem unusual, it is grammatically correct when the question follows a statement and expresses a contrast. For example: "The theory is compelling, but is it testable?".

How formal is the phrase "but is"?

The phrase "but is" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language than the phrase itself. In most instances, it maintains a neutral tone.