but just

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but just" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to indicate that something is only true to a small extent. For example: "He thinks he knows everything, but just enough to get himself into trouble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But just how bad?

The New York Times

worked, but just barely.

The New York Times

But just this once".

The New York Times - Arts

But just not here".

Independent

But just barely".

The New York Times

But just not now.

The New York Times

But just how significant?

The New York Times

But just try.

The New York Times

But just begun.

The New York Times - Science

But just not yet.

The Economist

But just one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but just", ensure the contrast is clear and the qualification is relevant to maintain clarity and coherence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but just" excessively in formal writing; it can sound too casual or diminish the impact of your statements. Opt for more formal alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but just" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas while often downplaying the significance of the second idea. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English, indicating its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but just" serves as a conjunction phrase used to introduce a slight contrast or qualification, often diminishing the impact of the second part of the sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While frequently found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register, making it less suitable for formal academic contexts. To enhance clarity and formality in professional writing, consider using alternatives such as "however only" or "nevertheless".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but barely

Emphasizes how something is only achieved to a small degree, just as "but just" qualifies a statement.

but exclusively

Like "but just", it focuses on the exclusive nature of something, highlighting what is specifically included.

however only

Emphasizes the limitation, similar to "but just", focusing on the restrictive aspect.

but purely

Similar to "but just", it emphasizes the simple or unmixed nature of the condition being introduced.

yet simply

Conveys a straightforward contrast, akin to "but just", highlighting the uncomplicated nature of the alternative.

though merely

Like "but just", it introduces a slight contradiction or qualification, downplaying the significance of the second part.

albeit solely

Formally introduces an exception or qualification, much like "but just" does in a more casual tone.

nonetheless only

Highlights a contrast, emphasizing the restrictive nature of the condition, similar to "but just".

still simply

Indicates a continuation or persistence despite a contrast, echoing the function of "but just".

even so, only

Emphasizes the limiting aspect following a concession, paralleling how "but just" sets a condition.

FAQs

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

"But just" introduces a slight contrast or qualification. For example, "The movie was long, "but just" a little boring" indicates it wasn't overwhelmingly boring.

What's the difference between "but just" and "but only"?

"But just" implies a slight limitation or qualification, while "but only" emphasizes exclusivity. "He was late, "but just" by a minute" suggests a minor delay, whereas "He invited everyone, "but only" his close friends" highlights a specific group.

What are some alternatives to "but just"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "however only", "yet simply", or "though merely" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "but just" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "but just" is generally more suitable for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" for a more professional tone.