but largely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but largely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is mostly true or applicable, while acknowledging that there may be exceptions or nuances. Example: "The project was successful, but largely due to the team's hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tempting, but largely wrong.

The Economist

But largely true.

The New York Times - Sports

It has copious but largely harmless conflagration.

The New York Times

Charming but largely untrained staff.

The New York Times

The protests were vocal, but largely peaceful.

The Guardian

These are promising, but largely untested ideas, screaming for scrutiny.

The Economist

Patrick is enormously empathic, but largely on his own behalf.

The New Yorker

Put differently, inspections are thorough but largely sporadic.

The New York Times

The country has vast but largely untapped mineral deposits.

The Economist

The boats are different in design but largely similar.

Independent

The oversight board has been well meaning but largely ineffective".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but largely", ensure the contrasting element is significant enough to warrant mention, but not so dominant as to overshadow the primary aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "but largely" when the exception nearly outweighs the main point. In such cases, consider rephrasing to emphasize the exception or using a different conjunction to better reflect the balance of importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but largely" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, introducing a qualification or contrast to a preceding statement. It signals that while something is generally true, there are exceptions or limitations. As Ludwig shows, this phrase effectively adds nuance and precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but largely" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a qualification or exception to a general statement. As per Ludwig AI, it's deemed grammatically correct and usable across a range of contexts, particularly in news, media and scientific writing. While phrases like "however primarily", "yet mostly" and "although chiefly" offer similar meanings, "but largely" provides a nuanced way to balance general truths with specific exceptions. Remember to use this phrase when you want to acknowledge limitations without undermining the overall point and to avoid overstating the exception.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but for the most part

More descriptive, specifying that something is true in most instances.

however primarily

Emphasizes the primary aspect despite a contrasting element, shifting focus slightly.

however on the whole

Signifies that despite some exceptions, the overall situation is as stated.

yet mostly

Similar to "but largely" but conveys a stronger sense of contrast or surprise.

although chiefly

More formal than "but largely", it highlights the main component with a subordinate clause.

though mainly

A more informal alternative to "but largely", suitable for casual contexts.

notwithstanding principally

Highly formal, emphasizing a condition that does not prevent the main point.

despite primarily

Highlights the contrast, suggesting the primary aspect exists in opposition to something else.

even so predominantly

Indicates that despite a preceding statement, the predominant aspect remains.

while generally

Implies a simultaneous contrast, where something is generally true, but with exceptions.

FAQs

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

Use "but largely" to introduce a qualification or exception to a general statement. For example, "The project was successful, but largely due to the team's dedication."

What are some alternatives to "but largely"?

You can use alternatives like "however primarily", "yet mostly", or "although chiefly" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is there a difference between "but largely" and "but mainly"?

"But mainly" and "but largely" are similar, but "but mainly" emphasizes the primary reason or factor, while "but largely" focuses on the extent or degree to which something is true. Use the most appropriate phrase for your intended meaning.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "but largely"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "but largely" can sometimes sound awkward. Consider rephrasing the sentence to improve flow and readability, or use a different conjunction if more appropriate.