but largely because

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but largely because" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a reason or explanation that is significant but not the sole factor in a situation. Example: "The project was delayed, but largely because of unforeseen circumstances that arose during the planning phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This strategy, if it is one, has worked reasonably well to date (see chart)—but largely because the original BMW has a wonderful brand and very profitable models.

The Economist

But largely because of Sprewell, the Knicks came alive.

The New York Times - Sports

But, largely because of Israel, that is about to change.

The New Yorker

He does not succeed despite his estrangement from U.S. Speedskating but largely because of it.

The New York Times - Magazine

But largely because of Icesave, public opinion in Iceland is shifting.

The Economist

It is, but largely because of the crime that the incomers attract and are victims of.

The Economist

The trade deficit widened but largely because of an increase in imports.

The New York Times

The gap between it and European countries has increased, but largely because of Europe's growing godlessness.

The Economist

(She gets work in a cabaret, but largely because she sings Weill's songs).

The New Yorker

But, largely because of technology, "a thirteen-year-old is really different".

The New Yorker

Boice expressed concerns about terrorism, but largely because he believes people are seriously misinformed about radiation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but largely because", ensure that the preceding statement introduces a contrast or unexpected element. This strengthens the impact of the reason you are about to provide.

Common error

Avoid using "but largely because" when the reason you're giving is the only reason. This phrase implies that other factors are involved, even if they are less significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but largely because" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas while introducing a primary cause or reason. It indicates that while there might be other contributing factors, the stated reason is the most significant. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is deemed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but largely because" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunction phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to introduce a primary, yet not exclusive, reason for a contrasting statement. Its usage is most common in news and media, though it appears in scientific and formal business contexts as well. To ensure effective communication, remember that "but largely because" implies the presence of other contributing factors, making it unsuitable when stating the sole cause. By using the phrase skillfully, you can enhance the clarity and nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but primarily because

Changes 'largely' to 'primarily', indicating a slightly stronger emphasis on the reason given.

but mainly because

Replaces 'largely' with 'mainly', offering a more common and slightly less formal alternative.

but mostly because

Swaps 'largely' for 'mostly', suggesting the reason is the biggest factor, though not necessarily exclusively so.

but principally because

Substitutes 'largely' with 'principally', adding a touch of formality and emphasizing a leading cause.

but chiefly because

Replaces 'largely' with 'chiefly', highlighting the main or most important reason.

but significantly because

Changes 'largely' to 'significantly', emphasizing the considerable impact of the reason.

but predominantly because

Substitutes 'largely' with 'predominantly', indicating the reason is the most influential.

but essentially because

Replaces 'largely' with 'essentially', suggesting the reason is fundamental or crucial.

but generally because

Changes 'largely' to 'generally', indicating the reason is true in most cases, but not necessarily all.

but basically because

Swaps 'largely' for 'basically', offering a more informal way to indicate the fundamental reason.

FAQs

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

Use "but largely because" to introduce a significant, yet not exclusive, reason for a situation or outcome. For example, "The project succeeded, but largely because of the team's dedication".

What phrases are similar to "but largely because"?

Alternatives include "but primarily because", "but mainly because", or "but mostly because", each offering a slightly different emphasis on the degree of influence of the stated reason.

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

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence directly with "but largely because" can sometimes sound informal. It is generally better to use it within a clause that contrasts with a previous statement.

What is the difference between "but largely because" and "solely because"?

"But largely because" implies other factors contribute to the situation, whereas "solely because" suggests that the stated reason is the only contributing factor. Using "solely because" indicates a single cause, but "but largely because" implies multiple causes with the one being mentioned as more important.