but mainly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but mainly" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used as a conjunction to introduce a main idea or point that contrasts with something previously stated. For example: "I usually enjoy travelling, but mainly I like to explore different cultures and cuisines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But mainly, don't worry.

Independent

But mainly awed.

The New York Times

But, mainly, they are alone.

Independent

But, mainly, we conned them.

The New Yorker

But, mainly, younger self — live!

The New Yorker

"But mainly it's to drink".

The New York Times

But mainly that name though.

Independent

But mainly, it's a magazine.

The New York Times

But mainly for Scotland.

The Guardian - Sport

"But mainly, I think..

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But mainly spiteful.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but mainly" to introduce the most important point after mentioning other contributing factors. This helps to prioritize information and guide the reader's focus.

Common error

Avoid using "but mainly" when a simple conjunction like "but" or an adverb like "mostly" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but mainly" functions as a conjunction to introduce a primary point or reason, often in contrast to or as a clarification of something previously mentioned. Ludwig examples show its use in various sentence structures to highlight the most significant factor. It serves to guide the reader's focus to the key element.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but mainly" is a grammatically correct and very common conjunction phrase used to introduce the most important point, especially in contrast to other contributing factors. As highlighted by Ludwig's analysis, it's prevalent in news and media. While versatile, it's best used when prioritizing information is key, avoiding overuse in simple sentences. Consider alternatives like "however primarily" or "chiefly but" for variety. Overall, "but mainly" is a reliable way to guide your reader to the core message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chiefly but

A more concise alternative focusing on the primary element.

mainly though

Omission of conjunction "but" and addition of the conjunction "though"

mostly but

Inverts the structure slightly, putting "mostly" before "but" for a different emphasis.

however primarily

Replaces "but" with "however" maintaining the contrast, and "mainly" with "primarily" for a slightly more formal tone.

yet chiefly

Uses "yet" to express contrast and "chiefly" to highlight the most important element.

principally though

Emphasizes the principal aspect while using "though" to introduce a contrast.

largely however

Highlights the extent to which something is true, using "however" to signal a contrast.

predominantly although

More formal alternative, replacing "mainly" with "predominantly" and "but" with "although".

essentially however

Focuses on the essential aspect, using "however" for contrast.

fundamentally though

Highlights the fundamental aspect while contrasting it with other possible factors.

FAQs

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

Use "but mainly" to introduce the primary reason or aspect after mentioning other contributing factors. For example, "I enjoy all types of fruit, "but mainly" I prefer apples".

What phrases are similar to "but mainly"?

Similar phrases include "however primarily", "chiefly but", or "mostly but", all of which emphasize a primary element while acknowledging other factors.

Is it grammatically correct to use "but mainly"?

Yes, "but mainly" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English to introduce a main point that contrasts with or expands upon something previously stated, as confirmed by Ludwig.

What's the difference between "but mainly" and "but especially"?

"But mainly" emphasizes the most important aspect, while "but especially" highlights something that stands out among others. You can say something like, "I enjoy watching sports, "but mainly" football", which would mean football is your favorite sport. You can also say "I enjoy watching sports, "but especially" the Olympics", which means the Olympics are particularly special for you.