but next time

USAGE SUMMARY

"but next time" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something will happen in the future; for example, "I'm sorry about what happened, but next time please remember to be on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But next time win.

The New Yorker

But next time, eat a Snickers".

The New York Times

But next time".

The Guardian - Sport

But next time give them my number".

The New Yorker

But next time, no kimchi.

The New York Times

But next time they'll be ready.

The Guardian - Sport

We didn't, but next time, we will.

The New York Times

But next time I might not be so lucky.

The New York Times - Tech

But next time they're around, I'll be back.

The Guardian - Music

But next time I'm going to eat dim sum.

The Guardian

But next time around, an outside chairman is essential.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but next time", ensure the context clearly indicates a future action or event where a different outcome is desired.

Common error

While "but next time" is acceptable, frequent use can make your writing sound repetitive or informal. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "in the future" or "for subsequent attempts" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but next time" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses, introducing a contrasting idea or suggestion for a future occurrence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates a future event where a different outcome is desired or expected.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but next time" is a common and correct phrase used to offer constructive feedback and suggestions for future actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted. While its register is generally neutral, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in academic or highly professional contexts, as described earlier. The phrase is frequently found in News & Media sources, indicating its widespread usage in everyday communication. Remember to use it to phrase advice positively and clearly indicate the context for future actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the next occasion

Highlights planning or anticipation for a subsequent event or instance.

in the future though

Emphasizes a shift in focus to a future occasion, adding a conversational tone.

the following opportunity

Emphasizes the availability of a future chance to take action.

on the subsequent attempt

Focuses on a future try, implying a previous failure or attempt.

next go around though

Informally indicates a future opportunity or chance.

however in the future

Introduces a contrast while pointing to a future possibility.

moving forward though

Implies a change in action or approach is being considered for later situations, also adding a conversational tone.

yet on the return

Suggests a future iteration or comeback with a hint of anticipation.

come the future instance

Refers to a hypothetical or anticipated occasion in the future.

in due course however

Indicates something will happen later, adding a formal tone with 'however'.

FAQs

How can I use "but next time" in a sentence?

Use "but next time" to suggest a different action or approach in a future event. For example, "I appreciate your effort, but next time, please submit the report by Friday."

What's a more formal alternative to "but next time"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "in the future", "for subsequent attempts", or "on the next occasion" depending on the specific context. You could say something like "The effort was appreciated, however "in the future", please ensure the report is submitted on time."

Is it correct to say "but the next time" instead of "but next time"?

While "but the next time" isn't grammatically incorrect, "but next time" is more concise and commonly used. Both convey the same meaning, but the latter is generally preferred for its simplicity and directness.

Can "but next time" be used in negative contexts?

Yes, "but next time" can be used to address undesirable behavior or outcomes. For example, "I understand you were busy, but next time, please communicate any delays in advance" to avoid negative consequences. "communicate any delays".