but normally

USAGE SUMMARY

"but normally" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express something that usually happens in a situation, but is not happening now. Example: It's usually sunny at this time of year, but normally the days are cool and dry.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"But normally is a big word".

The New York Times

But normally I don't go to bars.

The New York Times

"I do for the Abbey, but normally, no," he said.

The New York Times

People are at work, but normally busy corners are quiet.

The New Yorker

"But normally people don't curse or shout," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

So far, NWSL business is proceeding quietly but normally.

The Guardian - Sport

But normally I start writing the story first.

The New Yorker

Other theatres: lowercase for "theatre", eg Adelphi theatre, Crucible theatre (but normally just Adelphi, Crucible).

The Guardian

But normally talkative analysts and former officials were also saying little.

The Guardian

I think we should [appeal], but normally it's a waste of time.

The Guardian - Sport

But normally it's hard to hear it without being riven by distaste for the man himself.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but normally", ensure the contrast is clear. The phrase works best when it sets up an expectation that is then subverted by the statement that follows.

Common error

Avoid using "but normally" to introduce a contrast that is illogical or doesn't make sense. The contrasting statement should be a plausible deviation from the norm, not something completely unrelated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but normally" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It serves to introduce a contrast between a general expectation or typical situation and a specific instance that deviates from that norm. As shown by Ludwig AI, the phrase is commonly employed to set up a contrast.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

22%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but normally" is a frequently used conjunctive phrase employed to introduce a contrast between a general expectation and a specific situation. According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical function is sound, and it effectively communicates a deviation from the norm. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, its register is neutral, making it suitable for a wide array of writing styles. While "but normally" is widely accepted, exploring alternatives can add nuance to your writing. When employing "but normally", ensure logical contrast and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, typically

Replaces "but normally" by introducing a contrasting statement with an emphasis on typicality.

yet, in general

Emphasizes the contrast while specifying that the general case is being considered.

although, usually

Indicates a concession followed by what is typically the case.

even so, customarily

Highlights the contrast with an emphasis on custom or habit.

nonetheless, ordinarily

Stronger contrastive, indicating the situation is different than the ordinary case.

despite that, as a rule

Highlights the contrast while specifying the general rule.

conversely, typically

Introduces the contrast and highlights that something is behaving as is typical.

in contrast, generally

Emphasizes the contrasting nature of the statement and that it behaves generally.

on the other hand, usually

Offers an alternative perspective with the common case.

then again, customarily

Introduces another possibility or consideration, especially one that contrasts with what has just been said, emphasizing custom.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but normally" in a sentence?

Use "but normally" to contrast a current situation with what is generally expected or typical. For example, "The train is usually on time, but normally it's delayed during rush hour".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "but normally"?

You can use alternatives like "however typically", "yet in general", or "although usually" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "but normally" and "but usually"?

While "but normally" and "but usually" are quite similar, "but normally" suggests a stronger sense of what is standard or the norm. "But usually" might imply a higher frequency without necessarily being the standard case.

Can "but normally" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "but normally" is acceptable in formal writing, but more sophisticated alternatives like "nonetheless ordinarily" or "despite that, as a rule" may enhance the tone.