but not absolutely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not absolutely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is true to a certain extent, but there are exceptions or limitations. Example: "The results are promising, but not absolutely conclusive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This approach derives from the expectation that because of genotyping errors, the probability of finding false recombinants between absolutely linked markers is higher than observing absolute linkage for closely (but not absolutely) linked markers.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Losing weight is ideal but not absolutely mandatory.

Harvard University

Coursework in statistics, economics, and psychology are desirable, but not absolutely necessary.

University of California, Berkeley

Coursework in statistics and psychology are desirable, but not absolutely necessary.

University of California, Berkeley

Experience working with databases (FileMaker and Excel) desirable but not absolutely necessary.

Harvard University

"This was largely an ethnic vote, but not absolutely," Mr. Ghai said of the referendum.

The New York Times

What the researchers found was that power pays, but not absolutely.

The New York Times - Science

I must take exception to your description of after-school programs as "beneficial but not absolutely essential".

The New York Times

"The examiner could testify to that information, to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty, but not absolutely," the letter read.

The New York Times

The third ride was allowed for an after-school program that often is beneficial but not absolutely essential.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This would suggest either that the establishment and/or maintenance of transcriptional quiescence is not a necessary step in PGC development in Drosophila or that pgc has an important, but not absolutely essential, role in this process.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not absolutely" to introduce a nuanced perspective, acknowledging a prevailing condition while allowing for exceptions. For example, 'The data suggests a trend, but not absolutely conclusive evidence'.

Common error

Avoid using "but not absolutely" when the situation demands a definite statement. If certainty is crucial, rephrase to eliminate ambiguity. Misusing the phrase weakens your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not absolutely" functions as a qualifier or a hedge. It modifies a statement, indicating that while something is generally true, it is not invariably or universally so. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, as demonstrated in numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but not absolutely" is a versatile qualifier that introduces nuance and precision to statements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. Its primary function is to acknowledge potential exceptions or limitations, preventing overgeneralizations. The phrase sees frequent use in science, news media, and academia, reflecting its suitability across different levels of formality. When aiming for accuracy and balance, consider using "but not absolutely" to avoid overly definitive claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but not entirely

Indicates something is mostly, but not completely, the case.

but not completely

Similar to 'not entirely', suggesting a partial truth or condition.

but not totally

Implies near completeness, but acknowledges a remaining degree of exception.

but not fully

Suggests something lacks a degree of perfection or realization.

but not perfectly

Highlights imperfection or a deviation from an ideal state.

but not strictly

Indicates a rule or condition that is generally, but not always, followed.

but not necessarily

Suggests that something is possible or even likely, but not inevitable or required.

but not categorically

Indicates that a statement does not apply in every single instance or category.

though not necessarily

Mirrors the sentiment of 'but not necessarily', often used to qualify a previous statement.

although not entirely

Expresses a concession, indicating something is true to a large extent but with some exceptions.

FAQs

How can I use "but not absolutely" in a sentence?

Use "but not absolutely" to qualify a statement, indicating it's generally true but may have exceptions. For example, 'Following the rules is important, but not absolutely mandatory in emergencies'.

What phrases are similar to "but not absolutely"?

You can use alternatives like "but not entirely", "but not completely", or "but not necessarily" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "but not absolutely" or "but not entirely"?

The choice depends on the context. "But not absolutely" emphasizes the possibility of exceptions, while "but not entirely" suggests a degree of incompleteness.

Can "but not absolutely" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "but not absolutely" is suitable for formal writing as it provides a nuanced qualification. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and precision required in the context.