but not alone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not alone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that while someone is involved in an action or situation, they are not the only one participating or responsible for it. Example: "I appreciate your support, but not alone can I achieve this goal; we need the whole team's effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We can do it, but not alone.

The Guardian - Opinion

I was lonely, but not alone.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Wood was flummoxed, but not alone.

The New York Times

In better shape, but not alone.

The Guardian - Opinion

He's far from home but not alone.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Hewlett has led the opposition, but not alone.

The New York Times

He was asked to leave and he did so, but not alone.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

But America is not alone.

The Economist

But Broadchurch is not alone.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But wheat is not alone.

The Economist

"But they're not alone".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not alone" to subtly acknowledge support or collaboration while still highlighting an individual's role or experience. It adds nuance to your writing, showing awareness of context and relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "but not alone" when you truly want to emphasize complete independence. This phrase inherently implies some level of connection or assistance, so ensure it aligns with your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not alone" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas. It typically qualifies a preceding statement, indicating that while a particular state or action is true, it is not experienced in complete isolation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

19%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but not alone" is a versatile conjunction phrase used to indicate that while a certain condition or action applies, it is not experienced in complete isolation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news and media, science, and wiki sources, conveying a sense of shared experience or collaboration. When writing, use "but not alone" to add nuance by acknowledging support or connection, but be mindful of its implications; if you want to emphasize complete independence, this is not the phrase you're looking for. Alternatives like "but with others" or "but together with" can provide similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but with others

This alternative directly replaces 'alone' with 'with others', emphasizing the presence of companions or collaborators.

but together with

This phrase highlights the collaborative aspect, suggesting a joint effort or shared experience.

but not in isolation

This explicitly negates the idea of being separate or detached.

but in conjunction with

Focuses on the combined action or effect of multiple elements, rather than isolation.

but in collaboration with

Highlights the cooperative nature of an endeavor.

but accompanied by

Emphasizes the presence of something or someone else alongside the primary subject.

but with company

Replaces 'alone' with 'with company', highlighting the presence of other people.

but as part of a group

Indicates membership or involvement in a collective entity.

but not single-handedly

Specifies that the action was not performed by one person alone.

but shoulder to shoulder

This idiom emphasizes the collaborative and supportive nature of working together.

FAQs

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

You can use "but not alone" to indicate that while someone or something is experiencing a situation, they are not the only one. For example, "He felt scared, "but not alone", knowing others shared his fears".

What are some alternatives to "but not alone"?

Alternatives include phrases like "but with others", "but together with", or "but not in isolation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "but not alone"?

Yes, "but not alone" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions as a conjunction phrase, linking a statement with a qualification that something is not experienced or done in isolation.

What's the difference between "but not alone" and "but alone"?

"But not alone" implies that someone or something is accompanied or supported, while "but alone" emphasizes solitude or independence. The former suggests a connection, whereas the latter highlights isolation.