but not always

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not always" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that something is not always the case, and that other options are possible. For example, "It is important to be prepared for any situation, but not always possible to do so."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sometimes, but not always.

Forbes

But not always in Italy.

The Economist

But not always so.

The Guardian - Books

That is true sometimes, but not always.

The Economist

Usually, but not always, he will survive.

The New York Times

Sometimes they are, but not always.

The New York Times - Sports

Sometimes he succeeds, but not always.

The New York Times - Arts

Service is speedy but not always polished.

The New York Times

Servers were friendly but not always efficient.

The New York Times

But not always in a timely manner.

The New York Times

This is obvious, but not always remembered.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not always" to introduce a nuanced perspective or exception to a general statement. This prevents your writing from sounding overly absolute or dogmatic.

Common error

Avoid using "but not always" in very simple sentences where the exception is already obvious. For example, instead of "Dogs bark, but not always", consider if the 'but not always' is truly necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not always" functions as a conjunction phrase used to introduce a qualification or exception to a preceding statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it acknowledges that a generalization may not hold true in every instance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but not always" serves as a valuable tool for adding nuance and precision to writing. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts. It is particularly useful in qualifying general statements and acknowledging exceptions. Common usage patterns include news, science, and encyclopedic content. Remember to employ it judiciously to avoid redundancy and enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though not always

Expresses a contrast, similar to "but not always", with a slightly different structure.

although not always

Introduces a contrasting element; while something might be true, it isn't a certainty.

but not necessarily

Implies that something is possible, but not a requirement.

yet not always

Offers a similar negation with a hint of surprise or unexpectedness.

but not invariably

Suggests that something is generally true, but with occasional exceptions.

but not universally

Highlights that something does not apply to everyone or everything.

not always the case

Highlights that the preceding statement is not a universal truth.

but not constantly

Indicates that something happens sometimes, but not all the time.

but not consistently

Emphasizes that something may vary or change.

not necessarily so

Suggests that a conclusion might not follow logically from the preceding statement.

FAQs

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

Use "but not always" to introduce an exception or qualification to a previous statement. For example: "Being prepared is essential, but not always possible."

What is a good alternative to "but not always"?

Alternatives include "but not necessarily", "but not invariably", or "though not always" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "but not always" grammatically correct?

Yes, "but not always" is grammatically correct. It functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting a statement with a qualification.

What's the difference between "but not always" and "but not necessarily"?

"But not always" indicates that something isn't universally true, while ""but not necessarily"" suggests that something isn't required or guaranteed.