but not far

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not far" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is close in distance or time, but not extremely so. Example: "The store is just down the street, but not far from here."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But not far.

The Guardian - Travel

The door opens, but not far.

Columbia University

"I am running sometimes, but not far.

The New Yorker

It's a stereotype but not far off the mark.

Independent

The playing surface has rotated and moved, but not far.

The Guardian - Sport

"We have come a long way, but not far enough.

The Guardian - Business

Leader: Bush has moved - but not far enough.

The Guardian

Rami had edged away, but not far enough.

The New York Times

Auriemma turned away from the microphone, but not far enough.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not global domination, then, but not far off it.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That may be unlikely, but not far-fetched.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not far" to indicate a situation is near a certain point or outcome without fully reaching it. It adds a nuanced understanding of proximity or progress.

Common error

Avoid using "but not far" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language to convey the specific degree of proximity or achievement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not far" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically following a statement to qualify it by indicating proximity or a limited degree of something. Ludwig examples show this phrase used to express that something is near, yet incomplete or insufficient.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but not far" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate proximity or a limited degree. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial modifier, softening statements by acknowledging that something is close but not fully realized. It is appropriate for neutral contexts such as journalism and general writing. While versatile, avoid overuse in formal writing where more precise language might be preferred. Remember that "but not far" adds nuance, balancing nearness with a sense of incompletion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet close

Emphasizes the nearness or similarity with a more concise expression.

only a short distance away

Directly states the limited spatial separation.

still within reach

Focuses on the attainability or accessibility despite some limitations.

not quite there

Indicates progress but acknowledges the destination hasn't been fully reached.

not entirely distant

Highlights that while there is separation, it's not complete.

close, but insufficient

Highlights nearness while emphasizing a lack of completeness.

just around the corner

Indicates immediate proximity, often used metaphorically.

nearby, though limited

Combines spatial closeness with a qualifier of extent.

a stone's throw away

Figuratively expresses very close proximity.

in close proximity

Uses more formal language to convey nearness.

FAQs

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

You can use "but not far" to indicate that something is close to a certain point or outcome, without fully reaching it. For example, "The destination was close, "but not far" enough to walk".

What are some alternatives to "but not far"?

Alternatives to "but not far" include "yet close", "still within reach", or "not entirely distant", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "but not far enough"?

Yes, "but not far enough" is a correct and common usage. It indicates that something has progressed to some extent, but hasn't reached the required level. For example, "We've come a long way, "but not far enough"".

What's the difference between "but not far" and "nearby"?

"Nearby" simply indicates close proximity, while "but not far" implies a sense of potential or expectation that hasn't been completely fulfilled. For example, "The shops are "nearby"" versus "Success was close, "but not far" enough to celebrate".