but not immediately

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not immediately" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something will happen later, but not right away. Example: "I will respond to your request, but not immediately, as I need some time to gather the necessary information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But not immediately.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yes – but not immediately.

The Guardian

Ultimately, Goldwater won that argument, but not immediately.

The New York Times

They have chlorine, which kills almost everything, but not immediately.

The New York Times - Health

That promise could probably be broken, but not immediately, which rules out any seat outside London.

The Economist

Kentucky loomed, but not immediately, not when the Jayhawks triumphed in the "other game".

The New York Times - Sports

The intense aroma was somewhat chemical, but not immediately unpleasant (though locals occasionally complain).

The New Yorker

The "Odd Couple" series made Mr. Klugman a celebrity, but not immediately.

The New York Times - Arts

The new service will be available on PCs and Macs, but not immediately on televisions.

The Guardian

"I'm absolutely convinced that it will have an impact, but not immediately," Professor Tivig said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The grandee pondered this impertinence but did not immediately respond.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not immediately" to clearly indicate that an action or result will occur, but with a delay. This helps manage expectations and provide a more precise understanding of timing.

Common error

Avoid using "but not immediately" when you mean something will never happen. The phrase implies a delay, not a complete absence. If something will not happen, state that directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not immediately" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating that an action or event will occur, but with a delay. As Ludwig confirms, it is a valid and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but not immediately" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something will occur, but with a delay. As Ludwig confirms, it's a valid expression for managing expectations across various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While it's suitable for both formal and informal communication, it's important to use it accurately, implying a delay rather than a complete absence of action. Alternatives such as "but not right away" or "eventually" can be used to vary your phrasing while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but not right away

Uses a more informal and direct synonym for "immediately".

though not instantly

Replaces "immediately" with a direct synonym, preserving the core meaning.

albeit with a delay

Introduces the delay as a concession or acknowledged fact.

but at a later stage

Highlights a sequential process with distinct phases.

but down the line

Suggests something will happen later but not right now.

but after some time

Specifies a delay more explicitly than the original phrase.

but in due course

Implies a natural or expected progression of time.

but eventually

Focuses on the eventual occurrence, downplaying the immediate absence.

but not forthwith

Uses a formal and somewhat archaic synonym for immediately.

but in the fullness of time

Suggests a longer, more patient waiting period.

FAQs

What does "but not immediately" mean?

The phrase "but not immediately" means that something will happen or be done, but not right away; there will be a delay before the action occurs or the result is achieved.

What are some alternatives to "but not immediately"?

You can use alternatives like "but not right away", "but eventually", or "but after some time", depending on the context.

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

Here's an example: "I will address your concerns, "but not immediately", as I need to gather more information first."

Is "but not immediately" formal or informal?

The phrase "but not immediately" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.