but not so

USAGE SUMMARY

"but not so" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to show contrast between two ideas or thoughts. For example: "I used to think that traveling was expensive, but not so with some of the budget airlines these days."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But not so.

The New York Times

But not so domestically.

Independent

But not so here.

The New York Times

"But not so much".

The New York Times

But not so fast.

The New York Times

But not so quick!

Yale University

But not so with Hazaras.

The New York Times

But not so much east.

The Economist

But not so in 2012.

The New York Times

Yes, but not so blatantly.

The New York Times

But not so in Canada.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but not so" to introduce a contrasting fact or situation that corrects a previous assumption. It's effective for creating a sense of surprise or correction.

Common error

While acceptable in most writing, avoid overusing "but not so" in highly formal documents. More sophisticated transitional phrases might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not so" functions as a transitional phrase introducing a contrast or contradiction to a preceding statement. It serves to correct a misconception or present an opposing viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but not so" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrasting element that often corrects or modifies a previous statement. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally acceptable, it's important to consider the level of formality required by the writing context and to avoid overuse. The phrase offers a straightforward way to redirect the reader or listener to a different perspective. Alternatives like "however, that's not the case" or "on the contrary" can provide a more formal tone when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is incorrect

A straightforward and direct way to state that something is wrong.

on the contrary

A more formal and emphatic way to express the opposite.

quite the opposite

Similar to "on the contrary", but perhaps slightly less formal.

however, that's not the case

This alternative provides a slightly more formal way to contradict a previous statement.

that's not exactly true

Similar to the previous option, this also offers a milder form of contradiction.

that's not quite right

This phrase is less direct and can soften the disagreement.

that's not how it is

This alternative emphasizes a difference in the actual state of affairs.

it's not like that

This is a more casual way to express disagreement or correction.

actually, no

A simple and direct way to express disagreement.

not at all

This phrase strongly denies or contradicts a previous statement.

FAQs

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

Use "but not so" to introduce a contrasting element that corrects a previous statement. For example, "I thought it would rain, "but not so". The sun is shining."

What phrases are similar to "but not so"?

Alternatives include "however, that's not the case", "on the contrary", or "that's not quite right". Each carries a slightly different tone and level of formality.

Is "but not so" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "but not so" might be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using phrases like "however" or "on the contrary" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "but not so" and "but not quite"?

"But not so" typically introduces a complete contradiction, while "but not quite" suggests something is close but not entirely accurate or complete. For example, "He finished the race, "but not so" quickly" versus "He finished the race, "but not quite" in first place".