Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
but obvious
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "but obvious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is clear or evident, often in contrast to a previous statement or idea. Example: "The solution to the problem was complex, but obvious once we analyzed the data closely."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
This is but 90 days.
News & Media
All but 2? All but 1? All?
News & Media
But 14 years?
News & Media
But 12 DOZEN are.
News & Media
But 27 places?
News & Media
"But 24 years ago?
News & Media
But 48 hours after?
News & Media
But 6'5" will do.
News & Media
But 53 people?
News & Media
But 925 pages go by.
News & Media
All but 300 birds died.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "but obvious" to introduce a point that is clear or evident in contrast to a preceding complexity or misunderstanding. This can effectively highlight a simple solution or understanding.
Common error
Avoid using "but obvious" too frequently, as it can come across as condescending or dismissive. Use it judiciously to emphasize clarity only when necessary.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "but obvious" functions as a contrasting conjunction phrase. It connects a preceding statement with a clarifying point, indicating that the subsequent information should have been readily apparent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "but obvious" is a grammatically correct conjunction phrase used to emphasize clarity and contrast. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its effectiveness hinges on context to avoid sounding condescending. Consider related phrases like "yet clear" for nuanced communication. Given the absence of examples, usage patterns and authoritative sources remain undefined.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
yet clear
Emphasizes the clarity of something in contrast to what preceded it.
however evident
Highlights the obviousness of something despite a previous statement.
though apparent
Indicates that something is easily perceived or understood.
albeit evident
Acknowledges the obvious nature of something, often as a concession.
still apparent
Emphasizes that something remains obvious despite other factors.
even so, clear
Highlights the clarity of something even considering a previous point.
nonetheless obvious
Indicates that something is obvious despite what has been said.
notwithstanding evident
Acknowledges the obviousness of something regardless of other considerations.
but self-evident
Highlights that something is obvious and requires no proof.
however straightforward
Emphasizes the simplicity and obviousness of something.
FAQs
How can I use "but obvious" in a sentence?
The phrase "but obvious" is used to indicate that something is clear or evident, especially after a contrasting or complex statement. For example: "The solution seemed complex at first, but obvious once we reviewed the basic principles".
What are some alternatives to "but obvious"?
You can use alternatives like "yet clear", "however evident", or "though apparent" depending on the context.
Is it ever incorrect to use "but obvious"?
While grammatically correct, using "but obvious" can sometimes be perceived as condescending. Consider your audience and context to ensure it doesn't undermine your message. Alternatives like "yet clear" might be more appropriate in certain situations.
What's the difference between "but obvious" and "obviously"?
"But obvious" is used to contrast something with what came before, highlighting that it should have been clear. "Obviously" is a general adverb to indicate that something is easily perceived. The phrase "but obvious" implies a prior lack of clarity, while "obviously" does not.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested