but one man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but one man" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that there is only a single individual in a particular context or situation, often in contrast to a larger group. Example: "In a room full of skeptics, but one man stood up to voice his support for the idea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Police kept the groups separated but one man was swooped on by officers after slipping into the anti-racism protest.

The Guardian

But one man can't beat five on his own, especially when the other five include LeBron James.

The Guardian - Sport

But one man stood out.

The Guardian - Sport

But one man was not found for 18 days.

The New York Times

But one man it is seldom easy to forget is David Beckham.

The New York Times - Sports

But one man will be the prom's focus, and Tennant makes no apology about that.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

But "One-Man Show" never quite pulls off the self-aware, sardonic mix of cabaret, theater and dance that it aims for.

The New York Times - Arts

But here, one man's "very moment is but one moment away from being forgotten".

The New York Times

But then one man came out.

The New York Times

But clearly one man wasn't listening.

The Guardian - Sport

But that one man has changed it forever.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but one man", ensure the context clearly establishes the contrasting group or situation to maximize the phrase's impact and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "but one man" when there is no clear contrast or comparison being made. The phrase loses its effectiveness if it's simply stating the existence of one man without implying a difference from others or a general situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but one man" functions as a conjunctive phrase, introducing an exception or contrast to a general statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights a single individual against a backdrop of others or a prevailing condition, as seen in examples like "But one man stood out."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but one man" serves to highlight an individual who stands apart from a group or general trend. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound, though not overly frequent, and sees common usage in news and media, science and even formal and business contexts. To enhance its impact, ensure a clear contrast is established. Alternatives include "yet only one individual" and "however a single person". When writing, be careful to avoid misusing the phrase in contexts lacking a clear contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet only one individual

Replaces 'but' with 'yet' and uses 'individual' for a slightly more formal tone.

however, a single person

Substitutes 'but' with 'however' and 'man' with 'person' for broader applicability.

still, just one guy

Uses 'still' instead of 'but' and 'guy' as a more informal synonym for 'man'.

nonetheless, only a man

Replaces 'but' with 'nonetheless', maintaining the focus on a male individual.

even so, one male alone

Emphasizes solitude and maleness.

despite everything, a lone man

Highlights the contrast with surrounding circumstances.

in spite of all, just a single male

More emphatic version using 'in spite of all' and specifying 'male'.

nevertheless, a solitary figure

Replaces 'man' with the more evocative 'solitary figure'.

yet uniquely, a man only

Emphasizes the uniqueness of that single man.

conversely, a sole male being

More formal and philosophical alternative.

FAQs

How can I use "but one man" in a sentence?

Use "but one man" to emphasize a single individual's unique action or characteristic in contrast to a group or prevailing circumstance. For example, "Everyone supported the proposal, "but one man" raised concerns about its feasibility."

What can I say instead of "but one man"?

You can use alternatives like "yet only one individual", "however a single person", or "still just one guy" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it always necessary to include "but" before "one man"?

The "but" is crucial because it sets up a contrast with something previously mentioned or implied. Without it, the sentence loses its comparative emphasis. Omitting it changes the meaning to simply stating there is one man.

What's the difference between "but one man" and "only one man"?

"But one man" implies a contrast or exception, while "only one man" simply states the quantity. The former emphasizes the individual's difference, the latter emphasizes the scarcity or limitation.