but one rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but one rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that there is only a single rule or guideline to follow in a particular context. Example: "In this game, there is but one rule: always play fair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"If I have but one rule, it's that critics shouldn't opine on subjects they know nothing about, or use the word 'opine.' " From "I Really Do Hate Top-Ten Lists," by Emily Nussbaum.

The New Yorker

Quite early on, my parents taught me that there was but one rule for going to the theater: silence is golden.

TechCrunch

But one rule holds true across the board: One race doesn't put hands on an inmate of another race, even if the con in question is a pedophile.

Vice

But one rule that was established for financial reasons hasn't changed.

The New York Times - Arts

But one rule is certain, he asserted: "If you don't satisfy the viewer, you have nothing to offer".

The New York Times

"What are the rules?" He wasn't sure, they had changed so many times, but one rule was he had to tell her in advance when he was going out with someone new, and then they discussed it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

After the party created a Unity Reform Commission to revisit its primary rules, Vickers attended three of its meetings and all but one Rules and Bylaws Committee meeting.

The Washington Post

But one ruled over by James Palumbo might be more so.

Vice

He follows it with daring, persistence, joy, with scepticism and wit – but the one rule is that the only nose he will follow is his own.

The Guardian

Pull buoys, hand paddles and even flippers were allowed, but the one rule was that you had to finish the race with every piece of equipment you started with.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But my one rule is, if you are unruly - I don't care if you're an 80-year-old woman or a four-month-old puppy - you're leaving.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but one rule", ensure the context clearly establishes other potential considerations or complexities to make the singular rule stand out effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "but one rule" when you actually mean there's an exception to a different rule. Ensure it genuinely represents the only rule that applies in the given scenario, not a deviation from another one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but one rule" functions as an emphatic statement, highlighting the existence of a single, crucial guideline. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically sound and provides real-world examples showcasing its application in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but one rule" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the singularity of a guiding principle. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and showcases its diverse applications, primarily within news and media. While its tone is generally neutral, the phrase can add a touch of formality or emphasis. When using "but one rule", ensure clarity by contrasting it with potential complexities and avoid mistaking it for an exception to another rule. Effective alternatives include "only one regulation" or "a single principle". By understanding its nuances, you can confidently employ "but one rule" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one and only rule

Adds emphasis to the uniqueness of the rule.

simply one rule

Adds the adverb 'simply' to emphasize the straightforward nature of having only one rule.

just a single rule

Combines 'just' and 'single' for increased emphasis on the singularity.

merely one rule

Uses 'merely' to downplay the significance or complexity, highlighting the singularity.

only one regulation

Replaces 'rule' with 'regulation', implying a more formal guideline.

just one guideline

Uses 'guideline' instead of 'rule', suggesting a less strict recommendation.

the solitary rule

Replaces "only" with "solitary", highlighting the isolated nature of the rule.

a single principle

Emphasizes the singularity of the guiding idea, using 'principle' for a more fundamental concept.

sole requirement

Highlights that only one thing is necessary or demanded.

the only provision

Substitutes 'rule' with 'provision', often used in legal or contractual contexts.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "but one rule" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "only one regulation", "a single principle", or "the "sole requirement"".

Is "but one rule" grammatically correct?

Yes, "but one rule" is grammatically correct, although it can sound slightly archaic or literary. It's used to emphasize that there is only one rule or guideline that applies.

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

"But one rule" and "only one rule" are very similar in meaning. "But one rule" may sound slightly more emphatic or formal, while "only one rule" is more common in everyday speech.

How do I emphasize the importance of "but one rule" in my writing?

To emphasize its importance, clearly contrast the rule with other potential considerations or complexities. You can also use adverbs like "simply" or "merely" to further highlight its singularity, as in "simply one rule".