but operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but operating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a contrast or exception related to the act of operating something, often in a technical or functional context. Example: "The machine is designed for efficiency, but operating it requires specialized training."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But operating income grew 3 percent, to $921 million.

The New York Times

But operating earnings fell sharply to $79 million.

The New York Times

But operating outside on a farm is much harder.

The Economist

But operating the center proved a problem, Ms. Sawyer said.

The New York Times

All four of our acquisitions have similar characteristics — they're well occupied but operating below optimal level.

The New York Times

I stood at the mouth of a carwash, circa 1970, empty but operating.

The New York Times

C4 News is still a very good programme, but operating in a more crowded market.

The Guardian

We are not so much worlds apart, but operating on different planets.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But operating outside the agreement is a key element of this strategy".

The New York Times

CMGI Inc. said first-quarter revenue more than doubled, but operating losses mounted.

The New York Times

But operating costs and an overly optimistic valuation of some contracts erased profits.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but operating", ensure the contrasting element is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. The phrase is most effective when highlighting an exception or unexpected condition within a system or process.

Common error

Avoid using "but operating" if the contrast is vague or non-existent. The phrase implies a direct opposition or unexpected condition, so ensure this is evident to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but operating" functions as a conjunctive phrase, linking two clauses where the second clause presents a contrast or exception to the first. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically sound. The word "but" introduces the contrast, while "operating" functions as a verb in present participle form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but operating" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunctive phrase that introduces a contrast or exception. It appears most commonly in News & Media and Science contexts. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used and clear. While alternatives like "yet functioning" or "however working" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ensure the contrasting element is clear to avoid ambiguity when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet functioning

Replaces "operating" with a direct synonym emphasizing the continuation of function despite a contrast.

however, working

Uses "however" to introduce the contrast more explicitly and replaces "operating" with "working".

though running

Similar to "but operating" but uses "though" for the contrast and "running" as a synonym.

while in service

Focuses on the state of being in use, highlighting that the operation is active.

although operational

Emphasizes the state of being ready for operation, using "although" to introduce the contrast.

nonetheless active

Highlights continued activity despite an implied obstacle, using "nonetheless" for contrast.

still processing

Specifically suggests that a process is ongoing, providing a more specific type of operation.

even when utilized

Emphasizes that the operation occurs during use, clarifying the condition of the operation.

in spite of functioning

Uses a more formal structure to indicate that operation occurs despite a challenge.

despite being employed

Focuses on the fact that something is being used, even if there is a contrasting factor.

FAQs

How can I use "but operating" in a sentence?

Use "but operating" to introduce a contrasting fact about something that is in operation. For example, "The system is efficient, but operating it requires specialized training".

What can I say instead of "but operating"?

Alternatives include "yet functioning", "however working", or "though running", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "but operating" or "and operating"?

"But operating" implies a contrast, while "and operating" suggests continuation or addition. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight a contrast or a sequence of events.

What's the difference between "but operating" and "while operating"?

"But operating" introduces a contrasting point, whereas "while operating" indicates that two things are happening concurrently. For instance, "but operating" focuses on something like, "The machine is old, but operating efficiently.", and "while operating" focuses on the actions happening at the same time, like "While operating the machine, ensure to follow safety protocols".