but overall

USAGE SUMMARY

"but overall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a general statement about the overall outcome of a situation. For example: "The strategy had some difficulties along the way, but overall it was a success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But overall, fantastic.

Independent

But, overall, caution rules.

The Economist

But overall it works.

The New York Times

But overall we were happy.

Independent

"But overall, I'm pleased".

The New York Times

PRESIDENT OBAMA: -- but -- but overall.

The New York Times

But overall religion is unavoidable.

The New York Times - Books

But, overall, he performed well.

The Guardian

"But overall, he ran awesome".

The Guardian - Sport

But overall, deprivation is the key factor.

Independent

But overall the impact was slight.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but overall" to transition from a specific detail or contrasting point to a more general conclusion. It helps to provide a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "but overall" repeatedly within a short paragraph. This can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but overall" functions as a transitional phrase. It connects a contrasting point with a summarizing statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts, as illustrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but overall" serves as a useful transitional phrase to reconcile contrasting information with a general assessment. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media. While versatile, overuse should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "however, in general" or "on the whole" to enhance stylistic variety. As highlighted by the numerous examples, "but overall" effectively signals a balanced perspective by acknowledging specifics before delivering the overall evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, in general

Replaces "but overall" with "however" and "in general", offering a slightly more formal tone.

yet, on the whole

Uses "yet" as a contrast and "on the whole" for summarization, providing a slightly different stylistic choice.

all in all

A concise way to express a summary or final assessment, omitting the contrastive "but".

in summary

Directly indicates a summarizing statement, suitable for formal contexts.

to sum up

Similar to "in summary", this phrase signals a conclusion or synthesis of information.

taking everything into account

A more elaborate way of expressing a comprehensive consideration of various factors before reaching a conclusion.

when all is said and done

An idiomatic phrase suggesting that after all considerations, the following statement holds true.

at the end of the day

A more colloquial expression for summarizing the most important point after considering all aspects.

notwithstanding

A formal term that indicates that despite something, the following statement is true.

considering everything

Highlights a comprehensive evaluation before the final determination, similar to 'taking everything into account'.

FAQs

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

Use "but overall" to introduce a summary or general statement after acknowledging a contrasting point. For instance, "The project faced several challenges, "but overall", it was successful."

What are some alternatives to "but overall"?

Alternatives include "however, in general", "yet, on the whole", or "all in all". Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

Is it redundant to use "but overall"?

While "but" introduces a contrast and "overall" indicates a summary, using them together is not inherently redundant. The phrase "but overall" clarifies that the subsequent statement is a general assessment despite the preceding contrasting detail. However, avoid overuse.

What's the difference between "but overall" and "overall"?

"Overall" introduces a general statement without explicitly acknowledging a contrast. "But overall" acknowledges a previous contrast before presenting a general summary. For example: "The service was slow, "but overall", I enjoyed the meal" versus "Overall, I enjoyed the meal".