but predominantly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but predominantly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is mainly or primarily the case, while acknowledging that there may be exceptions or other factors involved. Example: "The project focuses on renewable energy sources, but predominantly on solar power."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But predominantly, we're utterly British in our bedroom discretion.

Independent

But predominantly, it was a shabby afternoon without a hint of triumph.

The Guardian - Books

He filled in at a couple other positions but predominantly they looked after him well.

The Guardian - Sport

He added that Hamilton Bradshaw was involved in a number of sectors but predominantly recruitment.

The Guardian

They are played out in all classes of society but predominantly among the bourgeoisie.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's up to the coaches to guide us in the right direction but predominantly it's up to the players to put that into action," Foden stressed.

The Guardian - Sport

I didn't really want to write it as a victim, firstly because I'm not, but predominantly because it wouldn't feel right to write it that way.

The Guardian - Music

This period stood out in the 17 years she spent in weekly rep, all over Britain, but predominantly in Wales, a country she grew to love.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In the four weeks since Sleep School, I've admittedly had a handful of mediocre nights' sleep, but predominantly they've been good, sometimes excellent – and never bad.

The Guardian - Travel

King says the object is toleration and its focus is not just areas with multi-ethnic populations, but predominantly white areas too.

The Guardian

However, many patients may have bilateral CAS (but predominantly on ipsilateral side) [13].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but predominantly" to introduce the most significant or common element while acknowledging other factors. This adds nuance and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but predominantly" in sentences where a simpler alternative like "mainly" or "mostly" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but predominantly" functions as an adverbial conjunction, modifying the verb or clause it introduces. It indicates that while other elements or factors may be present, the statement is primarily true or applicable in the way specified. This usage is confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but predominantly" serves as an effective adverbial conjunction to introduce a primary aspect while acknowledging other, less significant elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. With a neutral register and a very common frequency, it is versatile across various contexts, particularly in science and news media. When aiming for clarity and precision, especially when qualifying statements, "but predominantly" is a reliable choice. Remember to avoid overuse in simple sentences for optimal impact. Consider alternatives like "but mainly" or "but primarily" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but mainly

Replaces "predominantly" with a more common synonym, focusing on the primary aspect.

but primarily

Emphasizes that something is the first in order of importance, closely mirroring "predominantly".

but chiefly

Highlights the most important or influential aspect, similar to "predominantly".

but mostly

Indicates the greater part or extent, offering a slightly less formal alternative.

but largely

Suggests that something is true to a great extent, resembling "predominantly".

but principally

Focuses on the main or fundamental aspect, akin to "predominantly".

but for the most part

Emphasizes the general or usual state of affairs, conveying a similar meaning.

but on the whole

Indicates a general overview or summary, similar to focusing on the predominant aspect.

but in general

Offers a broad perspective, highlighting the most typical or common occurrence.

but above all

Highlights the most important element, though with a stronger emphasis on importance.

FAQs

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

Use "but predominantly" to introduce a primary aspect while acknowledging other elements. For example, "The project focuses on renewable energy sources, "but predominantly" on solar power".

What are some alternatives to "but predominantly"?

You can use alternatives like "but mainly", "but primarily", or "but mostly" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to include "but" when using "predominantly"?

The "but" is used to contrast the primary aspect with other, less significant elements. If there is no need for contrast, "predominantly" alone may be sufficient. It depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "but predominantly" and "but essentially"?

"But predominantly" indicates the main or most common aspect, while "but essentially" suggests the fundamental or crucial nature of something. The former focuses on frequency, the latter on importance.