but really so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but really so" is not standard or commonly used in written English.
It may be used in informal contexts to emphasize a point or to express a contradiction, but it lacks clarity and can be confusing. Example: "I thought he was joking, but really so, he was serious about leaving the company."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The Wallabies scored more tries, but really, so what?

The Guardian - Sport

Jews are liberals because of rachmones, often translated as compassion, but really so much more.

The New York Times

You used it a couple times, and it works fine, but, really, so does a knife.

The New Yorker

Sarandon was always a gifted comedian and seems more engaged here than the others, but really, so what?

The Guardian - Film

But really, so far this is nothing more than a big walk-in fridge like you see at the back of your butchers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's all very well for the fashion press to get all squealy over the (quite sweet) dresses and (absurd) pie-crust blouses Chung has knocked out – but, really, so what?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"In Australia it's hot but not really so humid as here".

The New York Times

Hearsay is one of those facts that are "apparently relevant but not really so" (Stephen 1872: 122; see also Stephen 1886: xi).

SEP

But is that really so?

The New York Times

But is this really so?

The New York Times

But is he really so noble?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but really so", consider if a more direct alternative like "but in fact" or "but actually" would provide clearer and more impactful communication.

Common error

Avoid using "but really so" in formal writing. This phrase can sound awkward and less precise than alternatives. Instead, opt for clearer connectors such as "however", "yet", or "nevertheless".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but really so" functions as a conjunctive phrase. It connects two clauses, often to introduce a contrast or emphasize a surprising reality. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage isn't always standard, but it appears in various contexts to add emphasis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but really so" is a conjunctive phrase used to introduce a surprising or contradictory element into a statement. As Ludwig AI reports, it isn't always grammatically correct, its acceptance varies depending on the formality of the context. Its frequency of use is uncommon, mostly found in News & Media contexts. Alternatives such as "but actually" or "but in fact" often provide greater clarity and impact, particularly in formal writing. Therefore, while not strictly incorrect, careful consideration should be given to choosing a more direct and conventional alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but actually so

Replaces "really" with "actually" maintaining similar emphasis and contradiction.

but in reality

Shifts focus to factual contrast rather than direct contradiction.

but effectively

Emphasizes the practical outcome despite initial impressions.

but fundamentally

Highlights a basic, underlying truth contrasting with a superficial view.

but genuinely so

Emphasizes the sincerity or authenticity of the statement.

but truly so

Stresses the veracity of the situation despite possible doubts.

but legitimately

Indicates that the situation is in accordance with the law or with rules.

but technically

Highlights that the situation is in accordance with technical interpretations or understandings.

but empirically

Highlights that the situation is based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.

but effectively then

Emphasizes a conclusion from a more practical point of view than initially assumed.

FAQs

What does "but really so" mean?

The phrase "but really so" is used to emphasize a contradiction or surprising truth. It suggests that something is actually the case, despite initial impressions or expectations. More common alternatives include "but actually" or "but in fact".

How can I use "but really so" in a sentence?

While grammatically acceptable, "but really so" can be replaced with clearer alternatives for better writing. For example, instead of "I thought he was joking, but really so, he was serious", try "I thought he was joking, "but in fact", he was serious."

What are some alternatives to "but really so"?

Alternatives to "but really so" include phrases like "but actually", "but in reality", or "but indeed". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "but really so" formal or informal?

The phrase "but really so" tends to lean towards informal usage. For formal contexts, consider using more precise and commonly accepted alternatives such as "however", "nevertheless", or "in fact" to maintain clarity and professionalism.