but so often

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but so often" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate frequency or occurrence, often in contrast to a previous statement. Example: "I enjoy going to the beach, but so often the weather doesn't cooperate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But so often, it never takes place.

The New York Times

But so often money represents significance".

The Guardian - Sport

And it should be simple, but so often it's not.

The Guardian

Continuing the medical management this way is fundamental, but so often it doesn't happen".

The New York Times

"But so often the best-practice sharing that happens is at such a surface level".

The New York Times

The raw talent is there but, so often, his decision-making has been poor.

The Guardian - Sport

But so often, in conversation, or when we're walking somewhere, we're so aware of our place.

The New York Times - Arts

But so often in abuse cases, trying to guess the right intervention is a hazardous game.

The New York Times

But so often the market doesn't want us to see free, obvious, practical solutions.

The Guardian - Opinion

unacceptable: Such a feeble, euphemistic little word, but so often trotted out.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

For the job seeker, due diligence on an employment offer is critical--but so often overlooked!

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but so often" to introduce a contrasting element that frequently occurs, creating a nuanced perspective.

Common error

While "but so often" is acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "however frequently" or "nevertheless, often" in academic papers or business reports.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but so often" functions as an adverbial conjunction, connecting two contrasting ideas while emphasizing the frequency of the latter. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but so often" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces a contrast while emphasizing the recurring nature of the latter point. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight challenges or unexpected realities. While acceptable across various registers, formal alternatives may enhance suitability in academic or business writing. When using this phrase, ensure it introduces a genuine contrast that frequently occurs, adding depth and nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but as it very often happens

Adds a slight emphasis on the common nature of an occurrence.

though very frequently

Similar to "but so often", focusing on frequency despite an opposing element.

yet quite frequently

Highlights frequency while introducing a sense of surprise or contrast.

however frequently

Emphasizes the frequency of an event despite a contrasting factor.

although quite commonly

Indicates a common occurrence despite an implied or stated contrast.

on many occasions, however

Indicates frequent occurrences but introduces a contrast or qualification.

nonetheless, often

Highlights that something happens often, despite what might be expected.

in spite of this, frequently

Emphasizes the frequency of an event despite a preceding statement.

even so, frequently

Suggests frequency despite a potential obstacle or contrasting factor.

despite everything, frequently

Highlights that an event occurs frequently even when faced with many challenges.

FAQs

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

"But so often" is used to introduce a contrasting idea that happens frequently, such as, "I plan to exercise daily, but so often I get too busy with work".

What are some alternatives to "but so often"?

You can use alternatives such as "however frequently", "yet quite frequently", or "though very frequently" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "but so often" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "but so often" may sound informal in certain contexts. Consider using alternatives like "nevertheless often" or "however frequently" in formal writing.

What is the difference between "but so often" and "but often"?

"But so often" emphasizes the frequency of the contrasting situation more strongly than simply saying "but often".