but strictly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but strictly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a limitation or a condition that must be adhered to in a statement or argument. Example: "The project is open to all, but strictly for those who meet the qualifications outlined in the guidelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But strictly on limited terms.

The Guardian - Film

Not buddy-buddy, but strictly professional.

The New York Times

Prostitution then was legal, but strictly controlled by the police.

The New York Times - Arts

The effects of colour are brilliant, but strictly limited.

Independent

The ECB has offered valuable but strictly limited help.

The Economist

Midriffs The torso is back, but strictly above the waist.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But the cause is not nature but strictly man-made.

The Guardian - Money

Her parents work, she says, but strictly nine to five and not in their own business.

Independent

But, strictly speaking, facts by themselves provide only the premises of a rational argument.

The New York Times

But strictly speaking I don't know enough to answer that with authority.

The New Yorker

But strictly as a health matter, getting rid of guns is a no-brainer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but strictly", ensure that the limitation or condition is directly relevant to the preceding statement. This maintains logical coherence and enhances the effectiveness of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "but strictly" in casual conversation or informal writing where a more relaxed phrasing would be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your communication sound overly formal or pedantic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but strictly" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces a qualification, limitation, or precise condition that restricts the scope of the preceding statement. Examples demonstrate its use in setting specific terms or boundaries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but strictly" serves as a conjunctive adverbial to introduce limitations or precise conditions, commonly used in formal and neutral registers such as News & Media and Science. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. The examples demonstrate its wide applicability in various contexts, emphasizing its role in adding clarity and preventing misinterpretations by explicitly setting boundaries. When writing, it's best to use it when clarity is paramount, ensuring it remains relevant to the preceding statement and avoiding overuse in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however only

Replaces "strictly" with "only", focusing on the limiting aspect.

but exclusively

Emphasizes the exclusive nature of the condition.

though limited to

Highlights the restricted scope or application.

yet precisely

Stresses accuracy and exactness despite a contrast.

although confined to

Focuses on the constraint or boundary.

while adhering to

Highlights compliance with specific rules or conditions.

nonetheless constrained by

Emphasizes the restrictive influence of specific factors.

even so within certain limits

Implies acceptance of limits despite an initial statement.

notwithstanding specific conditions

Acknowledges constraints while moving forward.

but with rigid adherence to

Emphasizes the necessity of following rules or conditions exactly.

FAQs

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

Use "but strictly" to introduce a specific limitation or condition to a previous statement. For example, "The event is open to everyone, "but strictly" for members only".

What are some alternatives to "but strictly"?

Alternatives include "however only", "but exclusively", or "though limited to", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "but strictly" or "but only"?

Both "but strictly" and "but only" are valid, but "but strictly" implies a more rigid or formal adherence to the condition being stated. Choose the phrase that best matches the tone and context of your writing.

What's the difference between "but strictly" and "however"?

"However" is a general contrast, while "but strictly" introduces a specific restriction or condition. For instance, "I enjoy the work; however, the hours are long" versus "I enjoy the work, "but strictly" during daylight hours".