but tentatively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but tentatively" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or a cautious approach to a statement or action. Example: "I believe we can proceed with the project, but tentatively, as we still need to finalize the budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The Danish contingent are over the moon, but tentatively so.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But, tentatively, I think Cindy has the edge.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They are now in touch, but tentatively and without much pleasure.

The Guardian

However, their biological mechanism of action has not yet been determined but tentatively ascribed to photoinduced effects on DNA.

Dyes and Pigments

Frustrated but tentatively confident a promise made will be a promise kept, Ms. Beck recently noted that nobody "does this work to get rich".

The New York Times

The court unanimously but tentatively sustained the law's centerpiece, the one critics have called its "show me your papers" provision, leaving the door open to further challenges.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

McCann is hesitant even to speculate without more research, but he tentatively offers two plausible explanations.

The New York Times - Magazine

But, once tentatively envisaged as an independent being, a literature proper to him could also be envisaged.

Encyclopedia Britannica

SOUTHERN AFRICA, once torn apart by war but now tentatively at peace, is enjoying an economic revival.

The Economist

But I tentatively suggest that the modern history of eminent domain in America is a cautionary tale.

The Washington Post

He belonged to no school, but he tentatively explored systems, including serialism, which were fundamentally alien to him.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but tentatively" to introduce a statement or action that you are not entirely sure about or are approaching with caution. This adds nuance and honesty to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but tentatively" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your tone sound overly hesitant or indecisive. Opt for stronger, more confident language when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but tentatively" functions as a conjunction phrase indicating a contrast with a preceding statement while also expressing uncertainty or a lack of full commitment. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and usable. It softens a statement or action with a degree of caution.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but tentatively" is a grammatically sound expression used to introduce a contrasting idea with an element of uncertainty or caution. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is appropriate in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, scientific writing, and encyclopedic content. While "but tentatively" is common and widely understood, alternatives like "yet cautiously" or "with reservations" can provide a slightly different nuance. Remember to avoid overuse to maintain a confident tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet cautiously

Replaces "tentatively" with "cautiously", emphasizing the careful nature of the action or statement.

however cautiously

Similar to "yet cautiously", but uses "however" as the conjunction, adding a slightly more formal tone.

but with reservations

Replaces "tentatively" with "with reservations", highlighting that there are hesitations or doubts.

yet with some hesitation

Expresses a similar meaning using "with some hesitation", which directly indicates a degree of uncertainty.

although uncertainly

This option replaces "but" with "although" to start a subordinate clause and uses the adverb "uncertainly" to convey doubt.

though with uncertainty

Similar to "although uncertainly", it uses "though" and the prepositional phrase "with uncertainty".

but guardedly

Substitutes "tentatively" with "guardedly", suggesting a cautious approach due to potential risks or negative consequences.

yet circumspectly

Uses "circumspectly" to indicate a careful consideration of all circumstances before acting or speaking.

but provisionally

Replaces "tentatively" with "provisionally", implying that the action or decision is not final and subject to change.

however, with a degree of uncertainty

This option expands the phrase to explicitly state the presence of "a degree of uncertainty", offering a more detailed expression of doubt.

FAQs

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

You can use "but tentatively" to express a cautious or uncertain agreement or plan. For example, "I agree with your proposal, "but tentatively", as we need to assess the potential risks first".

What's the difference between "but tentatively" and "but cautiously"?

While both express a degree of reservation, "but cautiously" emphasizes the care taken to avoid danger or mistakes, whereas "but tentatively" focuses more on the uncertainty or lack of commitment. Cautiously implies carefulness, while tentatively implies hesitation.

What are some alternatives to "but tentatively"?

You can use alternatives like "yet cautiously", "with reservations", or "with some hesitation", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to include "but" when expressing tentativeness?

No, the "but" is not always necessary. You can express tentativeness without it, for instance by saying "We will proceed tentatively" or "Tentatively, we will proceed". The "but" adds a contrast with a previous statement or expectation.