but thanks

USAGE SUMMARY

"but thanks" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used in a sentence to express gratitude or appreciation while also acknowledging a contrasting or opposing idea. Example: "I didn't understand the material at first, but thanks to your explanations, I was able to grasp the concepts better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thanks but thanks, Solopipe guys.

Vice

"But thanks".

The New York Times

"But thanks, anyway".

The New Yorker

But thanks for asking".

The New York Times

"But thanks and everything".

The New Yorker

"It's a labyrinth, but thanks.

The New Yorker

But thanks for trying.

The New York Times

But thanks anyway.

The New York Times

But thanks to "Bronx Bombers," I do.

The New York Times

No, but thanks very much.

The New York Times - Travel

But thanks for the pointers.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When following "but thanks" with additional information, use a comma to separate the phrase from the explanation. For example: "But thanks, I already have plans."

Common error

While "but thanks" is versatile, it can sound too informal in certain professional settings. Opt for alternatives like "however, I appreciate your consideration" or "nonetheless, thank you for your time" to maintain a more formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but thanks" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting a statement or situation with an expression of gratitude. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently used. It usually softens a refusal or contrasting statement by adding a polite note of appreciation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

23%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but thanks" is a grammatically correct and very common conjunction phrase used to express gratitude while acknowledging a contrast or declining something politely. According to Ludwig, it functions as a softener in potentially negative situations. It is suitable for a neutral register and is found frequently in news and media as well as academic sources. While there may be instances in formal business settings where more elaborate expressions are appropriate, understanding the context is key to using this phrase effectively. For alternatives, consider "however I appreciate it" or "nonetheless thank you". It is advised to avoid overusing the phrase in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in any case, thanks anyway

Offers a general "thanks anyway" with "in any case" to introduce it.

however, I appreciate it

Replaces "thanks" with a more formal "I appreciate it" while retaining the contrast with "however".

that being said, thank you kindly

Introduces the thanks with "that being said" for a transition, adding "kindly" for politeness.

nonetheless, thank you

Uses "nonetheless" for a stronger contrast and a straightforward "thank you".

still, I'm grateful

Emphasizes gratitude with "grateful" and uses "still" for contrast.

be that as it may, I'm grateful nonetheless

A more elaborate way to express gratitude despite something, using "be that as it may" for contrast.

even so, I'm thankful

Expresses thankfulness using "even so" to highlight the contrast.

yet, I'm obliged

Uses "yet" for contrast and a more formal "obliged" for gratitude.

despite that, cheers

Employs "despite that" for contrast and a casual "cheers" for thanks.

regardless, much obliged

Combines "regardless" for strong contrast with a slightly old-fashioned "much obliged".

FAQs

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

"But thanks" is used to express gratitude while acknowledging a contrasting situation or declining an offer. For example, "I'm all set, "but thanks" for offering to help."

What are some alternatives to saying "but thanks"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "however I appreciate it", "nonetheless thank you", or "still I'm grateful" to express a similar sentiment.

Is it appropriate to use "but thanks" in a formal email?

While "but thanks" is generally acceptable, it might be too casual for very formal communications. Consider using more formal alternatives like "however I appreciate your consideration" in such cases.

What's the difference between "but thanks" and "thanks anyway"?

"But thanks" implies a contrast with something previously stated or offered, while "thanks anyway" is a more general expression of gratitude when declining something. "But thanks" is often followed by an explanation.