but that was

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but that was" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting statement or to reflect on a past situation or event. Example: "I thought I had everything under control, but that was before the unexpected challenges arose."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But that was hogwash.

The Economist

"But that was bungled".

The New York Times

But that was me.

The New York Times - Arts

But that was nothing.

Forbes

"But that was rare.

The New Yorker

"But that was O.K".

The New York Times - Sports

But that was Carlebach.

The New York Times

But that was later.

The New York Times

But that was trivia.

The New Yorker

"But that was before.

The New York Times

But that was fine.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but that was" to smoothly transition to a contrasting point, ensuring clarity and coherence in your writing. For example, "I thought I understood the instructions, "but that was" before I encountered the actual problem."

Common error

Avoid using "but that was" as a generic filler. Ensure that it introduces a genuine contrast or reflection relevant to the preceding statement. Vague usage can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but that was" functions as a transitional phrase, typically used to introduce a contrasting statement or a shift in perspective from a previous idea or situation. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase is commonly used in English writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but that was" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to introduce a contrast or shift in perspective. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, predominantly appearing in News & Media. While its frequency is high, ensure it serves a genuine purpose, adding clarity to your writing. When the situation calls for it, consider using alternatives for better precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that being said, it was

Introduces a contrasting point after acknowledging a previous statement.

in spite of that, it was

Emphasizes the contrast despite the previous information.

despite all that, it was

Highlights the contrast despite the accumulation of previous factors.

however that happened

Emphasizes the contrast and the completion of a past event.

regardless, it happened

Downplays the significance of the previous statement.

still that came to pass

Suggests that the event happened despite potential obstacles.

yet that occurred

Adds a sense of surprise or unexpectedness to the contrast.

even so that transpired

Similar to "yet", it conveys a sense of surprise or defiance.

nonetheless that existed

Highlights the existence of a past condition despite the current contrast.

that notwithstanding, it was

Formally acknowledges the prior point before contrasting it.

FAQs

How can I use "but that was" in a sentence?

Use "but that was" to introduce a contrast or a realization about a past event. For instance, "I believed in the project, "but that was" before the budget cuts".

What are some alternatives to "but that was"?

Alternatives include phrases like "however, that was", "yet, that was", or "that being said, it was". Choose the alternative that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but"?

Starting a sentence with "but" is grammatically acceptable, especially in informal writing, for emphasis or to create a conversational tone. "But that was then, and this is now".

What's the difference between "but that was" and "but this is"?

"But that was" refers to a past situation, while "but this is" introduces a present contrast. "But that was the old strategy; but this is our new approach".