but then for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but then for" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in a context where you are contrasting two ideas or situations, but it is better to rephrase for clarity. Example: "I wanted to go to the party, but then for some reason, I changed my mind."

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But then, for Davis, so is style.

The New York Times - Books

But then, for some reason, he wasn't.

The New York Times - Arts

But then for other recipes I'm using a frying pan.

Cornell University

But then for Guardiola, beating Arsenal is nothing new.

Independent

But then, for him, the mystery's the thing.

The Washington Post

But then, for what it is, it functions very well.

The Guardian - Tech

But then, for Ms. Ellner, a fashion blogger, the stakes were just as high.

The New York Times

But then, for all the artist's labors, it wasn't his house.

The New York Times

But then, for Yankees fans, a disappointing reality may set in.

The New York Times - Sports

But then, for most of the world, Bruno has even less value.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But then, for several days, she heard nothing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "but then for" with a more concise alternative like "however" or "yet" to improve sentence flow and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "but then for" excessively in formal contexts. Opt for alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but then for" functions as a conjunctional phrase, introducing a contrasting element or a qualification to a preceding statement. It signals a shift in perspective or a surprising outcome, similar to how a basic conjunction would be used. Ludwig shows its use in diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but then for" serves as a conjunctional phrase to introduce a contrast or qualification. While frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, it's worth noting that Ludwig AI suggests that the phrase isn't always the most elegant option, so you might want to improve clarity using alternatives. Ultimately, "but then for" is acceptable and common, but careful consideration of alternative phrasing can enhance the precision and style of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, for

Replaces "but then" with "however", providing a slightly more formal tone.

yet, for

Substitutes "but then" with "yet", emphasizing the contrast.

still, for

Uses "still" instead of "but then", indicating a continuing state despite the contrast.

nonetheless, for

Replaces "but then" with "nonetheless", offering a more formal and emphatic contrast.

nevertheless, for

Similar to "nonetheless", providing a strong contrast with a formal tone.

but, in turn, for

Adds "in turn" to emphasize a sequential contrast.

though, for

Uses "though" to introduce a contrasting clause.

yet again, for

Implies a repeated contrast or exception.

despite that, for

Highlights a situation that exists regardless of a previous statement.

on the other hand, for

Introduces a contrasting point of view or consideration.

FAQs

What does "but then for" mean?

The phrase "but then for" is used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement, often implying a shift in perspective or outcome. It functions similarly to "however" or "yet".

How can I use "but then for" in a sentence?

You can use "but then for" to connect two contrasting ideas. For example: "I expected sunshine, "however", for the entire trip, it rained every day".

What can I say instead of "but then for"?

Alternatives include "however", "yet", "still", or "nevertheless", depending on the desired nuance and formality.

Is "but then for" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "but then for" can sometimes sound awkward or redundant. Consider whether a simpler conjunction like "but" or "however" would be clearer.