but this is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but this is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting statement or to clarify a point in a discussion. Example: "I understand your concerns about the project, but this is the best solution we have at the moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But this is insufficient.

The New York Times - Arts

But this is me".

The New York Times

But this is bluff.

The Economist

But this is necessary".

The New York Times

But this is home".

The New Yorker

But this is messy.

The New Yorker

But this is worse.

The New York Times

But this is it.

The New York Times

But this is rare.

Independent

But this is changing.

The New York Times

But this is America!

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but this is" to introduce a contrasting point or a clarification that directly challenges or modifies a previous statement. This helps to create a nuanced and balanced argument.

Common error

Avoid starting too many consecutive sentences with "But this is", as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "However, this is" or restructuring the sentence to integrate the contrasting idea more smoothly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but this is" functions primarily as a transitional phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas or statements. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples, where it often introduces a clarification or a counterpoint to a previous assertion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but this is" serves as a versatile transitional element, primarily used to introduce contrasting ideas or clarifications. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially in news and media contexts. While adaptable across various registers, it maintains a neutral tone. To enhance writing, it's recommended to use "but this is" judiciously to avoid repetition, and to consider synonyms such as "however, this is" for added formality. This phrase is a valuable tool for creating nuanced arguments and balanced perspectives in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

However, this is

Replaces the conjunction "but" with "however", maintaining a formal tone while introducing a contrast.

Yet, this is

Offers a slightly more concise and direct way to express the contrast, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Nonetheless, this is

Indicates that the following statement is not affected by the previous one, conveying a sense of resilience.

Nevertheless, this is

Emphasizes the contrast more strongly than "but", suggesting that the following statement holds despite what was previously said.

Still, this is

Implies that the current statement is true despite a previous expectation or condition.

Despite this, this is

Similar to "in spite of this", but slightly more concise and commonly used.

Even so, this is

Suggests that the subsequent point remains valid regardless of the preceding information.

In spite of this, this is

Explicitly acknowledges a preceding obstacle or challenge, yet emphasizes the validity of the current point.

On the other hand, this is

Introduces an alternative perspective or consideration, providing a balanced view.

Conversely, this is

Highlights a complete opposition or reversal of the previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "but this is" in a sentence?

The phrase "but this is" is used to introduce a contrasting statement or to clarify a previous point. For example, "I understand your concerns, but this is the most efficient solution available."

What are some alternatives to "but this is"?

You can use alternatives such as "however, this is", "nevertheless, this is", or "yet, this is", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

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

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but this is", as "but" is a coordinating conjunction that can connect two independent clauses or introduce a contrasting idea. Starting with "but this is" is acceptable and common in both spoken and written English.

What's the difference between "but this is" and "however, this is"?

Both phrases introduce a contrast, but "however, this is" is generally considered more formal than "but this is". The choice between them depends on the desired tone and the context of the writing.