but ultimately

USAGE SUMMARY

'but ultimately' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce a statement that summarizes a preceding thought or to emphasize the final outcome of something. For example: While I was considering my options, I was hesitant to make a decision, but ultimately, I decided to take the job.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But ultimately, you weren't".

The New York Times - Sports

But ultimately profit is king.

The New York Times

But ultimately fanatics devour themselves.

The Economist

But ultimately, the truth prevails.

The New York Times

But, ultimately, who cares?

The Guardian - Books

But, ultimately, he didn't.

The New Yorker

But, ultimately, he loses.

The Guardian - Music

But ultimately, what's new?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Harsh, but ultimately salutary.

The Guardian - Books

But, ultimately, I was a failure.

The New York Times - Sports

But, ultimately, this is their fight.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but ultimately" to introduce the most important or decisive factor after presenting other considerations. It helps to create a sense of finality and clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but ultimately" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but ultimately" functions as a conjunctive adverb, connecting contrasting ideas while emphasizing the final and most significant outcome. As Ludwig AI points out, it introduces a statement that summarizes a preceding thought.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but ultimately" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a final or decisive point. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively summarizes preceding thoughts. Its prevalence in news and media sources indicates its suitability for neutral and formal writing, although it's versatile enough for everyday conversation. When writing, be mindful of overuse and consider alternatives like "in the end" or "eventually" to maintain writing dynamism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the end

Emphasizes the final result after a period of time or process.

eventually

Highlights that something happens after some delay or difficulty.

at the end of the day

Stresses what is most important despite other considerations.

when all is said and done

Implies that after everything has been considered, the following is the conclusion.

in the final analysis

Suggests a thorough examination leading to a concluding statement.

after all is said

Similar to "when all is said and done", focusing on the final conclusion.

as a last resort

Indicates something done as a final option when others have failed.

taking everything into consideration

Emphasizes that the conclusion is reached after careful thought.

when push comes to shove

Highlights the action taken when a critical decision must be made.

all things considered

Implies that the conclusion is drawn after weighing all relevant factors.

FAQs

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

"But ultimately" is used to introduce a concluding or decisive point after considering other factors. For example, "We faced many challenges, but ultimately, we succeeded".

What phrases are similar to "but ultimately"?

Alternatives include "in the end", "eventually", or "at the end of the day". These phrases also indicate a final outcome or conclusion.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "but ultimately"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but ultimately". The "but" acts as a conjunction, and "ultimately" modifies the statement that follows.

What is the difference between "but ultimately" and "however"?

"However" introduces a contrasting point, while "but ultimately" introduces a final, decisive point. You might use "however" to present a challenge, "but ultimately", focus on the final outcome.