but used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was utilized or employed in a particular context or situation. Example: "The tool was effective, but used improperly, it can cause damage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

BUT, used to playing the odds, he has often fared well.

The New York Times

These Hondas aren't "collectibles," but used cars and motorcycles.

The New York Times

But used in a formal context it looks ridiculous.

The Guardian

"I like my books, but used books are a disease.

The New York Times

It talked about everyone but used only initials.

The New York Times

But used properly, they can be a valuable business tool.

The Guardian - Tech

The researchers borrowed this concept, but used different materials.

The New York Times - Science

My mother is retired, but used to be a librarian.

The New Yorker

Tony Blair introduced it, but used to do the same.

The Guardian - Opinion

But used they were, particularly in emerging markets.

The Economist

But used casually or routinely, they stir readers' skepticism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but used", ensure the sentence clearly contrasts the expected outcome or characteristic with the actual application or usage. This highlights nuances and provides clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "but used" when a simple conjunction like "and" or a rephrasing would provide a clearer connection between ideas. Overusing "but" can create unnecessary contrast and weaken the overall flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but used" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas where the second part involves the application or utilization of something. As Ludwig AI shows, it introduces a sense of contrast or qualification to the preceding statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but used" functions as a conjunction phrase to introduce a contrasting element concerning the application or utilization of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Science. While its register remains neutral, it's important to ensure its strategic placement to prevent misplaced emphasis. Alternatives such as "yet employed" or "however utilized" can offer a nuanced variation. By understanding its function and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively utilize "but used" to express contrast and qualification in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet employed

Replaces "used" with a more formal synonym, "employed", while retaining the contrastive function of "but".

however utilized

Substitutes "but" with "however", providing a slightly more formal tone while maintaining the meaning of contrasting application.

nonetheless used

Emphasizes that despite some obstacle or consideration, the item was still used.

though applied

Uses "though" in place of "but" to introduce a contrasting element regarding how something is applied.

but rather implemented

Highlights that something was not just used, but was actively implemented.

however put to use

Uses "put to use" instead of "used" to highlight the action of utilizing something.

while implemented

Replaces "but" with "while", emphasizing a simultaneous contrast in the implementation of something.

even so applied

Offers a different conjunction, "even so", which emphasizes a sense of unexpected continuation despite a contrast.

despite being utilized

Highlights a contrast despite the utilization of something, adding emphasis on the unexpected nature.

yet brought into play

Substitutes "used" with "brought into play", suggesting a more active or strategic application.

FAQs

How can I use "but used" effectively in a sentence?

Use "but used" to introduce a contrasting element related to the way something is applied or utilized. For example, "The tool was effective, "but used" improperly, it can cause damage."

What are some alternatives to "but used"?

Alternatives include phrases like "yet employed", "however utilized", or "though applied", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While traditionally discouraged, starting a sentence with "but" is now widely accepted in modern writing for emphasis or to create a conversational tone. However, it should be used sparingly.

How does the meaning change if I replace "but used" with "and used"?

Replacing "but used" with "and used" changes the relationship from contrast to addition. "But used" implies a contradiction or unexpected outcome, while "and used" simply adds information about the usage.