but when

USAGE SUMMARY

"but when" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a time when something happens in contrast to another time. For example: "I enjoy getting up early, but when I have a lot of work to do, I'll stay up late."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Use "but" when addressing their wishes.

WikiHow

But when losses abound?

The New York Times

But when was this?

The Economist

But when I count?

The New York Times

"But when the towers fell".

The New Yorker

But when I think harder. . .

The New York Times - Books

But when in the winter?

The New York Times - Sports

It's not if, but when".

The Guardian - Sport

But when had it happened?

The New Yorker

But when did it start?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Surely-but when?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but when" to introduce a contrasting situation linked to a specific point in time. This helps to create nuance and complexity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but when" to connect two simple sentences where a single conjunction like "but" or "and" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but when" functions as a conjunction, introducing a contrasting element that is specifically tied to a point in time. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to introduce a time when something happens, contrasting with another time.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but when" serves as a conjunction introducing a temporal contrast. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Encyclopedias. While versatile, avoid overuse in simple sentences to maintain clarity. Related phrases like "yet when" and "however when" offer alternatives, and understanding its function prevents common errors. Remember, use "but when" to add depth to your writing by specifying contrasting circumstances tied to time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet when

Replaces "but" with "yet", emphasizing a contrast or concession related to time.

however when

Substitutes "but" with "however", providing a more formal contrast about timing.

although when

Replaces "but" with "although", introducing a subordinate clause indicating a contrast in time or circumstance.

though when

Similar to "although when", but less formal.

conversely when

Replaces "but" with "conversely", offering a stronger contrast related to a specific time.

on the other hand when

Offers a contrasting viewpoint related to a specific time.

in contrast when

Highlights a direct opposition related to time.

while when

Introduces a clause indicating something happening at the same time with a contrast.

whereas when

Replaces "but" with "whereas", highlighting a difference between two times or situations.

even so when

Indicates a contrast despite what has just been mentioned related to a time.

FAQs

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

Use "but when" to introduce a situation that contrasts with a previous statement, specifically focusing on a temporal aspect. For example, "I enjoy exercising daily, but when it rains, I prefer to stay indoors."

What are some alternatives to using "but when"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "yet when", "however when", or "although when" to convey a similar meaning.

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

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence with "but when" can sometimes sound informal. Consider rephrasing for a more formal tone, or ensuring the contrast is clear.

What is the difference between "but when" and "and when"?

"But when" introduces a contrast related to a specific time, whereas "and when" introduces an additional event occurring at a specific time, without necessarily implying a contrast.