but where exactly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but where exactly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when seeking clarification about a specific location or detail in a conversation or text. Example: "I understand you want to meet, but where exactly should we go?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But where, exactly, did all that lovely meat come from?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But where exactly?

The New York Times

But where, exactly, is here?

The New York Times

But where, exactly?

The New York Times - Books

But where, exactly, is the murder scene?

The New York Times - Arts

But where exactly will they take us?

The Economist

But where exactly is she?

The New York Times

But where, exactly, is forgiving?

The Guardian - Arts

But where exactly did he stand?

The Guardian - Arts

But where exactly did it land?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Stories equal narrative, but where exactly narrative exists in Storyscapes depends on the project.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but where exactly" to clearly indicate you are seeking a precise location or detail, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

While versatile, "but where exactly" can sound informal in highly formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "however, where in particular" or "yet where precisely" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but where exactly" functions as an interrogative conjunction phrase. It connects a preceding statement with a request for specific clarification of location. Ludwig shows that is commonly used in questions seeking precise details.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but where exactly" serves as a conjunction phrase used to request specific location details, often contrasting a previous statement. It maintains a neutral register, leaning slightly informal for scholarly contexts, and appears frequently in news and media sources, as confirmed by Ludwig. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. When precision is needed, "but where exactly" effectively prompts for exactness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but at which precise location

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the specific location being questioned.

but in what specific place

This alternative highlights the particular place in question.

but which exact spot

This alternative focuses on a very precise location or point.

however, where in particular

This alternative adds a contrastive element, emphasizing a specific location.

yet where precisely

This alternative uses a more formal term ('precisely') to inquire about the exact location.

though where specifically

This option adds a note of contrast while asking for the specific location.

but to what precise area

This alternative broadens the scope to an area rather than a specific point.

but on what precise spot

This alternative is more emphatic about finding a spot.

but what is the exact location

This alternative is more direct and formal.

but at what exact coordinates

This alternative is suitable when referring to a geographical point.

FAQs

How can I use "but where exactly" in a sentence?

The phrase "but where exactly" is typically used to ask for clarification regarding a location or specific point. For example: "I know the meeting is this week, but where exactly should I go?"

What phrases are similar to "but where exactly"?

You can use alternatives like "but at which precise location", "but in what specific place", or "yet where precisely" depending on the context.

Is "but where exactly" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "but where exactly" leans towards informal. In formal contexts, consider options like "however where in particular" or "yet where precisely".

When should I use "but where exactly" versus "where exactly"?

"But where exactly" is best when contrasting a previous statement or expectation. "Where exactly" is suitable when simply seeking a specific location without prior context.