but which is

USAGE SUMMARY

"but which is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to contrast one thing with another. Example: I love the city, but which is often quite noisy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But which is best?

The New York Times - Food

But which is the real self?

The New Yorker

But which is which?

Princeton University

But which is better?

The Guardian - Music

But which is real?

The Guardian - Arts

But which is more effective?

The Washington Post

But which is more accessible?

MIT Technology Review

But which is the hugest?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But which is best (9)?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

But which was real?

The New York Times

But which was worth your time?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but which is" to introduce a clarifying question that contrasts two or more options. This helps to guide the reader towards a more nuanced understanding of the topic.

Common error

Avoid using "but which is" in very simple sentences where a direct question would be clearer. For example, instead of saying 'This is good, but which is better?', it's better to ask 'Which is better?'

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but which is" functions as a conjunctive interrogative phrase. It connects a preceding statement with a contrasting question. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is often used to introduce a comparison or choice between different aspects or options.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but which is" serves as a conjunctive interrogative, effectively introducing a contrasting question. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts like news, science, and business. While versatile, it's best suited for nuanced comparisons rather than simple sentences. Alternatives such as "however which applies" or "though what distinguishes" can provide variety. Mastering its usage enhances clarity and sophistication in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet which remains

Replaces 'but' with 'yet' and rephrases the verb for a slightly different emphasis on the continuing state.

though what distinguishes

Uses 'though' instead of 'but' and focuses on 'distinguishes' to highlight the difference.

however which applies

Substitutes 'but' with 'however' and uses 'applies' to alter the context slightly.

conversely what differentiates

Replaces 'but' with 'conversely' to emphasize opposition and uses 'differentiates' for precision.

in contrast what sets apart

Emphasizes contrast by using 'in contrast' and focuses on 'sets apart' to show unique qualities.

nonetheless what varies

Substitutes 'but' with 'nonetheless' and uses 'varies' to indicate differences.

regardless what differs

Replaces 'but' with 'regardless' and uses 'differs' to focus on distinctions.

despite that what contrasts

Uses 'despite that' to show contradiction and 'contrasts' to highlight opposing elements.

even so what diverges

Replaces 'but' with 'even so' to show concession and uses 'diverges' to indicate deviation.

still what distinguishes it

Substitutes 'but' with 'still' to indicate continuation with a contrast, and focuses on what makes it unique

FAQs

How do I use "but which is" in a sentence?

Use "but which is" to introduce a question that contrasts different aspects or choices within a larger statement. For example, 'The plan has merits, but which is the most effective strategy?'

What can I say instead of "but which is"?

Alternatives include "however which applies", "yet which remains", or "though what distinguishes" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to use "but which is" when contrasting two options?

No, it's not always necessary. Simpler constructions like 'Which is better?' or 'What's the difference?' may suffice in many cases. Use "but which is" when you want to introduce a more complex or nuanced comparison.

What's the difference between "but which is" and "and which is"?

"But which is" implies a contrast or alternative, while "and which is" suggests an addition or continuation. For example, "This is good, but which is better?" contrasts options, while "This is good, and which is also available" adds information.