but would be

USAGE SUMMARY

"but would be" can be used in written English.
It is used to express an idea that is contrary to what was initially stated. For example: "I thought the meeting would be tomorrow, but it would be on Thursday instead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Black tie is "optional but would be appreciated".

The Guardian - Film

Justice might be impossible in this world, but would be issued in the next.

The New York Times

She said she hoped the plant would close but would be sorry about local job losses.

The New York Times

These are usually discussed separately, but would be better considered together, for several reasons.

The Economist

(Mrs. Clinton declined, saying the offer was "sweet" but would be "inappropriate").

The New York Times

If Congress did not, work may resume but would be significantly eroded, he said.

The New York Times

They are blooming now in our greenhouse, but would be equally happy on the window ledge.

Independent

They would then be taken in for further questioning, but would be re-admitted to Britain.

The Guardian

Germany is better placed but would be unwilling to act alone.

The Economist

Britain would be "ordered" to take none but would be "invited" to take part voluntarily.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But would-be buyers may be disappointed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but would be" to introduce a contrasting possibility or condition after an initial statement. Ensure the contrast is logical and clear for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "but would be" when a simple past tense is more appropriate. For example, instead of "I thought it would rain, but would be sunny", use "I thought it would rain, but it was sunny".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but would be" functions as a connector introducing a contrasting or qualifying statement. It indicates a condition or possibility that exists in contrast to a previous statement. Ludwig shows this use in many examples, contrasting expectations with actual or potential outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but would be" serves as a connector that introduces a contrast, qualification, or hypothetical scenario. As indicated by Ludwig, it’s grammatically correct and versatile, appearing frequently in both news and scientific writing. Its function is to present a balanced view by acknowledging one point and then introducing a contrasting condition or possibility. While generally neutral, its prevalence in professional and academic sources suggests a suitable formality for such contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the contrast is logical and clear, and avoid incorrect tense usage to maintain clarity in your writing. With its versatility, the phrase can introduce different ideas and nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet it would be

Replaces "but" with "yet", maintaining a contrast but with a slightly more formal tone.

however, it would be

Substitutes "but" with "however", providing a stronger emphasis on the contrast.

though it would be

Replaces "but" with "though", indicating a concession before the main statement.

although it would be

Similar to "though", but with a slightly more formal tone.

even so, it would be

Emphasizes that despite a previous statement, something else is still possible or true.

nonetheless, it would be

A more formal alternative to "even so", highlighting the contrast.

still, it would be

Offers a simpler, more direct way to express the contrast.

it would however be

Inverts the structure slightly to put more emphasis on the verb "be".

it would nevertheless be

A more emphatic and formal way to say "it would still be".

alternatively, it could be

Shifts the modality from "would" to "could", suggesting a slightly lower probability.

FAQs

How can I use "but would be" in a sentence?

Use "but would be" to introduce a contrasting situation that is conditional or hypothetical. For example, "The plan sounds good in theory, but would be difficult to execute in practice."

What are some alternatives to "but would be"?

You can use alternatives like "however, it would be", "yet it would be", or "although it would be" depending on the context.

Is "but would be" formal or informal?

"But would be" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The overall tone of your writing will determine its appropriateness.

What's the difference between "but would be" and "but is"?

"But would be" expresses a hypothetical or conditional contrast, while "but is" states a factual contrast. For example, "The car is expensive, but would be a great investment" (hypothetical) versus "The car is expensive, but is very reliable" (factual).