but yes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but yes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to affirmatively respond to a previous statement or question while also introducing a contrasting idea or nuance. Example: "I wasn't sure if you would agree with the plan, but yes, I think it's a good idea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pinch yourself, but yes indeed.

The Guardian - Opinion

But yes I will.

Huffington Post

But yes.

The New York Times

But yes.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And so, but yes.

Cornell University

But yes, it's possible.

The New York Times

But yes stress affects.

Independent

But yes, perhaps.

The New York Times

But yes it could.

The New York Times

But, yes, the highs.

The Guardian

But yes racism is there.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but yes" to acknowledge a previous statement or question while introducing a nuance, a contrast, or an agreement with reservation. It is most effective when you want to express agreement while also signaling that there's more to consider.

Common error

While "but yes" is acceptable, overuse can make writing sound conversational or uncertain. In formal contexts, opt for alternatives like "however, yes" or "nevertheless, yes" for a more polished and professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "but yes" is to act as a conjunctive phrase, linking a preceding statement or question to an affirmative response that often carries a contrasting element. As Ludwig examples show, it's used to confirm while simultaneously introducing nuance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but yes" functions as a conjunctive phrase that confirms while introducing a subtle contrast or nuance. According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct, and it is frequently found in news, academic, and general contexts. When writing, use "but yes" to acknowledge a statement before adding a reservation. Be mindful of overuse in formal writing, where alternatives like "however, yes" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but indeed

Offers a stronger sense of affirmation than "but yes".

however, yes

More formal and emphasizes the contrast more distinctly.

yet yes

Slightly more literary and less common than "but yes".

still yes

Suggests a sense of continuation despite a potential obstacle.

although yes

Introduces a concessional element more explicitly.

even so, yes

Emphasizes that the affirmation holds despite a preceding condition.

nonetheless, yes

Formal and highlights the contrast with greater emphasis.

nevertheless, yes

Similar to 'nonetheless' but carries a slightly stronger sense of contrast.

that being said, yes

Adds a conversational tone while introducing a contrasting point.

on the other hand, yes

Introduces a completely opposite viewpoint with confirmation.

FAQs

How can I use "but yes" in a sentence?

Use "but yes" to confirm a previous statement while introducing a contrasting element. For example, "I wasn't sure if you'd be available, but yes, I can help you with that."

What are some alternatives to "but yes"?

You can use alternatives like "but indeed", "however, yes", or "nevertheless, yes" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "but yes" grammatically correct?

Yes, "but yes" is grammatically correct and commonly used to express agreement or confirmation with a slight reservation or contrasting point.

What's the difference between "but yes" and "yes, but"?

"But yes" typically acknowledges something before introducing a contrasting point, while "yes, but" emphasizes the agreement before presenting the contrast. The order changes the focus.