mainly though

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mainly though" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting point or to clarify that the main focus is on a particular aspect, often following a statement that may suggest otherwise. Example: "The project was successful, mainly though due to the team's hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mainly, though, real life intruded.

The New York Times - Arts

Mainly, though, the choreography suggests passivity.

The New York Times - Arts

Mainly though, I think anything's possible.

Independent

Mainly, though, we talked about her writing.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mainly, though, I was a feature writer.

The New York Times

Mainly, though, he trusted his instincts.

The New York Times

Mainly though, he was just feeling relieved.

The Guardian - Sport

Mainly, though, this tribute is lavishly orchestrated.

The Guardian - Music

Mainly, though, it's the short answer.

The Guardian - Film

Mainly, though, we enjoyed the solitude of the place.

The New York Times - Travel

Mainly, though, Mr. Obama needs to make his plan bigger.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mainly though" to introduce the most important reason or aspect after mentioning other contributing factors. This helps to focus the reader's attention on the key point.

Common error

Avoid using "mainly though" when the preceding information is insignificant. The phrase works best when contrasting a minor detail with a more critical one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mainly though" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, connecting two clauses or ideas. It serves to introduce a contrasting element while simultaneously highlighting its primary importance, similar to examples analyzed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mainly though" is a grammatically sound and frequently used conjunctive phrase that helps to introduce a key point, often in contrast to preceding information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence across various sources, particularly in news and media. When writing, remember to use this phrase to spotlight the most important element of your discussion, ensuring that the contrast is meaningful and that the emphasized point is truly central.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primarily however

More formal alternative. "Primarily" emphasizes the importance more strongly than "mainly", while "however" provides a more direct contrast.

primarily even so

Similar to "primarily however", but with "even so" adding a sense of unexpectedness or surprise.

chiefly yet

"Chiefly" highlights the principal aspect. "Yet" introduces a contrast, though it's less common in modern usage than "though".

mainly in spite of that

Adds emphasis to the contrast by using "in spite of that"

chiefly despite this

Similar to "chiefly yet", but "despite this" directly acknowledges the preceding statement.

mostly nevertheless

"Mostly" indicates the largest part or extent. "Nevertheless" offers a stronger sense of concession than "though".

mostly all the same

Offers a concession, implying that something remains unchanged "all the same".

largely but

"Largely" suggests something is true to a great extent. "But" provides a simple contrast.

largely nonetheless

More formal than "largely but", with "nonetheless" conveying a stronger sense of contrast.

principally still

"Principally" points to the main factor or reason. "Still" indicates that something continues to be true despite other factors.

FAQs

How can I use "mainly though" in a sentence?

Use "mainly though" to introduce a primary reason, condition, or outcome that outweighs other factors. For example: "The project faced several challenges, mainly though, the lack of funding."

What are some alternatives to using "mainly though"?

You can use alternatives like "primarily however", "chiefly yet", or "mostly nevertheless", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it more appropriate to use "mainly though" in formal or informal writing?

"Mainly though" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, although more formal alternatives like "primarily however" may be preferred in highly academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "mainly though" and "but mainly"?

"Mainly though" typically introduces a contrasting point that is also the most important one. "But mainly" simply emphasizes that the main point is coming, without necessarily contrasting it with something else.