only to note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only to note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is being mentioned or acknowledged, often in a context where it may not be the main focus. Example: "I attended the meeting, only to note that the agenda had changed unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

This is not meant to suggest that Korey Stringer built his 335-pound frame by illicit means, only to note football's Darwinian ruthlessness.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Wilentz mentioned President Clinton only to note that he was speaking on that day and that the president considered this a potential new age of Progressive politics.

The New York Times

For a sign of how much Christie's is banking on the sale, one has only to note that it is scheduled for the evening of Dec. 13.

The New York Times - Arts

But only to note two remarkably honest people would be partly missing the point; Ms. Miller's trusted presence also provides a lesson.

The New York Times

He mentioned Facebook obliquely, only to note that two of Japan's largest social networks, DeNA and Gree, were not strong performers.

The New York Times

To say that the new tracks get neatly absorbed into his back catalogue is not to slight the album, but only to note that there has always been a kind of timelessness within Prine's work.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

It's only fair to note that Apple fans are ecstatic at the prospect.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is only fair to note that unmingled wretchedness is, like beauty, in the eye and ear of the beholder.

The New York Times

It's only fair to note that the Democrats got themselves into this fix by scheduling their Convention so early.

The New Yorker

As Bailyn must know, I am not the only reviewer to note his relative lack of attention to non-Europeans.

The New York Times - Books

The Alternative Investment Market (Aim) has spawned so many upsets and scandals over the years that it is only proper to note a tale of genuine success.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only to note" to introduce a secondary observation that supports or clarifies a main point without diverting focus.

Common error

Avoid relying on "only to note" as a default transition. Ensure it genuinely adds a minor, clarifying point rather than replacing a more direct or impactful connection between ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only to note" functions as a transitional phrase used to introduce an observation or a secondary point that is often related to the preceding statement. It indicates that something is being acknowledged or mentioned, often without being the primary focus. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only to note" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a secondary, often clarifying, observation. Ludwig AI underscores its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. While suitable for formal and neutral registers, it should be employed thoughtfully to avoid overuse and ensure it genuinely contributes a relevant detail. Alternatives such as "merely to mention" or "simply to observe" can offer slight variations in emphasis. It's worth remembering that "only to note" helps to subtly enhance the narrative without derailing the primary focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only to remark

Replaces "note" with "remark", implying a slightly more formal observation.

only to mention

Substitutes "note" with "mention", suggesting a brief reference.

merely to note

Replaces "only" with "merely", emphasizing the minimal importance of the observation.

simply to note

Uses "simply" instead of "only", highlighting the straightforward nature of the observation.

only to observe

Replaces "note" with "observe", implying a direct sensory perception or a careful examination.

was to note

Changes the structure to indicate that noting was the intended action.

just to note

Emphasizes the brief and simple nature of the observation with "just".

only to state

Replaces "note" with "state", which implies a more formal and direct declaration.

purposes to note

Changes the structure to express the intention or aim of noting something.

in passing to note

Adds "in passing" to indicate a casual or incidental mention.

FAQs

How can I use "only to note" in a sentence?

Use "only to note" to introduce a minor observation or clarification that is related to the main point. For example: "He mentioned the budget cuts, "only to note" that they wouldn't affect the research department."

What phrases can I use instead of "only to note"?

You can use alternatives like "merely to mention", "simply to observe", or "just to point out" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "only to note" in formal writing?

Yes, "only to note" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that it fits the tone and that a more direct phrase isn't more appropriate.

What's the difference between "only to note" and "it's important to note"?

"Only to note" introduces a secondary observation, whereas "it's important to note" emphasizes the significance of the point being made.