sorry but

USAGE SUMMARY

"sorry but" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to politely express an objection or refusal. For example, "Sorry but I won't be able to make it to your party this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm sorry, but it's true.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm sorry, but that's wrong.

The New Yorker

I'm sorry, but Jay-Z?

Independent

"I'm sorry, but I don't.

Independent

I'm sorry, but Toyota sucks".

The New York Times

I'm sorry, but that's ridiculous.

The New York Times

I'm sorry, but it is.

The New Yorker

I'm sorry but I do.

Independent

Sorry, but no.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I'm sorry, but no.

The New Yorker

Well, I'm sorry, but that's rubbish.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sorry but" to soften a disagreement or refusal, making your response more considerate.

Common error

Avoid using "sorry but" excessively in a single conversation or piece of writing, as it can make you sound insincere or overly apologetic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sorry but" functions as a discourse marker or conjunction phrase. It prefaces a statement that contradicts, qualifies, or expresses disagreement with a prior statement or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, supporting its utility in expressing polite disagreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sorry but" serves as a conjunction phrase to soften the impact of disagreement or bad news. It is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, its usage is generally neutral, balancing politeness with the necessity of expressing opposing views. It’s important to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives like "I'm afraid that" or "with all due respect however" in appropriate settings. Ludwig's AI analysis highlights its role in facilitating polite communication when delivering unwelcome information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I hate to say it, but

Indicates reluctance to deliver a negative statement.

Much as I'd like to, I can't

Expresses desire to do something but acknowledging inability to do so.

I'm afraid that

More cautious and polite way to introduce bad news or disagreement.

I'm sorry to inform you that

Direct and formal, usually used when conveying bad news.

I wish I could, however

Expresses a wish for a different outcome but acknowledges the current reality.

I regret to say however

More formal and emphasizes the regret more strongly.

Regrettably, though

Similar to 'unfortunately' but conveys a deeper sense of sorrow or regret.

Unfortunately, however

Emphasizes the unfortunate nature of the situation before presenting a contrasting point.

With all due respect, however

Politely indicates disagreement or objection, often used in formal settings.

I apologize, nevertheless

Formal apology followed by a statement that proceeds despite the apology.

FAQs

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

You can use "sorry but" to politely express disagreement or refusal. For instance, "Sorry but I can't make it" or "sorry but I disagree".

What's a more formal alternative to "sorry but"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "I regret to say however", "I'm afraid that", or "with all due respect however".

Is it always necessary to say "sorry" before "but"?

No, it's not always necessary. Saying "sorry" softens the blow of a disagreement, but if the situation doesn't require that level of politeness, you can omit it. In certain contexts, phrases like "however" or "nevertheless" are more appropriate.

What's the difference between "sorry but" and "I'm sorry, but"?

The difference is subtle. "Sorry but" is a quicker, more informal way to express regret before disagreeing. "I'm sorry, but" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the apology a bit more. The choice depends on the context and your desired level of politeness.