usually but not

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "usually but not" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate an exception or deviation from a general statement or rule. Example: I usually go for a morning run, but not when it's raining outside.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Usually, but not always, he will survive.

The New York Times

Slavery was usually, but not always, involuntary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They're usually, but not always, right.

The Guardian

The single sensor is usually, but not always, a thermostat.

Fundamentals of HVAC Systems

These messages are usually, but not required to be, short.

Columbia University

Usually, but not always, the position is WTM.

Harvard University

A committee's recommendation is usually but not invariably followed.

Britannica

It's usually — but not always — a bad idea.

Harvard Business Review

There were too many anecdotes, usually but not always interesting.

The Economist

(Usually, but not always, there is an English translator).

The New York Times - Food

It felt pointless usually but not in Salvador.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "usually but not", ensure the context clearly establishes the general rule or expectation before introducing the exception. This provides a solid foundation for understanding the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "usually but not" when the exception is as common or more common than the rule. In such cases, it's better to state the reality directly or reframe the rule to better reflect typical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "usually but not" functions as a qualifier, modifying a statement to indicate that it is generally true but admits exceptions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples illustrate its role in hedging assertions across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "usually but not" serves as a crucial qualifier, softening statements and acknowledging exceptions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. It's essential to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring the context clearly establishes the general rule before introducing the exception. Alternatives like "generally, though not always" or "typically, but with exceptions" can be used for variety, but "usually but not" remains a direct and effective way to convey a common occurrence with possible deviations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generally, though not always

Emphasizes the general case more strongly than the exception.

typically, but with exceptions

Highlights the typical scenario before acknowledging the presence of exceptions.

commonly, but not without exception

Similar to "usually but not", but with a slightly more emphatic tone on the exceptions.

more often than not, yet not invariably

A more formal way to express a common occurrence with possible deviations.

frequently, however not exclusively

Highlights the frequency of an event, yet acknowledges that it is not the sole possibility.

in most cases, although not universally

Focuses on the prevalence of a situation while recognizing its non-universal nature.

in general, however it's not always the case

Highlights that the statement represents a broad trend, but may not apply to every situation.

as a rule, but there are exceptions

Clearly states a rule and then explicitly mentions the existence of exceptions.

for the most part, still not always

Acknowledges that something is mostly true, but with the possibility of being false sometimes.

ordinarily, save for some instances

A more sophisticated construction indicating a normal state with specific exceptions.

FAQs

How can I use "usually but not" in a sentence?

Use "usually but not" to indicate that something is generally true, but there are exceptions. For example, "The F.D.A. "usually but not" always follows recommendations of its advisory panels."

What phrases are similar to "usually but not"?

Alternatives include "generally, though not always", "typically, but with exceptions", or "more often than not, yet not invariably".

Is it redundant to say "usually but not always"?

While "usually" implies 'not always', using "usually but not always" can add emphasis or clarity, especially when highlighting the exceptions is important. Whether it's redundant depends on the specific context.

How does "usually but not" differ from "always"?

"Always" indicates a certainty without exception, whereas "usually but not" acknowledges that something is generally true but allows for exceptions. The choice depends on the accuracy and nuance you want to convey.