yes, but

USAGE SUMMARY

But is a perfectly acceptable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it in any situation where you are expressing agreement with what has been said, but adding an additional point or condition. For example: "We should start the meeting at 10:00am." "Yes, but can we push it back to 10:30 instead?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Arguably yes, but enough?

The Guardian

Small, yes, but sleek.

The New York Times

Funny, yes, but awful.

The New York Times

Legal, yes, but ethical?

The New York Times - Magazine

Don't "yes, but" it.

The Guardian

Salvation yes, but not satisfaction.

The Economist

"Architects yes, but not artists.

The New York Times - Arts

Healthy, yes, but boring.

Forbes

The answer is, "yes, but…".

SEP

Grand, yes, but sensible.

The New York Times

Interesting, yes, but poetry?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "yes, but", ensure that the contrasting point is relevant and logically connected to the initial statement to maintain coherence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "yes, but" merely as a conversational filler. Ensure that the "but" part of the phrase introduces a significant point that adds value to the discussion or argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "yes, but" functions primarily as a conjunction, connecting two contrasting ideas. It indicates agreement with a preceding statement while simultaneously introducing a qualification, reservation, or opposing viewpoint. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples showcasing this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "yes, but" is a common and grammatically correct conjunction used to express agreement followed by a contrasting point. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While its register is generally neutral, writers should ensure that the contrasting point introduced by the "but" adds significant value and avoids overuse. Alternatives like "indeed, however" or "that's true, but" can provide nuanced variations. The phrase effectively communicates qualified acceptance, making it a valuable tool for balanced and nuanced writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's true, but

Directly acknowledges the truth of a statement before presenting a contrasting viewpoint.

you're right, except

Acknowledges the correctness of someone's statement while introducing an exception.

indeed, however

Expresses agreement followed by a contrasting point, similar to "yes, but".

that may be, but

Acknowledges a possibility, while still adding a contrasting condition or reservation.

certainly, yet

Indicates affirmation followed by a contrasting element, mirroring the structure of "yes, but".

point taken, yet

Acknowledges the validity of a point, but introduces a contrasting element.

granted, still

Acknowledges a point before introducing a contrasting or limiting factor.

agreed, nevertheless

Expresses agreement followed by a statement that opposes or contrasts the previous point.

I concur, however

A more formal way to express agreement before introducing a contrasting point.

okay, on the other hand

Expresses acceptance or understanding, followed by a contrasting perspective.

FAQs

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

Use "yes, but" to introduce a contrasting or qualifying point after acknowledging a previous statement. For example, "Yes, the plan is ambitious, "but is it feasible"?"

What are some alternatives to saying "yes, but"?

Alternatives include phrases like "indeed, however", "that's true, but", or "granted, still", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "yes, but"?

While starting a sentence with "yes, but" is grammatically correct and commonly used, consider whether it creates a smooth transition or if rephrasing might improve the flow.

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

"Yes, but" explicitly acknowledges agreement with a previous statement before introducing a contrasting point, whereas "but" simply introduces a contrast without explicit agreement. For example: "That's a good idea, "yes, but it's expensive"" versus "That's a good idea, but it's expensive."