another word for but in essay

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What can I use instead of "but" and "however"?

I just noticed I tend to use "but" and 'however" in almost every paragraph.

Examples (all of them are from the same story):

I almost let everything out. But , funny, I didn't. I didn't want him to feel bad. Which made me wonder if maybe I enjoyed punishing myself. But what for? This was the first time we were going to be apart for so long. Two months wasn't a big deal for most people. But for me, it was an endless torture. But as I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad. That we would still see each other on weekends. Li was holding me from behind. I liked to sit like that—feeling his warmth on my back, and his moist breath on my neck. It made me feel protected, at ease. As though nothing in the world could hurt me. However , that day, something disturbed that feeling. I wanted to cry. I wanted to shout at him, tell him that I was already here. However , I knew I couldn't protest. It was my fault, after all. I had come too early, and he probably thought I was still in Nantou.

Is their use justifiable? Or should I use something else instead?

• creative-writing
• word-choice

• Honestly, I don't see the problem with many of the uses in your example. The first example reads well. In the second I would remove the first "but." The third and fourth read fine. –  Chris Commented Jan 19, 2014 at 1:27
• I had a therapist who suggested that, as I talked to her, I replace "but" with "and." It frequently worked! "But" sets up the upcoming statement in opposition to the first, and "and" doesn't do that. (See what I did there?) –  Ken Mohnkern Commented May 11, 2015 at 18:11

6 Answers 6

There are many synonyms to but . For the meaning you are pointing out in your question, some of them would be still, nevertheless, nonetheless, though, although, and yet . You can find these and the ones for the other meanings in any site with synonyms lookup function, such as Thesaurus ("but" synonyms) .

However , it should be noted that it can be counterproductive to sprinkle your story with synonyms of a common word just for the sake of non-repetition. Just as it happens with the word "said": Many people think you should not abuse of "said" synonyms in dialog tags (see The Use and Abuse of Dialogue Tags , for example), because it "draws [the readers'] attention away from the dialogue and yank them out of the story". Same can happen with but . The abundance of random synonyms might rather obstruct the reading experience.

If you want to show two ideas are opposed, there can be workarounds, thinking outside the box. Some times these ideas are not inherently opposed (in your first example, "Funny enough, I didn't"); some other times, the causal relationship can be implied (in your fourth example, just removing it would keep the meaning: "As I stood there..."); and some other times, it can be necessary (the rest of your examples fall in this category, in my opinion).

To finish, a workaround example, one that I don't pretend to be substitutive nor better, just to explain the idea:

I wanted to cry. I wanted to shout at him, tell him that I was already here. As I opened my mouth, I realized I couldn't protest. It was my fault, after all.

But is a conjunction that has a specific place and a specific meaning. It strikes me that your issue isn't so much with overusing the word "but" but* with using repetitive sentence structure. Please note, for instance, that you really, really aren't supposed to start a sentence with a conjunction because the whole point of a conjunction is to link two items together "I like coffee and tea." "I like coffee but I don't like tea." "I would like coffee or tea."

That isn't to say that you can't ever break this rule, but as with all grammatical rules, there are consequences. I think the primary consequence of breaking the "no conjunctions at the beginning of a sentence" rule is that it looks like you or your character finished a thought and then remembered they wanted to add something else. If you use it all the time, well... your viewpoint will sound like they're very, very confused. If that's what you're going for, don't worry about the overuse of "but" at all. If you're looking for normal, free-flowing prose, at least consider grammar.

*Note: I just typed but but.

Honestly, I don't see the problem with many of the uses in your example. The first example reads well. In the second I would remove the first "but." The third and fourth sound fine to my ears.

I second the advice that too much variety is potentially more distracting than the repetition.

Like Chris I don't see a problem and would only have deleted the first "but" in the second text snippet.

You must understand that "but" is something like the 23rd most frequent word in English ( http://www.wordfrequency.info/free.asp?s=y ). It would be uncommon, if it did not appear often.

If you want, you can use this online service to calculate word frequencies for your own text: http://darylkinsman.ca/tools/wordfreq.shtml I just input my last novel and found that "but" was the 23rd most frequent word with 316 instances (of 50038) at 0.6%. If an analysis of your test shows significantly higher percentages (maybe more than 1%), you can start to worry.

What can I use instead of “but” and “however”?

Without further ado, here are the possibilities.

OTOH, on the contrary, otherwise, yet, even though, though ... still, rather, unexpectedly, despite, in spite of, ...

He is a good hire. I love his honesty, but his honesty could lead us into trouble. We should hire him. I love his honesty. On the other hand, his honesty could lead us into trouble.

The new medicine is giving people a lot of hope, but it is dangerous hope as it is not well tested yet. I do not agree with the new medicine that is giving people a lot of hope. On the contrary, I feel it is dangerous as it is not well tested yet.

The govt is not interested in people becoming rich, but they would want you to pay your taxes. The govt is not interested in people becoming rich. Rather, they would want you to pay your taxes.

The sky was clear and the weather was mild, but then it there was a thunderstorm and it started to rain. The sky was clear and the weather was mild. Unexpectedly, there was a thunderstorm and it started to rain.

She was born with debilitating condition, but she was successful in becoming a doctor. Even though she was born with debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor. Though she was born with debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor still. She was born with debilitating condition, yet she was successful in becoming a doctor. She persevered towards her success in becoming a doctor, otherwise she would have wallowed in her congenital debilitating condition. She persevered towards her success in becoming a doctor, despite her congenital debilitating condition. In spite of her being born with a debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor.

In addition to the other good answers, "but ..." is a negation or restriction of the thing or condition it refers to. It "takes away" from it. It also breaks the flow of thought/action (which is fine when it's on purpose.)

Many people use this in speech and writing all the time as a matter of habit, even when it's not really necessary or appropriate. A lot of the time two ideas are just in sequence and could simply be stated or even joined with "and".

Your second example shows both (as possibilities - not as I'm right/you're wrong!)

For me, it was an endless torture. As I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad. For me, it was an endless torture and as I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad.

There's a whole study called Conscious Languaging which teaches people to reduce or eliminate such usages because it can be a form of self sabotage.

On the flip side of this, using "but" can help convey uncertainty, hesitation, low self esteem, or intentional negating of the subject.

Garrison Keillor (in his A Prairie Home Companion radio show) uses this to great effect with his Norwegian bachelor farmers' "Yuh,but ...", where they have a reason why almost anything good won't work out - which serves mainly as a reflection on their state of mind rather than on the subject itself.

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110+ Synonyms for “But” with Examples | Another Word for “But”

When we want to express contrast or qualify a statement, we often rely on the familiar conjunction “but” to bridge our thoughts. However, there are many instances where varying our language can enhance our writing, making it more interesting and nuanced. Understanding synonyms for “but” gives us more tools for expression.

But Synonyms

What Is “But”?

“ But ” is a conjunction primarily used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has been mentioned previously. It is a bridge between two statements that may introduce an exception, an opposing idea, or a contradictory point.

List of Synonyms for But

• Nevertheless
• On the other hand
• Nonetheless
• Despite this
• On the contrary
• In contrast
• Notwithstanding
• Excepting that
• Except for the fact that
• Be that as it may
• Having said that
• At the same time
• In spite of this
• Even though
• Granted that
• Assuming that
• Even assuming that
• In spite of the fact that
• Despite the fact that
• All the same
• For all that
• In any case
• By contrast
• As opposed to
• With regard to
• When it comes to
• Provided that
• Providing that
• Notwithstanding the fact that
• In any event
• In the event that
• Supposing that
• With the exception of
• Not to mention
• To say nothing of
• Consequently
• Accordingly
• That is why
• Which is why
• This is why
• For this reason
• For that reason
• For which reason
• On account of which
• Due to which
• Owing to which
• In light of which
• Given which
• Considering which
• With this in mind
• Bearing this in mind

Types of Synonyms for But

Conjunction synonyms.

• Although : Displays a contrast or exception and is usually more formal.
• However : Indicates a shift in the discussion and often starts a new sentence.
• Nevertheless : Denotes a strong contrast and is typically used in more formal writing.
• On the other hand : Provides a clear-cut distinction between two different points.
• Still : Suggests continuity but also introduces a contrast.
• Though : Similar to “although,” it can be more conversational.
• Yet : Implies that something is so despite the preceding words.

Preposition Synonyms

• Except : Specifies something that is not included in the preceding statement.
• Aside from : Similar to “except,” but can be used to sound less formal.
• Outside of : Sets a boundary, often to exclude something.

Adverb Synonyms

• Merely : Suggests limitation and is often used to reduce the impact of the ensuing statement.
• Just : Used to focus on the main point, usually downplaying the previous information.

Common Synonyms for But

But vs. however.

While  but  is a conjunction used to introduce a contrast or exception,   however  serves a similar purpose but is typically used to start a new clause or sentence. It generally implies a greater contrast or an unexpected turn.

• She wanted to purchase the dress, but it was too expensive.
• The team played well; however , their efforts were not enough to secure a victory.

But vs. Yet

Yet   implies that despite the information presented in the first part of the sentence, the second part holds true or is surprising. The word  but   can be used in a similar fashion, though it doesn’t convey the element of surprise as strongly as  yet .

• The weather forecast predicted rain, but it turned out to be a sunny day.
• The path was steep, yet they reached the top without any trouble.

But vs. Although

Although   is used to introduce a subordinate clause and indicates a contrast with the main clause. It provides a more formal tone than   but  and is followed by a subject and verb.

• The hike was difficult, but the views were worth it.
• Although the task was daunting, they managed to complete it on time.

But vs. Nevertheless

Nevertheless   is an adverb that can be used similarly to  but   to show contrast or contradiction; it suggests that the statement following it is true despite the conditions mentioned in the previous statement. It tends to carry a more formal tone than  but  and is often used in academic or literary contexts.

• The evidence was circumstantial, but the jury found him guilty.
• The road was blocked; nevertheless , they found an alternate route.

Incorporating Synonyms for “But” into Formal Writing

In formal and academic contexts, it’s important for us to diversify our language to enhance clarity and professionalism. Substituting “but” with its formal equivalents can not only enrich our vocabulary but also strengthen the impact of our writing.

Transitioning Between Points

When we aim to transition between points in formal writing, the conjunction “but” often seems too abrupt or informal. To create a smooth and sophisticated flow between contrasting statements, we can use alternatives such as “however,” “nevertheless,” and “yet.” These words should be employed to connect sentences that possess an antithetical relationship, and proper punctuation must accompany them to ensure grammatical accuracy. For instance:

• However,  should be preceded by a semicolon or used to start a new sentence; for example,  She had the qualifications; however, she lacked experience.
• Nevertheless,  often stands at the beginning of a sentence to reinforce a preceding point; for example,  The weather was poor. Nevertheless, the event continued as planned.
• Yet,  can replace “but” within a sentence without altering its meaning; for example,  He is a novice, yet he performs like a professional.

Emphasizing the Contrast

To underscore the contrast between ideas, careful selection of “but” replacements is crucial. Words like “although,” “conversely,” and “on the contrary” serve this purpose effectively, each with their own nuanced use. These terms do more than simply connect thoughts; they add depth to the contrast being highlighted.

• Although,  introduces a subordinate clause highlighting a contradiction; for example,  Although the task was difficult, it was completed on time.
• Conversely,  contrasts two separate ideas or facts, often in a new sentence; for example,  The first proposal was readily accepted. Conversely, the second encountered opposition.
• On the contrary,  directly counters a stated assumption; for example,  It is not a matter of funding; on the contrary, our priorities have shifted.

Highlighting Exceptions

Explaining exceptions in our writing often necessitates a departure from using “but.” Formal synonyms like “except,” “save for,” and “apart from” can elegantly indicate exclusions or deviations from a statement. They can specify the precise nature of exceptions:

• Except,  is used before stating the exception directly; for example,  All committee members agreed, except the chairperson.
• Save for,  similar to “except,” it carves out a specific exclusion; for example,  The entire report was accurate, save for some minor errors.
• Apart from,  denotes a separation from the whole; for example,  The research covers all recent developments, apart from the latest announcement.

Synonyms for But in Different Contexts

Casual conversations.

In everyday speech, we often replace “but” to make our language more varied and relatable. Here are a few alternatives:

• However: We find that adopting a new pet can be quite the commitment, however  we’re excited about it.
• Yet: They’re not the most popular choice, yet  they have a loyal following.

Academic Writing

In academic or formal writing, we aim for more precise language. Some formal synonyms for “but” include:

• Nevertheless: The experiment had limitations, nevertheless  it provided valuable insights.
• Nonetheless: T he theory is widely accepted, nonetheless  further research is required.

Professional Communication

In a business or professional setting, we use synonyms for “but” that convey a neutral or constructive tone:

• Still: We appreciate the feedback, still  we need to consider the budget constraints.
• Although: Our team is small,  although  we’re highly productive .

Literary or Artistic Contexts

Writers and artists often choose synonyms that add depth to their expression:

• Conversely: The character was flawed,  conversely , this made her relatable.
• Instead: He chose to walk the path less traveled  instead  of the easier route.

Expressing Contrast

When we want to highlight a contrast, we might use:

• On the contrary:   I do care about the project,  on the contrary , I believe our approach needs adjustment.
• Conversely: The data seemed inconclusive, conversely , this led to a breakthrough .

Absolute and Near Synonyms of But

Absolute synonyms for but.

Near Synonyms for But

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some informal alternatives to the word ‘but’?

Informal alternatives to ‘but’ include ‘yet’, ‘though’, and ‘however’. In casual speech, phrases like ‘on the other hand’ and ‘still’ also serve a similar contrasting function.

Can you list formal equivalents for the word ‘but’ when starting a sentence?

For a formal tone, ‘however’, ‘nevertheless’, and ‘nonetheless’ are appropriate alternatives to ‘but’ at the beginning of a sentence.

What words can be used in place of ‘but’ for academic writing like IELTS?

In academic contexts such as IELTS, consider using ‘although’, ‘whereas’, or ‘contrary to’ for expressing contrast.

How can I say ‘but’ politely in a conversation?

To be polite, one might use ‘however’, ‘though’, or ‘having said that’ in place of ‘but’ to soften the contrast.

What could I use instead of ‘but then’ in a narrative?

In a narrative, ‘yet’ or ‘still’ can effectively replace ‘but then’ to show a turn of events without interrupting the flow of the story.

Are there any substitutes for the conjunctions ‘and’, ‘but’, or ‘so’?

Other than ‘but’, substitutions for ‘and’ include ‘in addition’ and ‘also’, while ‘therefore’ and ‘consequently’ can replace ‘so’ to link sentences or ideas in both speaking and writing.

• Therefore Synonym
• Despite Synonym
• Although Synonym
• Overall Synonym
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What word can be used in place of "but" in writing or statements [closed]

I frequently write in online forums, mainly with regard to mental health materials and concepts.

I struggle with grammatical correctness and the word but gets inserted throughout a lot of my paragraphs, often repeated within a few lines. Sometimes I use the word yet instead, but (there's that word again) unthinkingly revert back to but .

The word, in the context of the writing, feels juvenile and redundant. So far, I have used yet and though but haven't found any other words to use and even these begin to sound tiresome.

What else is there?

• word-choice

• Also see Structuring sentences without using the word “but” or How commonly is “but” used in sentences? , –  James Waldby - jwpat7 Commented Aug 17, 2012 at 13:58
• I wouldn't worry much about frequent use of a short, common word like "but". Unless you're using it three times in each sentence, every sentence, people are unlikely to notice. Repeated use of less common words can be jarring. Like if you used the word "heretofore" six times in one paragraph, I think readers would find it distracting. But words like "the", "is", "but", etc? Not likely to be noticed, much less a problem. –  Jay Commented Aug 17, 2012 at 14:10

2 Answers 2

http://thesaurus.com/browse/but

Part of Speech: conjuction [sic], preposition Definition: indicating contrast Synonyms: although, however, nevertheless, on the other hand, still, though, yet

I'm sure there are more...

• Well, while I'm trying to figure out and navigate how to correctly use this forum, I'm genuinely stumped by my question being "closed" and referenced as being too basic. I find that rather dismissive. Thanks to those who did try to answer the question, much appreciation. –  USTI Commented Aug 17, 2012 at 13:32

I wouldn't worry too much about your repetition of but . It's common when writing to find your attention being drawn to surface features of your composition such as repetition of words. But your readers are most likely reading you for your meaning , not your choice of words, so the repetition of short functional words like but will go unnoticed.

You can certainly use a thesaurus to find alternatives, but this attempted remedy can end up being more noticeable than the original disease. The overuse of synonyms to avoid repetition was criticized by Henry Fowler under the heading " elegant variation ":

It is the second-rate writers, those intent rather on expressing themselves prettily than on conveying their meaning clearly, & still more those whose notions of style are based on a few misleading rules of thumb, that are chiefly open to the allurements of elegant variation.... The fatal influence ... is the advice given to young writers never to use the same word twice in a sentence—or within 20 lines or other limit.

• Wow, thank you, Andrew and Gareth. Gareth, you know how to validate a person...it's nice to think perhaps I'm not such a 'bore' afterall. Andrew, yes, I've used all of those exchanges as well and putting it into perspective, I think maybe I'm looking more with a critical eye because the subject matter I write about is in a sense, critically observed in its' field - mental health. You guys are great, thank you once again! –  USTI Commented Aug 17, 2012 at 13:36

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Formal synonyms of 'BUT'

Below are three formal and polite equivalents (synonyms) of ' but ' which you can use in your business or professional pieces of writing.

The word 'but' is used to make a contrast between a situation ('it was raining') and what happened or will happen ('I went for a walk'). The word 'but' and its synonyms below are always used in front of the what happened or will happen (e.g. 'but I went for a walk'). This is different to another word used for making a contrast, 'although', which is always used in front of the situation instead (e.g. 'although it was raining').

To see the formal synonyms of 'although', click here .

Is used in the same way as 'but', but it is generally followed by a comma and is normally used (but not always) at the beginning of a sentence to contrast what was stated/said in the previous sentence.

'We were able to identify a problem with a part in the machine. However , when we replaced it, it didn't resolve the problem the machine has had.'

Nevertheless,

Used like 'however'. It can used in both the middle of a sentence (to connect the two parts/clauses) and at the beginning of a sentence to contrast what was stated/said in the previous sentence.

'The heating problems have been resolved in the building, nevertheless the heating will not be turned on until tomorrow morning.'

Nonetheless,

Is used in exactly the same way as 'nevertheless'.

'The heating problems have been resolved in the building, nonetheless the heating will not be turned on until tomorrow morning.'

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Synonyms and antonyms of but in English

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• Writing Tips

Vocabulary Tips: Alternatives to ‘But’ for Academic Writing

3-minute read

• 19th February 2017

You’ll use some terms frequently in your written work . ‘But’ is one of these words: the twenty-second most common word in English, in fact!

Consequently, you shouldn’t worry too much about repetition of ‘but’ in your writing . But if you find yourself using it in every other sentence, you might want to try a few alternatives. How about the following?

Other Conjunctions

‘But’ is a conjunction (i.e. a linking word) used to introduce a contrast.

For example, we might use it in a sentence expressing contrasting opinions about Queen guitarist Brian May:

I like Brian May, but I find his hair ridiculous.

One option to reduce repetition of ‘but’ in writing is to use the word ‘yet’:

I like Brian May, yet I find his hair ridiculous.

‘Yet’ can often replace ‘but’ in a sentence without changing anything else, as both are coordinating conjunctions that can introduce a contrast.

Alternatively, you could use one of these subordinating conjunctions :

• Although (e.g. I like Brian May, although I find his hair ridiculous .)
• Though (e.g. I like Brian May, though I find his hair ridiculous. )
• Even though (e.g. I like Brian May, even though I find his hair ridiculous. )

As subordinating conjunctions, these terms can also be used at the start of a sentence. This isn’t the case with ‘but’, though:

Though I like Brian May, I find his hair ridiculous. – Correct

But   I like Brian May, I find his hair ridiculous. – Incorrect

Other subordinating conjunctions used to introduce a contrast include ‘despite’ and ‘whereas’. If using ‘despite’ in place of ‘but’, you may need to rephrase the sentence slightly. For instance:

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Despite liking Brian May, I find his hair ridiculous.

I like Brian May’s guitar solos, whereas I find his hair ridiculous.

How to Use ‘However’

One common replacement for ‘but’ in academic writing is ‘however’. But we use this adverb to show that a sentence contrasts with something said previously. As such, rather than connecting two parts of a sentence, it should only be used after a semicolon or in a new sentence:

I like Brian May’s guitar solos. However , I find his hair ridiculous.

I like Brian May’s guitar solos; however , I find his hair ridiculous.

‘However’ can be used mid-sentence, separated by commas. Even then, though, you should separate the sentence in which it appears from the one with which it is being contrasted. For instance:

I like Brian May’s guitar solos. I do, however , find his hair ridiculous.

Here, again, the ‘however’ sentence contrasts with the preceding one.

Other Adverbial Alternatives to ‘But’

Other contrasting adverbs and adverbial phrases can be used in similar ways to ‘however’ above. Alternatives include:

• Conversely ( I like Brian May’s guitar solos. Conversely , I find his hair ridiculous. )
• Nevertheless ( I like Brian May; nevertheless , I find his hair ridiculous. )
• In contrast ( I like Brian May’s guitar solos. In contrast , I find his hair ridiculous. )

One popular phrase for introducing a contrast is ‘on the other hand’. In formal writing, though, this should always follow from ‘on the one hand’:

On the one hand , I like Brian May’s music, so I do admire him. On the other hand , his hairstyle is terrifying, so I do worry about him .

And if you’re not sure which terms to use as alternatives to ‘but’ in your writing, having a document proofread by the experts can help.

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noun as in written discourse

Strongest matches

• dissertation

Strong matches

• composition
• disquisition
• explication

noun as in try, attempt

• undertaking

Weak matches

• one's all
• one's level best

verb as in try, attempt

• have a crack
• have a shot
• make a run at
• put to the test
• take a stab at
• take a whack at

Example Sentences

As several of my colleagues commented, the result is good enough that it could pass for an essay written by a first-year undergraduate, and even get a pretty decent grade.

GPT-3 also raises concerns about the future of essay writing in the education system.

This little essay helps focus on self-knowledge in what you’re best at, and how you should prioritize your time.

As Steven Feldstein argues in the opening essay, technonationalism plays a part in the strengthening of other autocracies too.

He’s written a collection of essays on civil engineering life titled Bridginess, and to this day he and Lauren go on “bridge dates,” where they enjoy a meal and admire the view of a nearby span.

I think a certain kind of compelling essay has a piece of that.

The current attack on the Jews,” he wrote in a 1937 essay, “targets not just this people of 15 million but mankind as such.

The impulse to interpret seems to me what makes personal essay writing compelling.

To be honest, I think a lot of good essay writing comes out of that.

Someone recently sent me an old Joan Didion essay on self-respect that appeared in Vogue.

There is more of the uplifted forefinger and the reiterated point than I should have allowed myself in an essay.

Consequently he was able to turn in a clear essay upon the subject, which, upon examination, the king found to be free from error.

It is no part of the present essay to attempt to detail the particulars of a code of social legislation.

But angels and ministers of grace defend us from ministers of religion who essay art criticism!

It is fit that the imagination, which is free to go through all things, should essay such excursions.

Related Words

Words related to essay are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word essay . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

verb as in point or direct at a goal

• concentrate
• contemplate
• set one's sights on

noun as in piece of writing

• think piece

verb as in try, make effort

• do level best
• exert oneself
• give a fling
• give a whirl
• give best shot
• give it a go
• give it a try
• give old college try
• go the limit
• have a go at
• shoot the works
• take best shot
• try one's hand at

Viewing 5 / 74 related words

On this page you'll find 154 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to essay, such as: article, discussion, dissertation, manuscript, paper, and piece.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

Synonyms of essay

• as in article
• as in attempt
• as in to attempt
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Thesaurus Definition of essay

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dissertation
• composition
• prolegomenon
• undertaking
• trial and error
• experimentation

Thesaurus Definition of essay  (Entry 2 of 2)

• have a go at
• try one's hand (at)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb essay differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of essay are attempt , endeavor , strive , and try . While all these words mean "to make an effort to accomplish an end," essay implies difficulty but also suggests tentative trying or experimenting.

When might attempt be a better fit than essay ?

While the synonyms attempt and essay are close in meaning, attempt stresses the initiation or beginning of an effort.

Where would endeavor be a reasonable alternative to essay ?

Although the words endeavor and essay have much in common, endeavor heightens the implications of exertion and difficulty.

When is strive a more appropriate choice than essay ?

While in some cases nearly identical to essay , strive implies great exertion against great difficulty and specifically suggests persistent effort.

How do try and attempt relate to one another, in the sense of essay ?

Try is often close to attempt but may stress effort or experiment made in the hope of testing or proving something.

Examples of essay in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'essay.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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To 'Essay' or 'Assay'?

You'll know the difference if you give it the old college essay

Thesaurus Entries Near essay

Cite this entry.

“Essay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/essay. Accessed 31 Jul. 2024.

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Nglish: Translation of essay for Spanish Speakers

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about essay

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Synonyms for But also

145 other terms for but also - words and phrases with similar meaning.

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10 Other Ways to Say “for Example” in An Essay (with Examples)

Writing a well-structured and engaging essay requires more than just presenting information—it’s about guiding your reader through your thoughts and ideas with smooth transitions and clear illustrations . One phrase that often gets overused is “for example,” which can make your writing feel repetitive and dull to read .

Fortunately, the English language offers a wealth of alternative transition phrases that can add variety and sophistication to your essays. In this blog post, we’ll explore other ways to say “for example” in an essay with usage examples to help you seamlessly incorporate these phrases into your writing.

Whether you’re a student crafting a research paper or a professional putting together a persuasive essay, mastering these transitional phrases will elevate your writing style and keep your readers engaged from start to finish .

Get ready to bid farewell to the monotony of “for example” and discover a world of fresh, expressive alternatives .

What to Say Instead of “For Example” in An Essay

Here are 10 other ways to say “for example” in an essay:

• For instance
• To illustrate
• As an illustration
• Specifically
• In particular
• To give an example
• Take the case of
• Consider the following

1. For instance

The phrase “for instance” is a casual yet clear way to introduce an example that supports your point. It’s like saying, “Here’s a clear example that illustrates what I’m talking about.”

This expression is handy because it seamlessly integrates examples into your narrative without feeling forced or out of place.

It works well in both spoken and written language, offering a smooth transition to your example.

Usage examples:

• I’m proud of your dedication to volunteering, for instance , your weekly commitment to the animal shelter shows your compassion and resilience.
• Your recent project was outstanding, for instance , the innovative design you came up with was both practical and creative.

2. To illustrate

“To illustrate” is a more formal way to introduce an example. It’s as if you’re saying, “Let me paint you a picture to make my point clearer.”

This phrase is particularly useful in academic or professional settings where clarity and depth of explanation are paramount.

It sets the stage for an example that will shed light on the subject matter in a more detailed and vivid manner.

• Your leadership skills have grown remarkably, to illustrate , your handling of the last team project brought out the best in everyone involved.
• You’ve made significant improvements in your communication skills, to illustrate , your recent presentation was both engaging and informative.

3. As an illustration

“As an illustration” is akin to “to illustrate” but often introduces a more detailed or complex example.

This phrase suggests that the upcoming example will serve as a clear, almost pictorial representation of the point being discussed.

It’s particularly useful when the example is not just a fact but a scenario that embodies the point.

• Your creativity knows no bounds, as an illustration , your art project not only won the competition but also sparked a community-wide conversation about environmental conservation.
• Your problem-solving skills are exceptional, as an illustration , the way you navigated the challenges during the software update was both innovative and efficient.

“Such as” is a simple and effective way to introduce examples without making a big shift from your main point.

It’s like casually dropping examples into the conversation or text, making it clear that these are direct instances of what you’re discussing. This expression is versatile and fits well in both formal and informal contexts.

• I am impressed by your academic achievements, such as your recent scholarship award and your publication in the student journal.
• Your kindness and empathy towards others are truly commendable, such as when you helped your classmate understand a complex math problem.

“Namely” is a way to specify or name examples explicitly. It’s like saying, “I’m going to pinpoint exactly what I mean.”

This expression is useful when you want to be very clear and direct about the examples you’re providing, often following a more general statement with specific, illustrative instances.

• Your contributions to the team have been invaluable, namely , your initiative in leading the community outreach program has made a significant impact.
• You have a talent for writing, namely , your essays and stories have not only received high praise from your teachers but have also been published in the school newsletter.

6. Specifically

“Specifically” is used to highlight a particular example with precision and focus.

It tells the reader or listener that you are about to provide a distinct, clear-cut instance that underscores your point.

This term is especially useful when narrowing down from a broad category to a singular, notable example, ensuring that your audience understands exactly which aspect or item you’re referring to.

• Your athletic achievements are truly impressive, specifically , your record-breaking performance at the state championship was a moment of pride for the entire school.
• Your ability to connect with clients is remarkable, specifically , the way you handled the Jones account showed great sensitivity and professionalism.

7. In particular

“In particular” signals that you are singling out an example that is especially noteworthy or relevant among others.

It’s a way of focusing the spotlight on a specific instance, suggesting that while there may be many examples, the one you’re about to mention stands out for some reason.

This expression is useful for drawing attention to a particularly strong or important point.

• You have shown a lot of growth in many areas, in particular , your leadership during the community service project was inspiring to everyone involved.
• Your artistic talents are diverse, in particular , your work in digital art has opened up new avenues for exploration and expression in our art class.

8. To give an example

“To give an example” is a straightforward and clear way to introduce an example. It’s like directly saying, “Let me show you what I mean by providing a specific instance.”

This expression is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, providing a clear signal to the audience that an illustrative example is coming up.

• You’ve been doing an excellent job with your studies, to give an example , your recent project on renewable energy was not only well-researched but also presented with great clarity.
• Your commitment to improving your skills is commendable, to give an example , the extra hours you’ve been putting into practice have paid off in your piano recitals.

9. Take the case of

“Take the case of” invites the audience to consider a specific example as a representative case or scenario.

It’s a more narrative way of introducing an example, almost as if you’re telling a story or presenting a case study.

This expression is particularly effective when the example is a bit more involved or when you want to draw the audience into a more detailed examination of the instance.

• Your dedication to helping others is truly admirable, take the case of the time you organized a fundraiser for the local animal shelter, demonstrating your ability to lead and inspire others for a good cause.
• Your innovative thinking has led to many improvements, take the case of the new filing system you developed, which has greatly increased efficiency in the office.

10. Consider the following

“Consider the following” is a formal and somewhat scholarly way to introduce an example or a series of examples. It’s like inviting the audience to pause and reflect on a specific instance or set of instances that you’re about to present.

This expression is particularly useful in academic writing or presentations where a deeper level of consideration and analysis is expected.

• Your grasp of complex scientific concepts is outstanding, consider the following example: your science fair project on sustainable energy solutions not only showcased your deep understanding but also your ability to apply knowledge in practical ways.
• Your contributions to our team are numerous and valuable, consider the following example: the mentoring program you initiated for new hires has significantly improved their onboarding experience and overall job satisfaction.

Using varied transition phrases like these can make your writing more engaging and prevent overuse of the phrase “for example.” They signal to the reader that you are providing a specific instance or evidence to support your point.

Related Posts:

14 Other Words for “Said” in an Essay

You want to sound as engaging and interesting as possible when writing an essay, and using words like “said” might prevent that.

So, if you’re about to use “said” for the umpteenth time, you’re in luck!

We have gathered some alternatives to show you other ways to say “said” in an essay that are bound to keep the reader entertained.

Other Ways to Say “Said”

Key takeaways.

• “Stated” is a great essay word that shows you are quoting a specific statement from a trustworthy source.
• “Declared” is a great way to describe an announcement or official quote.
• “Mentioned” is a bit simpler and allows you to highlight a quote that’s relevant to your essay.

Keep reading to find out how to quote what someone said in an essay. We’ll go over the three most effective terms to help spice up your academic writing.

One of the most common ways to replace “said” in an essay is “stated.” It’s a great formal synonym that helps to keep things direct and clear for the reader.

It works well before a quote. You should write “stated” to clarify that you’re about to run a quote by the reader.

Of course, you can’t claim that someone “stated” something without backing it up with evidence.

The last thing you’ll want is for the reader to look into the quote and find out it was never actually said.

But, as long as you’ve done your research, this works well. Good academic phrases that start with “stated” help you to establish a clear quote relating to the bulk of your essay.

These essay samples will also help you understand it:

It’s clear that he stated “time is the killer of all things.” However, nobody really understood the prophetic meaning behind it.

She stated that “it’s time to make the changes you want to see in the world.” That’s what led most people to join the revolution.

For a more impactful alternative, you can use “declared.”

You won’t find “declared” quite as often as “said,” but it’s still an incredibly good term to include.

It’s a formal synonym. It also shows that someone announced something important .

Generally, “declared” comes before compelling quotes. It might be more suitable to use it when quoting a famous politician or monarch of some kind.

It’s a surefire way to engage the reader and spark their imagination.

We highly recommend it when you’re certain that it belongs before a quote and will allow you to establish a more powerful meaning behind it.

Perhaps these essay samples will also help you with it:

The king declared “good things will come to those who ask me for them.” He was a very proud man.

She declared that “this was going to be the only time she offered her services to those in need.”

Feel free to use “mentioned,” too. It’s another word you can use instead of “said” in an essay that’ll keep things engaging for the reader.

It’s much subtler than the other phrases. It suggests that someone has made a brief comment about something, and you’d like to quote it for the reader.

Don’t worry; it’s still a good formal synonym. However, you should use it when the quote isn’t the most important part of your essay.

Quotes are there to add a bit of context for the reader. So, they’re not always needed to improve an essay.

“Mentioned” is a simple word that allows you to include a short but interesting quote . However, it usually isn’t as impactful as saying something like “declared” or “exclaimed.”

You can also refer to these essay examples:

The politician mentioned that “we cannot know what we haven’t already experienced.” That resonated with me.

It was clear that he mentioned “things were bound to change soon,” so they had to figure out what he meant.

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Synonyms and Nuances: Different Words for Experience

This essay is about the various words used to describe different facets of experience and their nuanced meanings. It explores terms such as “encounter,” “exposure,” “engagement,” “observation,” “practice,” and “experimentation,” explaining how each word highlights unique aspects of experiencing and learning from the world. The essay discusses how these terms are applied in personal growth, professional development, and learning processes, emphasizing their specific connotations and contexts. By understanding these diverse words, we can communicate more precisely and appreciate the complexity of human experiences.

How it works

Experience is at the heart of what makes us tick, influencing how we see the world, make choices, and shape who we are. The English language is chock-full of words that paint different shades of experience, each with its own little twist and turn. Grasping these words helps us express the richness of our lives more vividly.

Take the word “encounter,” for instance. It’s like stumbling upon something unexpected or brief but memorable—like meeting a famous author at a bookstore or spotting a rare bird while hiking.

An encounter is a direct, personal meeting that sticks with you and makes an impression.

Then there’s “exposure.” This one’s about being introduced to something new or different, usually over time. Think of it like traveling to different places and soaking up new cultures, or diving into fresh ideas at college. Exposure is all about the learning and adapting that happens when you’re repeatedly interacting with something unfamiliar.

“Engagement” steps it up a notch. It’s not just about experiencing something; it’s about jumping in with both feet and getting emotionally involved. Imagine a student pouring their heart into a tough research project or an employee fully committed to their company’s goals. Engagement is where you’re not just there, but you’re really present, making the experience richer and more meaningful.

“Observation,” on the other hand, is a bit more laid-back. It means watching something closely to gather insights or information. Scientists might observe natural phenomena to gather data, while a writer might observe people to craft believable characters. Observation is all about a thoughtful, analytical approach to learning.

Now, “practice” is the term for when you’re doing something over and over again to get good at it. Whether it’s a musician perfecting their tunes, an athlete honing their game, or a doctor refining their skills, practice is all about the grind that leads to expertise and mastery.

When it comes to professional growth, “exposure” and “observation” play big roles. Exposure means broadening your horizons by diving into various experiences, while observation is about delving deep into understanding. Both are key in fields where you need to keep learning and adapting.

“Experimentation” is another exciting one. It’s all about trying things out, learning from what works and what doesn’t. Scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs often experiment to discover new ideas or methods. This word captures the thrill of innovation and the guts to take risks.

In personal growth, words like “encounter,” “engagement,” and “practice” are essential. Encounters can open new doors, engagement means diving deep, and practice helps you become a pro. Together, they show how experience can shape us in countless ways.

Professionally, “exposure,” “observation,” and “practice” describe how we pick up skills and knowledge. Exposure is about the range of experiences, observation is the depth of understanding, and practice is putting that knowledge to work. These terms are crucial for describing how we grow and improve in our careers.

In the end, English gives us a treasure trove of words to describe different flavors of experience. Whether it’s “encounter,” “exposure,” “engagement,” “observation,” “practice,” or “experimentation,” each word highlights a unique part of how we interact with the world. By using these terms well, we can better capture the richness of human experience and deepen our understanding of ourselves and others.

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