Many of us were taught that no sentence should begin with…
“Many of us were taught that no sentence should begin with "but." If that's what you learned, unlearn it - there's no stronger word at the start. It announces a total contrast with what has gone before, and the reader is thereby primed for the change.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Starting a sentence with “but” creates immediate contrast, grabbing attention and signaling a shift in thought.
In simple terms: Using “but” at sentence start adds impact.
Key Takeaway
Use “but” to highlight contrast.
Themes
writing
style
clarity
contrast
Mood
analytical
encouraging
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- editing
- public speaking
- creative writing
- teaching
Key Concepts
rhetoric
sentence structure
Questions to Reflect On
- When does “but” strengthen your point?
- Can other words replace “but” effectively?
A Different Perspective
Overuse can make writing feel informal.