The Dreadful “But”

By Julie Zuehlke

When we speak the word “but,” we negate the statement that goes before that “but” and set up an argumentative style. When we write the word “but,” the same holds true. Try to eliminate the “but” from your language. Spoken and written. All the time. It’s more difficult than you think AND it will change the way you think.

Consider the person who says, “I like her as a friend, but . . . .” You know what comes next won’t be kind. How much nicer, and hopefully more accurate, to say, “I like her as a friend and am willing to overlook her shortcomings.”

OR the boss who says, “You did a good job, but now we have to face another challenge.” Yikes! He just deflated the praise. How much more boosting if he would have said: “Congratulations on a job well done! I”m confident you”ll have the same success in upcoming projects.”

Keep that same idea in your writing. NO BUTS.

Scientific writers and some tech writers tend to overdo it with “but” stuff when they write even in a scientific report, mostly because they need to make disclaimers. Example of “but language” that deflates or negates a true statement:

“This new technique will advance the methods of treating cancer BUT further research will confirm those findings.”

Well, is that the good news or the bad news? Is there a promising new technique or not? If the first statement is true, then don”t disclaim it in the next phrase by following it with a BUT.

This would be a more meaningful way to write that information: “This new technique shows promise in treating cancer. Continuing research will confirm its range of effectiveness.”

In most writing, BUT can be replaced with AND. If the two statements cannot connect with an AND, just end the sentence and start a new one.

Remember: BUT will not work as a conjunction and has lost its usefulness in most kinds of written communication. It sets up a negative tone and acts as “rebuttal.” See the word “but” in that word?

If a statement is true, do not follow it with a “but.” AND even if “but” is appropriate, you may not begin a sentence with it. Or worse yet a paragraph with it. This is done so frequently in writing it has become the norm. Make it your personal campaign to eliminate the “buts” from your writing. Don”t think that “however” makes a better choice. It does not.

Develop your own positive-sounding vocabulary when you need to contradict someone or some statement. Try saying “Agreed, AND here”s another valid perspective . . .” or simply say “Yes, that seems to be a true statement AND there are other truths concerning this issue.” OR “While that”s true, it leaves out other important aspects.”

And never never never use the “Not only . . . . but also . . .” language that some marketing writers or feature writers think is clever: “Not only do we sponsor a yearly picnic but also provide free entertainment.”

How ridiculous to attempt emphasis with THREE negatives. This has more positive action and impact:     “We sponsor a yearly picnic and provide free entertainment.”

Eliminate the “Dreadful But” from your writing, your speaking, your thinking. You”ll enjoy a more positive attitude and improved communication.

Julie Zuehlke is the editor of Definitive Woman Magazine, published by AMP2 in west central Minnesota and a frequent workshop presenter of “The Writing Clinic” that helps monitor healthy writing and prescribes techniques for better writing. To schedule a writing check-up and communication audit, contact Zuehlke at (320)763-7789 or editor@definitivewoman.com.

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