"but not often" vs "but often not"

Question

"but not often" vs "but often not"

Both "but often not" and "but not often" are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. "But often not" is used to emphasize that something frequently does not happen, while "but not often" is used to indicate that something does not happen frequently.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that something does not happen frequently. It is often used to express the frequency of an action or event.

Examples:

I go to the movies, but not often.
She eats out, but not often.
He exercises, but not often.

Alternatives:

but seldom
but rarely
but infrequently

This phrase is used to emphasize that something does not happen frequently. It is often used to express a contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs.

Examples:

I try to call her, but often not, she answers the phone.
He promises to be on time, but often not, he arrives late.
I ask for help, but often not, anyone offers assistance.

Alternatives:

but rarely
but seldom
but not usually

Answer 1

but not often

This phrase is correct and is commonly used in English to indicate that something does not happen frequently.

Answer 2

but often not

This phrase is correct and is commonly used in English to emphasize that something frequently does not happen.

"but not often" vs "but often not"

but not often

but often not

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