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Common mistake Sentence starting with 'And' or 'But'

Sentence starting with 'And' or 'But'

There is a long-standing myth that starting a sentence with the conjunctions 'And' or 'But' is grammatically incorrect. However, this is not entirely true. While it is generally not recommended to start a sentence with these conjunctions, there are instances where it can be considered acceptable and effective.

Starting a sentence with 'And' or 'But' can add emphasis, create a conversational tone, or simulate natural speech patterns. It can be particularly useful in creative writing, storytelling, or when you want to express a contrast or to introduce a new point in a clear and concise manner.

Examples:

  • And so, after months of planning, our dream vacation became a reality.
  • But first, let me explain the reasons behind my decision.

However, it is important to note that using these conjunctions to start a sentence excessively can make writing feel disjointed and choppy. It is generally recommended to use them sparingly and to ensure that the sentence flows smoothly.

If you are unsure about whether it is appropriate to start a sentence with 'And' or 'But,' one useful tool to consider is the Linguix grammar checker. This advanced writing assistant provides suggestions and explanations to help you improve your writing style and grammar accuracy.

Sentence starting with 'And' or 'But' mistake examples

  • Correct:
    And yes, it shows a lack of style to start a sentence with 'and'.
  • Correct:
    Yes, it shows a lack of style to start a sentence with 'and'.
  • Correct:
    But it is not a great writing style to start a sentence with 'but'.
  • Correct:
    It is not a great writing style to start a sentence with 'but'.
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