The phrase “Having said that” is often used to introduce a contrast or exception, but it can sometimes sound a bit formal or repetitive. Depending on your tone, alternatives like “That being said,” “Even so,” or “However” can make your writing smoother and more natural.
Choosing the right wording helps you set the right tone—whether you’re drafting an academic paper, writing a professional email, or keeping a casual conversation flowing. This guide explores clear and effective alternatives to “Having said that” that make your communication feel polished and engaging.
Definition of “Having Said That”
“Having said that” is a transitional phrase used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or qualifies what has just been said. It signals a shift in perspective, acknowledging a previous point while introducing a different or opposing viewpoint.
Functionally, it acts as a conjunction or adverbial phrase, connecting two related but contrasting ideas. It indicates a concession, acknowledging the validity of a previous statement before presenting a counterargument or limitation.
The phrase implies a weighing of different perspectives and a nuanced understanding of the topic at hand. It is generally considered formal and is more common in written English than in casual conversation, although its use is perfectly acceptable in formal spoken contexts such as presentations or debates.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of “having said that” is relatively simple. It is a participial phrase, with “having” being the present participle of “have” and “said” being the past participle of “say.” This phrase is followed by a comma and then the main clause that expresses the contrasting or qualifying statement. The phrase itself doesn’t change form; it remains consistent regardless of the tense or subject of the main clause. The key is the relationship between the two clauses: the first clause presents an idea, and the second clause, introduced by “having said that,” presents a contrasting, qualifying, or limiting perspective.
For example:
“He is a talented musician. Having said that, his stage presence needs improvement.”
In this example, the first clause acknowledges the musician’s talent, while the second clause, introduced by “having said that,” points out a weakness.
Types of Other Ways to Say “Having Said That”
There are several categories of alternatives to “having said that,” depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. These categories include phrases that express:
Contrast
These alternatives directly introduce a contrasting idea, often implying a disagreement or opposing viewpoint.
Concession
These alternatives acknowledge the validity of a previous point before introducing a contrasting one. They are similar to “having said that” but can offer a more formal or nuanced tone.
Qualification
These alternatives limit or refine the scope of a previous statement, adding a condition or exception.
Addition with Contrast
These alternatives introduce an additional point that also provides a contrast with the previous statement.
Examples
The following tables provide examples of alternatives to “having said that” organized by category. Each example demonstrates how the alternative phrase can be used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement.
Contrast Examples
This table showcases alternatives that introduce a direct contrast to the preceding statement. These phrases emphasize the difference between the two ideas being presented.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| However | The project was initially successful. However, it later faced significant challenges. |
| Nevertheless | The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, they decided to go for a hike. |
| Nonetheless | The evidence was circumstantial. Nonetheless, the jury found him guilty. |
| Still | He apologized for his mistake. Still, she was not ready to forgive him. |
| Yet | She studied hard for the exam. Yet, she didn’t get the grade she wanted. |
| But | The movie was long. But, it was very entertaining. |
| On the other hand | He prefers to work independently. On the other hand, she thrives in a team environment. |
| In contrast | The city is bustling and crowded. In contrast, the countryside is peaceful and serene. |
| Conversely | Some people enjoy the challenge of public speaking. Conversely, others find it terrifying. |
| Even so | The task was difficult. Even so, they managed to complete it on time. |
| Despite that | He was exhausted. Despite that, he continued working. |
| Regardless | The cost was high. Regardless, they decided to proceed with the purchase. |
| Notwithstanding | Notwithstanding the difficulties, the project was a success. |
| In spite of that | She was nervous. In spite of that, she delivered a confident presentation. |
| That being said | The car is expensive. That being said, it’s very reliable. |
| On the contrary | He claimed to be an expert. On the contrary, his knowledge was quite limited. |
| Instead | They planned to go to the beach. Instead, they stayed home and watched a movie. |
| Whereas | Some people prefer coffee. Whereas, others prefer tea. |
| Unlike | Unlike his brother, he is very outgoing. |
| By contrast | Our sales increased this quarter. By contrast, our competitor’s sales declined. |
| Differently | The two countries approach the issue differently. |
| Alternatively | We could fly to Paris. Alternatively, we could take the train. |
| Then again | The weather forecast is good. Then again, forecasts can be unreliable. |
| All the same | The service was slow. All the same, the food was excellent. |
| Be that as it may | The plan has its flaws. Be that as it may, it’s the best option we have. |
| Taking everything into consideration | The house needs repairs, but taking everything into consideration, it’s a good investment. |
| When all is said and done | The project was challenging, but when all is said and done, it was a success. |
Concession Examples
This table provides alternatives that concede a point before introducing a contrasting idea. These phrases acknowledge the validity of the initial statement before presenting a different perspective.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Admittedly | Admittedly, the task was difficult. However, we managed to complete it. |
| It is true that | It is true that the economy is struggling. Nevertheless, there are signs of recovery. |
| While it is true that | While it is true that he made mistakes, he has learned from them. |
| Although | Although the car is old, it still runs well. |
| Even though | Even though she was tired, she went to the party. |
| Despite the fact that | Despite the fact that it was raining, they went for a walk. |
| In spite of the fact that | In spite of the fact that he was injured, he finished the race. |
| Granted | Granted, the plan has its flaws. Still, it’s the best option we have. |
| To be sure | To be sure, the project was expensive. However, it delivered significant benefits. |
| Of course | Of course, there are risks involved. But the potential rewards are worth it. |
| No doubt | No doubt, the task is challenging. However, we are confident in our ability to succeed. |
| Undoubtedly | Undoubtedly, he is a talented artist. However, he lacks discipline. |
| Certainly | Certainly, the situation is complex. Nevertheless, we must find a solution. |
| Indeed | Indeed, the problem is serious. However, we are working to address it. |
| While | While I agree with your point, I have a different perspective. |
| Even if | Even if it rains, we will still go to the park. |
| Though | Though he was late, he still managed to catch the train. |
| Albeit | The proposal was well-received, albeit with some reservations. |
| While recognizing that | While recognizing that there are challenges, we believe the project is feasible. |
| Acknowledging that | Acknowledging that the budget is limited, we will prioritize key areas. |
| Conceding that | Conceding that the initial results were disappointing, we have adjusted our strategy. |
| Despite everything | Despite everything that has happened, I still believe in him. |
| Even with that | Even with that, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. |
| In spite of everything | In spite of everything, we have made significant progress. |
| With all that said | With all that said, there’s still much to look forward to. |
| All things considered | All things considered, it was a successful event. |
Qualification Examples
This table provides alternatives that qualify a previous statement, adding a condition or exception. These phrases refine the scope of the initial idea.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Except that | The plan is perfect, except that it’s too expensive. |
| Unless | We will go to the beach, unless it rains. |
| If not | We should leave now, if not, we’ll be late. |
| Provided that | You can borrow my car, provided that you return it by tomorrow. |
| As long as | You can stay here, as long as you behave yourself. |
| On the condition that | I will help you, on the condition that you listen to my advice. |
| With the exception of | Everyone is invited, with the exception of John. |
| Save for | The room was empty, save for a single chair. |
| But only if | I’ll come to the party, but only if you promise to dance with me. |
| To a certain extent | To a certain extent, I agree with your point. |
| Up to a point | Up to a point, the argument is valid. |
| In some respects | In some respects, the two approaches are similar. |
| Only if | We will succeed, only if we work together. |
| Subject to | The offer is subject to approval. |
| Depending on | The decision depending on the circumstances. |
| So long as | So long as you follow the rules, you’ll be fine. |
| Provided | Provided that you have a valid ticket, you can enter the stadium. |
| With that caveat | The plan is sound, with that caveat. |
| With that limitation | The analysis is accurate, with that limitation. |
| With that restriction | The offer is generous, with that restriction. |
| Except when | The machine works perfectly, except when it’s overloaded. |
| Other than | Other than that small detail, the report is excellent. |
| But then again | He said he would come, but then again, he’s often unreliable. |
| That said | The project is ambitious. That said, it is achievable with dedication and hard work. |
Addition with Contrast Examples
This table provides alternatives that add a point while also introducing a contrast. These phrases signal both addition and a shift in perspective.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Moreover | The product is affordable. Moreover, it’s highly effective. However, it lacks certain features. |
| Furthermore | The company is growing rapidly. Furthermore, it’s expanding into new markets. However, it needs to improve its customer service. |
| In addition | He is a talented writer. In addition, he is a skilled editor. However, he struggles with deadlines. |
| Besides | The restaurant has excellent food. Besides, it has a great atmosphere. However, it can be quite expensive. |
| What’s more | The car is fuel-efficient. What’s more, it’s very comfortable. However, it’s not very spacious. |
| Also | She is a good teacher. Also, she is very patient. But she can be a bit disorganized. |
| Too | He is a hard worker. He is intelligent, too. However, he lacks experience. |
| As well | The project is well-designed. It is well-executed as well. But, it is over budget. |
| On top of that | The service was slow. On top of that, the food was cold. However, the manager apologized. |
| To top it off | The flight was delayed. To top it off, our luggage was lost. However, the airline compensated us. |
| Not only that | The movie was boring. Not only that, but it was also poorly acted. However, the soundtrack was good. |
| And yet | He promised to be on time. And yet, he was late again. But I still trust him. |
| Yet still | She tried her best. Yet still, she failed the exam. But she didn’t give up. |
| Even then | We arrived early. Even then, we had to wait in line. But it was worth it. |
| Even so | The task was difficult. Even so, they managed to complete it. But they needed help. |
| In addition to that | In addition to that, the new software is user-friendly. However, it requires significant training. |
| Along with that | Along with that, the new policy promotes transparency. However, it may slow down decision-making. |
| Besides this | Besides this, the company offers excellent benefits. However, the work-life balance can be challenging. |
| Then | The team worked hard. Then, they celebrated their success. However, they soon faced new challenges. |
Usage Rules
While the alternatives to “having said that” offer a range of nuances, it’s important to use them correctly. Here are some general usage rules:
- Placement: Most of these phrases are used at the beginning of the second clause, after a comma.
- Punctuation: Ensure proper punctuation. Typically, a comma follows the transitional phrase.
- Context: Choose the alternative that best fits the context and the specific relationship between the two ideas. Consider the level of formality and the desired tone.
- Clarity: Ensure that the relationship between the two clauses is clear. The transitional phrase should effectively signal the contrast, concession, qualification, or addition.
- Avoid Overuse: While these phrases are useful, avoid overusing them. Vary your language to maintain a natural and engaging writing style.
- Formal vs. Informal: Some phrases are more formal than others. “Notwithstanding” and “be that as it may” are quite formal, while “but” and “still” are more informal.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “having said that”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| He is a good student, however, he is often late. | He is a good student; however, he is often late. OR He is a good student. However, he is often late. | “However” is a conjunctive adverb and should be preceded by a semicolon or a period when it connects two independent clauses. |
| Despite of the fact that it rained, we went for a walk. | Despite the fact that it rained, we went for a walk. | The correct phrase is “despite the fact that,” not “despite of the fact that.” |
| Although, he was tired, he went to work. | Although he was tired, he went to work. | “Although” should not be followed by a comma when it introduces a subordinate clause at the beginning of a sentence. |
| He is rich, but however, he is unhappy. | He is rich; however, he is unhappy. OR He is rich, but he is unhappy. | “But” and “however” should not be used together as they are redundant. |
| In spite of he was tired, he finished the race. | In spite of the fact that he was tired, he finished the race. OR Despite being tired, he finished the race. | “In spite of” should be followed by a noun phrase or “the fact that” + clause. |
| Granted, the task was difficult, but we completed it. | Granted, the task was difficult; still, we completed it. OR Granted, the task was difficult. Still, we completed it. OR Granted, the task was difficult, we completed it. | Using “granted” with “but” is redundant. Use a contrasting phrase like “still” or omit the conjunction entirely. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Each exercise focuses on different aspects of using alternatives to “having said that.”
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “having said that” from the list below. You may use each phrase only once.
List: However, Nevertheless, Although, On the other hand, In contrast, Granted
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The plan has some risks. ________, it’s the best option we have. | Granted |
| 2. The weather was cold. ________, they decided to go swimming. | Nevertheless |
| 3. She is very talented. ________, she needs to work on her teamwork skills. | However |
| 4. He prefers to work alone. ________, she enjoys collaborating with others. | On the other hand |
| 5. ________ the project was challenging, it was a great learning experience. | Although |
| 6. The city is crowded and noisy. ________, the countryside is peaceful and quiet. | In contrast |
| 7. The first half of the game was slow. ________, the second half was very exciting. | However |
| 8. She studied hard. ________, she didn’t pass the exam. | However |
| 9. ________ the initial investment is high, the long-term benefits are significant. | Granted |
| 10. He is a skilled musician. ________, he needs to improve his stage presence. | However |
Exercise 2: Sentence Rewriting
Rewrite the following sentences using an alternative to “having said that” to introduce a contrast. Choose a different alternative for each sentence.
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| He is a talented writer. Having said that, he struggles with deadlines. | He is a talented writer; however, he struggles with deadlines. |
| The product is expensive. Having said that, it is very reliable. | The product is expensive; nevertheless, it is very reliable. |
| She is a good teacher. Having said that, she can be a bit disorganized. | She is a good teacher, but she can be a bit disorganized. |
| The movie was long. Having said that, it was very entertaining. | The movie was long; still, it was very entertaining. |
| The task was difficult. Having said that, they managed to complete it on time. | The task was difficult; even so, they managed to complete it on time. |
| The service was slow. Having said that, the food was excellent. | The service was slow; all the same, the food was excellent. |
| He is a hard worker. Having said that, he lacks experience. | He is a hard worker; however, he lacks experience. |
| The plan has its flaws. Having said that, it’s the best option we have. | The plan has its flaws; be that as it may, it’s the best option we have. |
| The house needs repairs. Having said that, it’s a good investment. | The house needs repairs, but it’s a good investment. |
| The project was challenging. Having said that, it was a success. | The project was challenging; when all is said and done, it was a success. |
Exercise 3: Paragraph Completion
Complete the following paragraphs by adding sentences that use alternatives to “having said that” to introduce a contrasting or qualifying idea.
| Paragraph | Completed Paragraph |
|---|---|
| The company has experienced significant growth this year. ________ | The company has experienced significant growth this year. However, it needs to address its increasing debt. |
| The new software is user-friendly and efficient. ________ | The new software is user-friendly and efficient. Nevertheless, it requires significant training for advanced features. |
| The team has worked tirelessly to meet the deadline. ________ | The team has worked tirelessly to meet the deadline. Although they are exhausted, they are proud of their accomplishment. |
| The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes and a pleasant atmosphere. ________ | The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes and a pleasant atmosphere. On the other hand, it can be quite expensive for a casual meal. |
| The city is known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks. ________ | The city is known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks. In contrast, the cost of living is very high, making it difficult for many to afford. |
| He is a talented musician and a dedicated performer. ________ | He is a talented musician and a dedicated performer. However, he struggles with stage fright, which sometimes affects his performance. |
| The project was well-planned and executed with precision. ________ | The project was well-planned and executed with precision. Granted, it exceeded the initial budget, but the results were worth the extra investment. |
| She is an excellent communicator and a skilled negotiator. ________ | She is an excellent communicator and a skilled negotiator. However, she needs to improve her attention to detail, as minor errors sometimes slip through. |
| The new policy promotes transparency and accountability. ________ | The new policy promotes transparency and accountability. Nevertheless, it may slow down the decision-making process, which could affect efficiency. |
| The company is committed to innovation and sustainability. ________ | The company is committed to innovation and sustainability. However, it faces challenges in balancing these goals with profitability in the short term. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider exploring the subtle differences in meaning and usage between closely related alternatives. For example, “however” and “nevertheless” are often interchangeable, but “nevertheless” can convey a stronger sense of contrast or surprise.
Similarly, understanding the nuances of formal vs. informal language can help you choose the most appropriate phrase for a given context. Explore the use of these phrases in different genres of writing, such as academic papers, business reports, and creative writing, to see how they contribute to the overall tone and style.
Also, consider how cultural differences might influence the preferred choices of transitional phrases in different English-speaking regions.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about using alternatives to “having said that”:
- Is it incorrect to use “having said that” too often?While “having said that” is grammatically correct, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. Varying your language with different transitional phrases demonstrates a broader vocabulary and enhances the flow of your writing.
- Are there any alternatives that are more formal than “having said that”?Yes, phrases like “notwithstanding,” “be that as it may,” and “in spite of the fact that” are generally considered more formal than “having said that.” These phrases are often used in academic or professional writing.
- Can I use “but” instead of “having said that”?Yes, “but” is a simple and versatile alternative that can be used in many contexts. However, “but” is less formal than “having said that” and may not be appropriate for all situations.
- What’s the difference between “however” and “nevertheless”?“However” and “nevertheless” are often interchangeable, but “nevertheless” can convey a stronger sense of contrast or surprise. “Nevertheless” implies that the contrasting statement is true despite the preceding statement.
- Is it okay to start a sentence with “however”?Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to start a sentence with “however.” However, it’s important to use proper punctuation. When “however” connects two independent clauses, it should be preceded by a semicolon or a period.
- How do I choose the best alternative for a specific sentence?Consider the specific relationship between the two ideas you want to connect. Do you want to express a direct contrast, a concession, a qualification, or an addition with contrast? Choose the alternative that best reflects the nuance you want to convey. Also, consider the level of formality and the desired tone.
- Can I use “that said” instead of “having said that”?Yes, “that said” is a perfectly acceptable and slightly more concise alternative to “having said that.” It carries the same meaning and can be used in similar contexts.
- Are there any alternatives that are more suitable for spoken English?Yes, phrases like “but,” “still,” “even so,” and “on the other hand” are generally more common and natural in spoken English than “having said that” or more formal alternatives.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “having said that” is an essential step in improving your English fluency and writing skills. By understanding the nuances of different transitional phrases, you can express contrasting ideas with greater precision and sophistication.
This guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of various alternatives, along with examples, usage rules, and practice exercises. Remember to consider the context, level of formality, and desired tone when choosing the most appropriate phrase.
By diversifying your language and avoiding overuse of any single phrase, you can create more engaging and effective communication.