Having said that is a useful English expression for adding a different point after making a statement. It often means however, despite that, or even so. The phrase helps speakers and writers show that they understand one idea but want to add another thought.
Learning other ways to say having said that can make your English sound more natural and flexible. Using the same transition again and again can make writing feel repetitive. Different expressions also help you match your tone to the situation.
For example, Having said that, the plan is still worth considering sounds balanced and professional. In casual English, you might say That said, the plan is still worth considering.
The right choice matters in business emails, essays, meetings, conversations, and everyday messages. Strong transition phrases make your ideas clearer and help your reader follow your thoughts.
What Does Having Said That Mean?
Having said that is an expression used to introduce a statement that adds a contrast, qualification, or different perspective to something just mentioned.
It is similar to saying however, nevertheless, even so, or that said.
For example:
The job is demanding. Having said that, it offers excellent opportunities.
Here, the speaker first gives a negative point. Then, having said that introduces a positive point.
The expression is a fixed transitional phrase. It comes from the perfect participle structure having + past participle, but in modern English it often works as a discourse marker.
It does not always mean that the second idea is the exact opposite of the first. Sometimes it simply adds a qualification or reminds the listener that another side of the issue should be considered.
Related expressions include:
- That said
- That being said
- However
- Nevertheless
- Even so
- Still
- Nonetheless
- On the other hand
- With that in mind
- At the same time
The opposite style would be expressions that show agreement or continuation, such as therefore, as a result, or in addition.
When to Use Having Said That
Spoken English
Having said that is common in conversations, especially when someone wants to change direction slightly or add a qualification.
For example:
I like working from home. Having said that, I sometimes miss the office.
It sounds natural when you want to show that you have considered more than one side.
In very casual speech, shorter expressions such as still, though, or but then may sound more relaxed.
Business English
The phrase works well in business communication because it helps create a balanced argument.
For example:
The current system has some limitations. Having said that, it has served us well for several years.
This can make your communication sound thoughtful rather than overly negative.
It is especially useful when discussing proposals, budgets, workplace problems, customer feedback, or business decisions.
Emails and Messages
Having said that can be useful in professional emails when you want to soften a criticism or introduce another perspective.
For example:
The deadline is quite tight. Having said that, I believe we can complete the project on time.
In short workplace messages, that said may be more concise.
Social Media
The phrase can work well in social media posts when you are giving an opinion and then adding a different point.
For example:
The movie was a little slow at first. Having said that, the ending was fantastic.
For very casual posts, still, though, or but honestly may feel more natural.
Academic Writing
In academic writing, having said that is understandable, but more formal alternatives are often preferred.
Expressions such as however, nevertheless, nonetheless, and despite this may fit academic work better.
For example:
The study has several limitations. Nevertheless, the findings remain valuable.
This sounds more formal and objective.
Professional Meetings
The phrase is useful in meetings when you want to acknowledge a concern before presenting another view.
For example:
The proposal will require additional funding. Having said that, the long-term benefits could justify the investment.
It can help you sound balanced and reasonable during discussions.
Is Having Said That Polite or Professional?
Having said that is generally polite, neutral, and professional. It is not rude or aggressive.
Its tone depends on what follows it.
A polite use might be:
I understand your concern. Having said that, I think we should look at the bigger picture.
A neutral use might be:
The process takes time. Having said that, it is quite reliable.
A stronger use might be:
I understand the risks. Having said that, we cannot delay the decision any longer.
A softer alternative is:
At the same time, we should consider the other options.
A formal alternative is:
Nevertheless, the evidence suggests a different conclusion.
For workplace communication, having said that, that said, however, and nevertheless are usually safe choices.
Better for workplace: Having said that, I believe we should review the proposal again.
Avoid in highly formal academic writing: Having said that, the study…
In academic work, however, nevertheless, or despite this often sounds more polished.
Pros & Cons of Using Having Said That
ā Pros
- Shows a balanced point of view
- Helps introduce contrast
- Sounds natural in conversation
- Works well in professional communication
- Can soften disagreement
- Helps connect related ideas
- Makes arguments easier to follow
- Useful when discussing two sides of an issue
ā Cons
- Can sound repetitive if overused
- May be too conversational for some academic writing
- Does not always show a strong contrast
- Can become a filler phrase
- Some alternatives are shorter and clearer
- The meaning can become weak if the second sentence has little connection to the first
Quick Alternatives to Having Said That
- That said
- That being said
- However
- Nevertheless
- Nonetheless
- Even so
- Still
- On the other hand
- At the same time
- With that in mind
- Despite that
- Despite this
- Even then
- Yet
- Although
- All the same
- In spite of that
- By contrast
- Conversely
- On the flip side
That Said
Phrase: That said
Meaning: A short way to introduce a different or balancing point.
Explanation: That said is one of the closest and most natural alternatives to having said that. It has almost the same meaning but is shorter. It works especially well in emails, business writing, and everyday speech.
Grammar Note: Transitional phrase or discourse marker.
Example Sentence: The price is high. That said, the quality is excellent.
Best Use: Business, emails, conversations, professional writing.
Worst Use: When there is no contrast between the two ideas.
Tone: Neutral, professional, natural.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 10/10
Replaceability Tip: Use that said when you want the same meaning as having said that in a shorter and cleaner form.
That Being Said
Phrase: That being said
Meaning: A phrase used to introduce another point after acknowledging the previous one.
Explanation: This is extremely close to having said that. It often introduces a qualification or contrasting idea. It can sound slightly more deliberate than that said.
Grammar Note: Participial transitional phrase.
Example Sentence: The project is expensive. That being said, it could save money in the long term.
Best Use: Business, essays, presentations, professional conversations.
Worst Use: Very short casual messages where it may feel unnecessarily formal.
Tone: Neutral, professional, thoughtful.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 10/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose it when you want to acknowledge the first statement before introducing another perspective.
However
Phrase: However
Meaning: Used to introduce a contrasting idea.
Explanation: However is one of the most useful transition words in English. It is shorter and more direct than having said that. It works especially well in formal and academic writing.
Grammar Note: Conjunctive adverb.
Example Sentence: The method is simple. However, it requires careful preparation.
Best Use: Academic writing, business emails, reports, essays, professional communication.
Worst Use: Replacing every instance of but, which can make writing feel repetitive.
Tone: Formal, neutral, professional.
Level: Beginner.
Similarity Score: 9/10
Replaceability Tip: Use however when you want a clear and concise contrast.
Nevertheless
Phrase: Nevertheless
Meaning: Despite what was just mentioned, the next statement is still true.
Explanation: Nevertheless creates a stronger contrast than many casual alternatives. It is excellent for formal writing and professional arguments.
Grammar Note: Conjunctive adverb.
Example Sentence: The results were mixed. Nevertheless, the research provided useful information.
Best Use: Academic writing, reports, formal emails, professional discussions.
Worst Use: Very casual chats.
Tone: Formal, strong, professional.
Level: Advanced.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose it when you want the second idea to stand firmly despite the first point.
Nonetheless
Phrase: Nonetheless
Meaning: Despite that or even so.
Explanation: Nonetheless has almost the same meaning as nevertheless. It is useful when you want a polished transition in formal writing.
Grammar Note: Conjunctive adverb.
Example Sentence: The task was difficult. Nonetheless, the team completed it successfully.
Best Use: Formal writing, business reports, academic work.
Worst Use: Informal text messages.
Tone: Formal, confident, professional.
Level: Advanced.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Use nonetheless when you want a formal alternative that shows strong contrast.
Even So
Phrase: Even so
Meaning: Despite what has been said, the next point remains true.
Explanation: Even so sounds natural and conversational. It is useful when the second point continues to support an idea despite a problem.
Grammar Note: Transitional phrase.
Example Sentence: The apartment is small. Even so, it is in a great location.
Best Use: Spoken English, informal writing, messages.
Worst Use: Very formal reports.
Tone: Friendly, neutral, conversational.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 9/10
Replaceability Tip: Use this when you want a natural spoken alternative to having said that.
Still
Phrase: Still
Meaning: Despite that, or even though something is true.
Explanation: Still is short and common. It works especially well in conversation. It can introduce a positive or negative thought that remains true.
Grammar Note: Adverb and discourse marker.
Example Sentence: The journey was tiring. Still, I enjoyed it.
Best Use: Everyday speech, messages, informal writing.
Worst Use: Formal academic arguments where a more precise transition is needed.
Tone: Casual, neutral, friendly.
Level: Beginner.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Use still when you want a short, natural conversational transition.
On the Other Hand
Phrase: On the other hand
Meaning: Used to introduce another side or viewpoint.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when you are comparing two different sides of an issue. It can be stronger than having said that because it clearly signals a second perspective.
Grammar Note: Idiomatic transition phrase.
Example Sentence: Working from home saves travel time. On the other hand, some people miss the social side of the office.
Best Use: Essays, discussions, presentations, debates, professional meetings.
Worst Use: When the second sentence is not really another side of the issue.
Tone: Neutral, analytical, professional.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose it when your goal is to compare two viewpoints.
At the Same Time
Phrase: At the same time
Meaning: Introduces another fact that should be considered alongside the first one.
Explanation: This phrase creates a softer contrast. It does not necessarily reject the first idea. Instead, it tells the listener that both points can be true.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase used as a discourse marker.
Example Sentence: The plan is ambitious. At the same time, it is realistic.
Best Use: Business, meetings, essays, conversations.
Worst Use: When you need a very strong contrast.
Tone: Neutral, balanced, professional.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Use it when you want to present two ideas as equally important.
With That in Mind
Phrase: With that in mind
Meaning: Considering what was just mentioned, another action or idea follows.
Explanation: This expression is slightly different from having said that. It usually connects an earlier fact to a decision, recommendation, or next step.
Grammar Note: Prepositional idiomatic phrase.
Example Sentence: The deadline is approaching quickly. With that in mind, we should begin today.
Best Use: Business, meetings, reports, professional emails.
Worst Use: Simple contrasts where no decision follows.
Tone: Professional, thoughtful, formal.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 7/10
Replaceability Tip: Use it when the first point should directly influence what comes next.
Despite This
Phrase: Despite this
Meaning: Even though the previous fact is true.
Explanation: Despite this gives a clear contrast and works well in formal writing. It is useful when the previous sentence describes a problem or limitation.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase.
Example Sentence: The process has several challenges. Despite this, it remains effective.
Best Use: Academic writing, reports, business communication.
Worst Use: Very casual conversation.
Tone: Formal, clear, objective.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose it when you want to clearly connect the contrast to the previous sentence.
Yet
Phrase: Yet
Meaning: Despite that or nevertheless.
Explanation: Yet is short and powerful. It can create a strong contrast without adding many words.
Grammar Note: Conjunction or adverb.
Example Sentence: The task was difficult, yet the team finished early.
Best Use: Essays, professional writing, speech, everyday English.
Worst Use: When the relationship between the two ideas is not contrasting.
Tone: Neutral, concise, slightly strong.
Level: Beginner.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Use yet when you want a compact alternative to a longer transition.
Although
Phrase: Although
Meaning: Introduces a statement that contrasts with another idea.
Explanation: Although is useful for combining two connected ideas in one sentence. It can make writing more concise than using a separate transition.
Grammar Note: Subordinating conjunction.
Example Sentence: Although the course is challenging, it is very useful.
Best Use: Academic writing, essays, professional writing, general English.
Worst Use: Using it without completing the main clause.
Tone: Neutral, formal, polished.
Level: Beginner.
Similarity Score: 7/10
Replaceability Tip: Use although when you want to combine the contrast into one sentence.
All the Same
Phrase: All the same
Meaning: Despite that or nevertheless.
Explanation: All the same is a natural expression, but it is more conversational than nevertheless. It is useful when acknowledging a problem but maintaining your original opinion.
Grammar Note: Idiomatic transition.
Example Sentence: I understand why you are concerned. All the same, I think we should try.
Best Use: Spoken English, informal conversations, friendly discussions.
Worst Use: Formal academic papers.
Tone: Conversational, neutral.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose it when you want a relaxed way to maintain your point after acknowledging another view.
In Spite of That
Phrase: In spite of that
Meaning: Despite the fact just mentioned.
Explanation: This phrase makes the contrast clear. It can refer directly to a problem or situation described earlier.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase.
Example Sentence: The weather was terrible. In spite of that, we enjoyed the trip.
Best Use: Conversations, general writing, professional communication.
Worst Use: When the connection between the two statements is unclear.
Tone: Neutral, polite, clear.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 8/10
Replaceability Tip: Use it when you want to emphasize that the second action happened despite the first situation.
By Contrast
Phrase: By contrast
Meaning: Used to show a clear difference between two things.
Explanation: By contrast is more specific than having said that. It works best when comparing two people, ideas, results, or situations.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase used as a transition.
Example Sentence: The first approach is expensive. By contrast, the second option is affordable.
Best Use: Academic writing, reports, analysis, professional presentations.
Worst Use: Casual conversations where it may sound overly formal.
Tone: Formal, analytical, professional.
Level: Advanced.
Similarity Score: 7/10
Replaceability Tip: Use it when the purpose is direct comparison rather than simple qualification.
Conversely
Phrase: Conversely
Meaning: Used to introduce an opposite or reversed idea.
Explanation: Conversely is a formal transition. It is useful when one statement has a corresponding opposite or alternative.
Grammar Note: Conjunctive adverb.
Example Sentence: Higher prices may reduce demand. Conversely, lower prices may attract more customers.
Best Use: Academic writing, reports, business analysis.
Worst Use: Casual speech.
Tone: Formal, analytical, advanced.
Level: Advanced.
Similarity Score: 6/10
Replaceability Tip: Choose conversely when you need to show an actual reversal or opposite relationship.
On the Flip Side
Phrase: On the flip side
Meaning: Introduces another side or perspective.
Explanation: This is a casual alternative to on the other hand. It sounds friendly and modern, but it should not be used in highly formal writing.
Grammar Note: Idiomatic phrase.
Example Sentence: The job pays well. On the flip side, the hours are very long.
Best Use: Casual speech, blogs, social media, informal discussions.
Worst Use: Formal reports, academic essays, official business documents.
Tone: Casual, friendly, conversational.
Level: Intermediate.
Similarity Score: 7/10
Replaceability Tip: Use it when speaking casually and presenting the other side of an issue.
Mini Dialogue Examples
Formal Conversation
Manager: The new system will require some training.
Employee: That may take extra time.
Manager: Having said that, the new system should improve our workflow considerably.
Employee: I agree. The long-term benefits seem worthwhile.
Informal Conversation
Friend: The restaurant is pretty expensive.
Friend: That said, the food is really good.
Friend: True. Maybe we should try it once.
Business Email
Subject: Project Proposal
Dear James,
Thank you for sharing the revised proposal. The overall plan looks strong, although the budget is slightly higher than expected.
Having said that, I believe the potential benefits justify the additional cost. We can discuss the final figures during tomorrow’s meeting.
Best regards,
Michael
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using having said that without a real connection: The second idea should relate to the first.
- Using it for every contrast: Repeating the same transition can make your writing sound predictable.
- Confusing contrast with addition: Use in addition or furthermore when you are simply adding information.
- Using overly formal alternatives in casual chats: Words such as conversely and nevertheless may sound unnatural with close friends.
- Using having said that when the ideas are direct opposites: Sometimes however or on the other hand is clearer.
- Adding unnecessary punctuation: When used at the beginning of a sentence, the phrase is normally followed by a comma.
- Using it as a filler: Do not add having said that simply because you need a transition. Make sure it adds meaning.
Cultural & Tone Tips
Native speakers usually understand having said that as a thoughtful transition. It often suggests that the speaker wants to be fair.
It can soften disagreement because it first acknowledges one point before introducing another.
For example:
I understand why you prefer the first option. Having said that, the second option may be more practical.
This sounds more balanced than simply saying:
You are wrong.
In UK English, having said that, that said, and having said all that can sound natural in both conversation and writing. British speakers also commonly use still, though, and even so in casual situations.
In US English, that said, however, still, and on the other hand are very common. Having said that is also understood and widely used.
In casual social English, shorter phrases often sound more natural. Still, though, that said, and on the flip side can work well.
The key is to match the expression to the audience. A formal transition can make an academic or business message sound polished, but the same phrase may feel stiff in a casual text.
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Tone | Best Context | Professional Level | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| That said | Neutral | Emails, speech, business | High | The plan is costly. That said, it may be worthwhile. |
| However | Formal | Academic, business | Very high | The plan is costly. However, it may be worthwhile. |
| Nevertheless | Formal | Academic, reports | Very high | The plan is costly. Nevertheless, it may be worthwhile. |
| Even so | Friendly | Conversation | Medium | The plan is costly. Even so, I like the idea. |
| On the other hand | Neutral | Comparison, meetings | High | One option is fast. On the other hand, it costs more. |
| At the same time | Balanced | Business, discussion | High | The plan is difficult. At the same time, it is useful. |
| With that in mind | Professional | Meetings, decisions | Very high | The deadline is close. With that in mind, we should begin now. |
FAQs
Is Having Said That Rude?
No. Having said that is not rude. It is normally polite and balanced. However, the words that follow it can affect the overall tone.
Is Having Said That Okay in Emails?
Yes. It works well in professional emails, especially when you want to acknowledge one point before presenting another. For highly formal academic writing, however or nevertheless may be a better choice.
What Is the Most Formal Alternative to Having Said That?
Nevertheless, nonetheless, and however are strong formal alternatives. Nevertheless is especially useful when you want to show that the second point remains true despite the first.
What Is the Most Polite Alternative to Having Said That?
At the same time can sound very polite and balanced because it does not strongly reject the previous idea. That said is also polite and natural.
What Should Beginners Use Instead of Having Said That?
Beginners can use however, still, that said, and on the other hand. These expressions are common and easy to understand.
Is That Said Better Than Having Said That?
Neither is always better. That said is shorter and often sounds cleaner. Having said that can sound more conversational and thoughtful. Choose based on your sentence and audience.
Conclusion
Knowing other ways to say having said that gives you more control over your English. Instead of repeating one transition, you can choose expressions that match your message and audience. That said is short and natural, however is clear and professional, while nevertheless and nonetheless are stronger formal choices. For casual conversations, still and even so can sound more relaxed.
These alternatives can improve your emails, essays, meetings, conversations, and everyday writing. The key is not to memorize every phrase at once. Start with a few useful options and practice them in real sentences. With regular practice, your English will become more fluent, natural, and flexible.
Iām John Mark, the creator of EnglishGrammarline. I share simple and meaningful insights into dreams, their symbols, and possible interpretations. My goal is to help readers understand their dreams in an easy and interesting way.