Imagine you are in a team meeting discussing a project deadline. You agree that the deadline is reasonable, but you also know the team is already stretched. You might say, “The deadline is achievable. Having said that, we may need another person on the project.”
That small phrase helps you do something important: acknowledge one point while introducing another that qualifies, contrasts with, or slightly changes what you just said.
“Having said that” is common in professional conversations, essays, presentations, emails, interviews, and everyday speech. However, repeating it too often can make your writing sound predictable. Choosing an alternative can also change the tone—from formal and measured to friendly, direct, cautious, or conversational.
In this guide, you’ll learn what “having said that” means, where it comes from, when to use it, when to avoid it, and which alternatives work best in different situations.
What Does “Having Said That” Mean?
“Having said that” is a transitional expression used to introduce a statement that qualifies, contrasts with, or adds an important exception to something just mentioned. It generally means “despite what I have just said” or “with that point acknowledged.” It is commonly used in conversations, professional communication, presentations, essays, and other situations where speakers want to balance two related ideas.
The phrase does not necessarily mean that the first statement was wrong. Instead, it signals that another consideration needs to be added before reaching a balanced conclusion.
For example:
“The proposal is expensive. Having said that, it could save us money over the next three years.”
The speaker accepts the first point but wants the listener to consider a second point.
Origin & History of “Having Said That”
“Having said that” comes from ordinary English grammar rather than from a single famous quotation or identifiable historical event. The structure uses “having” + a past participle, a form that can indicate that one action or statement has already been completed before another follows.
The expression developed naturally from constructions such as “having said…”, which have long been used to connect a previous statement with what comes next. The addition of “that” gives the expression a clearer reference to the point that has just been made.
Over time, “having said that” became established as a discourse marker—a phrase that helps listeners understand how one idea relates to another. Modern English speakers commonly use it to introduce a qualification, contrast, concession, or change in emphasis.
Its modern popularity is closely connected to the need for balanced communication. In workplaces, journalism, education, interviews, and online discussions, people often want to disagree or qualify a point without completely dismissing what came before.
Synonyms & Alternatives by Tone
Professional & Neutral Alternatives
- That said
- That being said
- With that in mind
- Nevertheless
- However
- Even so
- On the other hand
Polite & Supportive Alternatives
- At the same time
- I understand that, but
- I agree with that point; however
- While that is true
- It’s worth noting, though
Encouraging & Reassuring
- Still, there is another side to consider
- Even so, we can work with that
- That’s true, but there is a way forward
- Despite that
- All the same
Casual, Playful & Idiomatic Alternatives
- That said
- Still
- Then again
- Mind you
- On the flip side
- But here’s the thing
The best alternative depends on what relationship you want to create between the two ideas. “However” is more direct and formal, while “still” can sound more conversational. “With that in mind” usually signals a conclusion or next step rather than a simple contradiction.
When Should You Use “Having Said That”?
“Having said that” works best when you want to acknowledge a previous point and then introduce a qualification or contrasting consideration.
Professional settings
It can be useful in meetings, emails, performance discussions, project reviews, and business writing.
“The current system is reliable. Having said that, we should consider upgrading it before the next growth phase.”
The phrase allows the speaker to raise a concern without completely rejecting the positive assessment.
Casual conversations
It can also appear naturally in everyday speech.
“I really enjoyed the restaurant. Having said that, the service was slower than expected.”
Writing and presentations
The phrase can help connect two ideas in an article, report, speech, or presentation.
When it is especially effective
Use it when:
- You want to qualify a previous statement.
- You want to acknowledge another perspective.
- You disagree without sounding unnecessarily confrontational.
- You need to introduce an exception.
- You want to show balanced reasoning.
A useful rule is: if the second sentence changes, limits, or adds nuance to the first sentence, “having said that” may fit naturally.
When Should You Avoid “Having Said That”?
Although the expression is useful, it is not appropriate for every situation.
Overly formal situations
In highly formal or technical documents, a more precise transition such as “however,” “nevertheless,” or “despite this” may be cleaner.
Legal contexts
Legal writing generally benefits from precise wording rather than conversational transitions. If a qualification has legal consequences, state the relationship explicitly.
Sensitive communication
In a difficult conversation, “having said that” can sometimes sound as though you are preparing to undermine someone’s feelings or concerns.
For example:
“I understand why you’re upset. Having said that…”
Depending on the context, this may sound dismissive even if the speaker has good intentions.
When nuance may be lost
Avoid it when the relationship between the two ideas is more complicated than a simple qualification or contrast. In such cases, explain the connection directly.
Is “Having Said That” Professional, Polite, or Casual?
“Having said that” is generally professional and neutral, with a moderately conversational quality. It is common in workplace communication, discussions, presentations, interviews, and general writing.
It is not strongly formal, but it is more polished than very casual expressions such as “but here’s the thing.”
Its emotional effect depends heavily on what follows.
Compare:
“Having said that, I appreciate the effort you put into the project.”
This sounds balanced and supportive.
With:
“Having said that, your work was not good enough.”
This can sound blunt because the second statement creates a strong negative contrast.
The phrase itself is therefore not inherently polite or impolite. The surrounding language determines how the listener perceives it.
Pros and Cons of Using “Having Said That”
Advantages
- Clarity: It clearly signals a change or qualification.
- Efficiency: It connects two ideas without requiring a long explanation.
- Accessibility: Most proficient English speakers understand it easily.
- Balance: It allows you to acknowledge one position before presenting another.
- Flexibility: It works in speech and writing.
- Professional usefulness: It can soften disagreement when used carefully.
Potential drawbacks
- Oversimplification: Not every relationship between ideas is simply “yes, but.”
- Tone mismatch: It may sound too polished in a very casual conversation.
- Repetition: Frequent use can make writing feel formulaic.
- Possible defensiveness: In sensitive conversations, it may sound like a dismissal.
- Weak transitions: Sometimes “however” or a more specific connector communicates the relationship more precisely.
Real-Life Examples of “Having Said That” by Context
Emails
“The first draft is in good shape. Having said that, I think we should review the pricing section before sending it to the client.”
Meetings
“The current process is working reasonably well. Having said that, we’re spending too much time on manual reporting.”
Presentations
“Customer satisfaction has improved this quarter. Having said that, response times remain an area we need to address.”
Conversations
“I enjoyed the movie. Having said that, I thought the ending was rushed.”
Social media
“I usually prefer working from home. Having said that, there’s something productive about getting everyone together occasionally.”
These examples work because the second statement adds a meaningful qualification rather than simply changing the subject.
“Having Said That” vs Similar Expressions
| Phrase | Meaning Difference | Tone Difference | Best Use Scenario |
| That said | Introduces a qualification or contrasting point | Professional, concise | Emails, articles, meetings |
| That being said | Similar to “that said,” often emphasizing the previous statement | Neutral, slightly conversational | Discussions and general writing |
| However | Directly signals contrast between ideas | More formal and precise | Reports, essays, business writing |
| Nevertheless | Shows that something remains true despite a previous point | Formal and authoritative | Formal writing and analysis |
| Even so | Indicates that the previous point does not change the following conclusion | Conversational to neutral | Discussion and informal writing |
| On the other hand | Presents another perspective, option, or side | Neutral and explanatory | Comparisons and balanced arguments |
The main difference is what the transition asks the reader or listener to notice. “Having said that” often acknowledges the previous statement before qualifying it, whereas “on the other hand” more strongly introduces an alternative perspective.
Common Mistakes & Misuse of “Having Said That”
Overusing the phrase
Using “having said that” repeatedly can make an article, presentation, or speech sound mechanical.
Instead of:
“Having said that…”
“Having said that…”
“Having said that…”
alternate naturally with however, still, even so, at the same time, that said, or a direct transition.
Using it without a real contrast
The phrase usually needs a logical connection between the previous and following ideas.
Weak:
“The meeting starts at nine. Having said that, I bought coffee.”
There is no meaningful qualification.
Better:
“The meeting starts at nine. Having said that, we may begin a few minutes late because several people are traveling.”
Making the second statement unnecessarily negative
“Having said that” does not require criticism. It can introduce a positive qualification as well.
Using it to dismiss someone’s concern
In interpersonal communication, immediately following someone’s concern with “having said that” can sometimes sound like you are minimizing what they said.
Confusing contrast with sequence
If you simply want to describe what happened next, use “then,” “afterward,” “next,” or another sequence marker.
Psychological Reason People Prefer “Having Said That”
People often use “having said that” because it makes a conversation easier to process.
Cognitive load reduction
The phrase gives the listener a clear signal that the speaker is moving from one consideration to another. Instead of guessing how the second sentence relates to the first, the listener receives an explicit transition.
Trust and authority signals
Balanced language can make a speaker appear thoughtful because they acknowledge complexity rather than presenting every issue as completely one-sided.
For example:
“The strategy has clear benefits. Having said that, there are implementation risks.”
This sounds more measured than simply saying:
“The strategy has clear benefits.”
Attention economy
Modern communication often requires people to understand an argument quickly. A short transition can efficiently signal a change in direction.
Modern communication habits
In workplace conversations, podcasts, interviews, presentations, and online writing, speakers frequently qualify statements rather than making absolute claims. “Having said that” fits this communication style particularly well.
US vs UK Usage of “Having Said That”
“Having said that” is well understood in both American English and British English. There is no major difference in its basic meaning.
In both varieties, it commonly introduces a qualification or contrasting point.
British speakers may sometimes use related expressions such as “having said that,” “that said,” “mind you,” or “nevertheless,” depending on the setting. American English also commonly uses “that said,” “however,” “still,” and “on the other hand.”
The bigger difference is usually register rather than geography. A business email, academic essay, casual conversation, and social media post can each make the phrase feel slightly different.
“Having Said That” in Digital & Modern Communication
Emails
In professional email, it can help balance praise and constructive criticism.
“The campaign performed well overall. Having said that, we should revisit the mobile experience.”
Slack and WhatsApp
The expression can work, but shorter alternatives often feel more natural in fast-paced messaging.
“The update looks good. That said, I’d test it on Android before we release it.”
Social media
Writers sometimes use the phrase when acknowledging an opposing view before adding their own perspective.
AI-generated summaries
AI-generated content frequently uses transitions such as “however,” “that said,” and “having said that.” Because these expressions are common in structured writing, excessive repetition can make generated or edited content feel formulaic.
For human-sounding writing, choose the transition based on the actual relationship between the ideas rather than inserting one automatically.
Linguistic & Communication Insight
Emotional weight & subtext
The literal meaning of “having said that” is relatively simple, but listeners can perceive additional meaning from context.
It can communicate:
- “I recognize the point I just made.”
- “There is another side worth considering.”
- “I don’t want to completely reverse what I said.”
- “Let me add an important qualification.”
That makes it useful when someone wants to disagree without sounding as though the first statement was entirely wrong.
Direct vs indirect phrasing
Compare:
“The plan is too expensive, but we should approve it.”
with:
“The plan is expensive. Having said that, it could provide long-term savings.”
The second version creates more space between the concern and the conclusion. It can therefore sound more measured.
However, indirect language is not automatically better. If clarity and urgency matter, a direct statement may be preferable.
Professional communication perspective
At work, “having said that” often sounds considered and diplomatic. It can be especially useful when discussing budgets, performance, deadlines, proposals, or competing priorities.
However, managers and colleagues should be careful when using it after emotional concerns. A phrase intended as a transition may accidentally sound like “Yes, but your concern is less important.”
Pragmatic reasons for alternatives
Experienced communicators choose alternatives according to the response they want.
“However” is useful when precision matters.
“That said” is concise and polished.
“At the same time” can sound more collaborative because it does not always imply direct opposition.
“On the other hand” works well when genuinely comparing two perspectives.
“Still” is often better in relaxed conversation.
Social signaling
Word choice affects how people interpret confidence, cooperation, authority, and openness.
A strong transition tells the audience that the speaker has considered more than one factor. But excessive transitional language can make communication feel rehearsed.
Tone & context guidance
Use “having said that” when you want to acknowledge, qualify, and continue.
Be cautious when you want to comfort someone, because a quick “having said that” may unintentionally shift attention away from their feelings.
When precision is more important than diplomacy, use a direct sentence instead.
Meaning, Usage & Examples for Each Alternative
That Said
Meaning: “That said” introduces a qualification or contrasting point after acknowledging something previously mentioned.
Why This Phrase Works: It is concise, natural, and widely understood. It keeps the connection between two ideas clear without sounding overly formal.
Real-World Usage Insight: This is one of the strongest alternatives to “having said that” in modern professional writing because it is shorter while retaining the same basic function.
Best Use: Emails, reports, presentations, articles, meetings, and thoughtful conversations.
Avoid When: The second sentence has no meaningful relationship to the first.
Tone: Professional, neutral, concise.
US vs UK Usage: Common and natural in both American and British English.
Example (Email / Message / Meeting):
“The client seems happy with the first draft. That said, I’d make the pricing section clearer before we send the final version.”
That Being Said
Meaning: “That being said” introduces another consideration after a previous statement.
Why This Phrase Works: It explicitly tells the listener that the speaker is moving from one point to a related qualification.
Real-World Usage Insight: It is particularly useful when you want to sound measured during a discussion where both sides of an issue matter.
Best Use: Meetings, interviews, general writing, workplace discussions, and conversations.
Avoid When: You need a very concise transition or formal technical precision.
Tone: Neutral, thoughtful, moderately conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Familiar in both varieties of English and widely used in professional contexts.
Example (Meeting):
“The software is more expensive than our current system. That being said, it would eliminate several manual steps for the finance team.”
However
Meaning: “However” directly introduces a contrasting or limiting statement.
Why This Phrase Works: It is precise and immediately tells the reader that the next idea contrasts with what came before.
Real-World Usage Insight: When writing a report or academic-style explanation, “however” is often cleaner than a conversational phrase such as “having said that.”
Best Use: Reports, essays, presentations, business documents, and formal correspondence.
Avoid When: You want an especially warm or informal conversational tone.
Tone: Professional, formal, direct.
US vs UK Usage: Extremely common in both American and British English.
Example (Blog):
“Remote work can reduce commuting time and improve flexibility. However, companies still need effective systems for collaboration and communication.”
Nevertheless
Meaning: “Nevertheless” means that the following point remains true despite what has just been stated.
Why This Phrase Works: It creates a strong sense of concession and emphasizes that the second point is not changed by the first.
Real-World Usage Insight: It is useful when you want to emphasize persistence or continuation rather than simply introduce a mild contrast.
Best Use: Formal writing, analysis, reports, essays, and carefully structured arguments.
Avoid When: Writing a casual message where the word may feel unnecessarily formal.
Tone: Formal, authoritative, measured.
US vs UK Usage: Well established and understood in both varieties.
Example (Report):
“The first quarter presented several operational challenges. Nevertheless, the team exceeded its overall revenue target.”
Even So
Meaning: “Even so” means that the following point remains valid despite the previous information.
Why This Phrase Works: It acknowledges the first point while making it clear that the second conclusion still stands.
Real-World Usage Insight: It often sounds more conversational than “nevertheless,” making it useful when you want balance without excessive formality.
Best Use: Conversations, emails, blogs, discussions, and informal professional communication.
Avoid When: You need to express a highly technical relationship between two statements.
Tone: Neutral, conversational, balanced.
US vs UK Usage: Natural in both American and British English.
Example (Conversation):
“The commute is longer than I expected. Even so, I’m glad I took the job.”
On the Other Hand
Meaning: “On the other hand” introduces a different side, option, or perspective.
Why This Phrase Works: It is especially clear when two competing considerations need to be compared.
Real-World Usage Insight: Unlike “having said that,” it often suggests a genuine two-sided comparison rather than simply qualifying one previous statement.
Best Use: Comparisons, debates, presentations, essays, and decision-making discussions.
Avoid When: The second idea is only a minor qualification rather than a separate perspective.
Tone: Neutral, explanatory, balanced.
US vs UK Usage: Common and natural in both varieties.
Example (Meeting):
“Hiring another contractor would increase this month’s costs. On the other hand, it could help us finish the project before the deadline.”
At the Same Time
Meaning: “At the same time” introduces a point that should be considered alongside the previous one.
Why This Phrase Works: It can create a collaborative tone because it does not always imply that one statement cancels or contradicts the other.
Real-World Usage Insight: This is a useful choice when both points are true and you want to avoid an overly adversarial “yes, but” structure.
Best Use: Workplace communication, negotiations, discussions, and balanced explanations.
Avoid When: The two ideas are genuinely unrelated.
Tone: Neutral, collaborative, conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Widely used in both American and British English.
Example (Email):
“I agree that we should reduce unnecessary meetings. At the same time, we still need a weekly session for decisions that require the whole team.”
While That Is True
Meaning: “While that is true” acknowledges the validity of a previous statement before adding a qualification.
Why This Phrase Works: It directly validates the other person’s point, which can make disagreement feel less confrontational.
Real-World Usage Insight: This phrase can be especially effective during discussions where maintaining cooperation matters.
Best Use: Meetings, negotiations, feedback conversations, and respectful disagreement.
Avoid When: You do not actually agree with the preceding statement.
Tone: Polite, supportive, diplomatic.
US vs UK Usage: Commonly understood in both varieties.
Example (Meeting):
“While that is true, I think we should also consider the training time required before making the change.”
With That in Mind
Meaning: “With that in mind” means that the previous information should influence what comes next.
Why This Phrase Works: It connects evidence or circumstances to a decision, recommendation, or next step.
Real-World Usage Insight: It is not an exact synonym for “having said that.” It works best when the second statement follows logically from the first rather than directly contrasting with it.
Best Use: Recommendations, business communication, planning, presentations, and decision-making.
Avoid When: You simply want to express disagreement or contrast.
Tone: Professional, practical, thoughtful.
US vs UK Usage: Common and natural in both American and British English.
Example (Email):
“Several team members are already working at capacity. With that in mind, I recommend moving the launch back by one week.”
Still
Meaning: “Still” introduces a point that remains true despite the previous statement.
Why This Phrase Works: It is short, natural, and easy to use in spoken English.
Real-World Usage Insight: In everyday conversation, “still” can sound much more relaxed than “having said that.”
Best Use: Conversations, informal messages, chats, and friendly workplace communication.
Avoid When: Writing highly formal documents.
Tone: Casual, natural, conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Very common in both varieties.
Example (Message):
“The new route takes a little longer. Still, the traffic is much better in the morning.”
On the Flip Side
Meaning: “On the flip side” introduces the opposite or less obvious side of an issue.
Why This Phrase Works: It makes a contrasting perspective immediately recognizable.
Real-World Usage Insight: The expression has a noticeably more casual personality than “having said that,” so it can make conversational writing feel more relaxed.
Best Use: Blogs, podcasts, social media, informal discussions, and casual presentations.
Avoid When: Writing legal documents, formal reports, or highly serious correspondence.
Tone: Casual, modern, conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Well understood in both varieties, with particularly strong associations with informal contemporary English.
Example (Social Media):
“Working from home saves me a lot of time. On the flip side, I definitely miss the spontaneous conversations in the office.”
Then Again
Meaning: “Then again” introduces another thought that causes the speaker to reconsider or qualify a previous point.
Why This Phrase Works: It naturally communicates reconsideration rather than a simple formal contrast.
Real-World Usage Insight: It is especially natural in spoken English when someone is thinking through a decision aloud.
Best Use: Conversations, informal writing, personal decisions, and discussions.
Avoid When: You need a highly formal or authoritative tone.
Tone: Casual, reflective, conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Natural in both American and British English.
Example (Conversation):
“I could take the earlier flight. Then again, getting to the airport at five in the morning sounds miserable.”
Despite That
Meaning: “Despite that” indicates that the following statement remains true even though the previous point might suggest otherwise.
Why This Phrase Works: It clearly expresses concession and can be more direct than “having said that.”
Real-World Usage Insight: It works particularly well when the first statement presents an obstacle and the second explains what remains possible.
Best Use: Professional writing, reports, explanations, and conversations.
Avoid When: There is no actual obstacle or contrast.
Tone: Neutral, direct, measured.
US vs UK Usage: Widely understood in both American and British English.
Example (Email):
“The original supplier cannot deliver until next month. Despite that, we can keep the project moving by using our backup supplier.”
All the Same
Meaning: “All the same” means that something remains true despite a previous fact or objection.
Why This Phrase Works: It creates a sense of concession while keeping the following statement important.
Real-World Usage Insight: It can sound slightly more literary or old-fashioned than everyday alternatives, so context matters.
Best Use: Thoughtful writing, conversation, narrative prose, and reflective communication.
Avoid When: You want extremely plain, modern workplace language.
Tone: Neutral to slightly literary.
US vs UK Usage: Understood in both varieties, although it may sound somewhat more traditional to some speakers.
Example (Blog):
“The process takes longer than the automated option. All the same, many customers prefer having a person available to answer questions.”
But Here’s the Thing
Meaning: “But here’s the thing” introduces an important point that changes or complicates what was just said.
Why This Phrase Works: It sounds direct and conversational and immediately signals that something important is coming.
Real-World Usage Insight: This is a strong spoken-English alternative when the goal is engagement rather than formality.
Best Use: Conversations, podcasts, social media, personal writing, and informal presentations.
Avoid When: Writing formal reports, academic work, or official business correspondence.
Tone: Casual, expressive, conversational.
US vs UK Usage: Familiar in both varieties, though the exact frequency varies by speaker and context.
Example (Conversation):
“I know the apartment is smaller than the others. But here’s the thing: it’s five minutes from my office.”
Comparison Table of 10 Best Alternatives
These ten options cover the most useful situations, from formal reports to casual conversations. The strongest choice depends on whether you need contrast, qualification, diplomacy, comparison, or a simple change in emphasis.
| Phrase | Meaning | Best Use | Worst Use | Tone | US vs UK Usage |
| That said | Adds a qualification or contrast | Professional communication | Unrelated ideas | Neutral, polished | Common in both |
| However | Directly introduces contrast | Reports and formal writing | Very casual chat | Formal, precise | Common in both |
| That being said | Acknowledges a point before adding another | Meetings and discussions | Highly concise writing | Neutral, thoughtful | Common in both |
| Nevertheless | Shows something remains true despite an obstacle | Formal analysis | Casual texting | Formal, authoritative | Common in both |
| Even so | Indicates the second point still stands | Conversations and emails | Technical explanations | Conversational, balanced | Common in both |
| On the other hand | Presents another side or option | Comparisons and decisions | Minor qualifications | Neutral, explanatory | Common in both |
| At the same time | Shows two considerations can coexist | Workplace discussions | Simple contradiction | Collaborative, neutral | Common in both |
| With that in mind | Connects information to a conclusion or action | Planning and recommendations | Direct disagreement | Professional, practical | Common in both |
| Still | Shows something remains true | Everyday conversation | Formal legal writing | Casual, natural | Common in both |
| On the flip side | Introduces the opposite perspective | Blogs and social media | Formal documents | Casual, modern | Common in both |
Conclusion
“Having said that” is a versatile English expression used to acknowledge one idea before introducing a qualification, contrast, or additional perspective. It works particularly well when you want to sound balanced without completely rejecting what you have already said. In professional communication, it can help connect opinions, concerns, recommendations, and opposing considerations smoothly. However, the best alternative depends on your audience and purpose. “That said” is concise and professional, while “however” is more direct and formal. “At the same time” can sound collaborative, whereas “still” feels more natural in casual conversation.
Understanding these differences helps you communicate with greater precision and confidence. Whether you are writing an email, preparing a presentation, participating in a meeting, or having an everyday conversation, choose the transition that accurately reflects your intended relationship between ideas. Used thoughtfully, “having said that” can make your communication clearer, more nuanced, and easier to follow.
FAQs
What does “having said that” mean?
“Having said that” means despite or considering what was just mentioned, there is another point worth considering. It introduces a qualification, contrast, or additional perspective without necessarily rejecting the previous statement. For example, “The proposal is expensive. Having said that, it could save money long term.” The phrase is common in both spoken and written English.
Is “having said that” professional?
Yes, “having said that” is generally professional and neutral. It is frequently used in workplace conversations, emails, presentations, reports, and discussions. However, it has a conversational quality, so alternatives such as “however” or “nevertheless” may be more suitable for highly formal writing. The surrounding sentence also affects whether the expression sounds diplomatic, neutral, or critical.
Is “having said that” formal or informal?
“Having said that” falls between formal and informal English. It is neutral and moderately conversational, making it appropriate for professional communication as well as everyday discussions. It is less formal than “nevertheless” but more polished than expressions such as “but here’s the thing.” The appropriate choice ultimately depends on the audience, subject, and desired tone.
What is another way to say “having said that”?
Common alternatives include “that said,” “that being said,” “however,” “nevertheless,” “even so,” “on the other hand,” and “at the same time.” Each has a slightly different purpose. “However” emphasizes direct contrast, while “with that in mind” connects previous information to a decision or recommendation rather than simply introducing an opposing point.
Is “that said” the same as “having said that”?
“Yes, “that said” and “having said that” are very similar and can often be used interchangeably. Both acknowledge a previous statement before introducing a qualification or contrasting idea. “That said” is shorter and often feels more concise in professional writing. “Having said that” can sound slightly more conversational and deliberate, particularly in spoken English.
Can I use “having said that” in an email?
Yes. “Having said that” can work well in professional emails when you need to acknowledge one point before raising another. For example: “The draft looks strong. Having said that, I recommend reviewing the final section before sending it.” If the email is highly formal, “however” or “nevertheless” may provide a more precise and formal transition.
Is “having said that” grammatically correct?
Yes, “having said that” is grammatically correct. It uses a perfect participial construction to refer back to something that has just been stated. In modern English, the complete expression functions as a transition between ideas. It is normally followed by a comma when it appears at the beginning of a sentence: “Having said that, we should reconsider the timeline.”
When should you not use “having said that”?
Avoid “having said that” when the following statement has no meaningful connection to the previous one. It can also be inappropriate in highly formal or legally precise writing when a clearer relationship is required. In sensitive conversations, use it carefully because it may unintentionally sound dismissive if it immediately follows someone’s feelings or concerns.
What is the difference between “however” and “having said that”?
“However” is a more direct and formal contrast marker, while “having said that” often acknowledges the previous statement before adding nuance. For example, “The project is costly. However, it is necessary” creates a straightforward contrast. “The project is costly. Having said that, it may provide long-term savings” sounds more conversational and emphasizes qualification.
Is “having said that” common in American and British English?
Yes. “Having said that” is widely understood and used in both American and British English. There is no major difference in its core meaning between the two varieties. Regional preferences may affect which alternatives sound most natural, but expressions such as “that said,” “however,” “still,” and “on the other hand” are also familiar to speakers in both countries.
