Alternatives to “having said that” include “that said,” “however,” “nevertheless,” “even so,” and “on the other hand.” They all introduce some kind of contrast or qualification, but they do not always mean exactly the same thing.
Choose the Transition by Type of Contrast
- That said
- However
- Nevertheless
- Nonetheless
- Even so
- Still
- On the other hand
- At the same time
- With that in mind
- All the same
- Then again
- Despite that
- Be that as it may
- For all that
- Yet
How Each Transition Works
That said
The closest concise substitute when you want to qualify or partly counter what you just said. Example: The plan is expensive. That said, it may save money in the long term.
However
A versatile formal transition introducing a contrast, exception, or limitation. Example: The first trial was promising. However, the sample was small.
Nevertheless
Signals that the next point remains true despite what was just stated. Example: The route is longer. Nevertheless, it is usually more reliable.
Nonetheless
Very close to “nevertheless,” with the same despite-that meaning. Example: The evidence is limited. Nonetheless, the pattern is worth investigating.
Even so
Natural and slightly less formal when the second point holds despite the first. Example: The weather was poor. Even so, the event attracted a large crowd.
Still
Concise and conversational, often used to introduce a reservation or counterpoint. Example: I understand the reason. Still, the delay is frustrating.
On the other hand
Introduces an alternative consideration or opposing side of an issue rather than merely a qualification. Example: Remote work saves travel time. On the other hand, some people miss face-to-face contact.
At the same time
Useful when two apparently competing points are both true. Example: The change creates new opportunities. At the same time, it brings additional risk.
With that in mind
Links the next point to the previous one as a consideration, not necessarily a direct contradiction. Example: The budget is limited. With that in mind, we should prioritize essential work.
All the same
Means “despite that,” often with a conversational or literary tone. Example: It was a difficult decision. All the same, it was the right one.
Then again
Introduces a reconsideration or another perspective, usually informally. Example: We could leave early. Then again, traffic may be lighter later.
Despite that
Makes the logical relationship explicit when the second point contrasts with an obstacle or negative fact. Example: The launch was delayed. Despite that, sales exceeded expectations.
Be that as it may
Formal or rhetorical wording meaning that the previous point is accepted but does not change what follows. Example: The explanation may be understandable. Be that as it may, the rule still applies.
For all that
A literary or formal way to mean “despite everything just mentioned.” Example: He can be difficult. For all that, he is exceptionally loyal.
Yet
A compact conjunction or sentence adverb introducing a surprising contrast. Example: The task looks simple, yet it requires considerable skill.
Closest Alternatives to the Original Phrase
“That said” is usually the nearest direct replacement for “having said that.” However and nevertheless are stronger formal transitions, while on the other hand is better when you are explicitly presenting another side of an argument.