Quick Definition
Having said that means:
Despite what was just mentioned, there is another important point to consider.
It functions similarly to phrases such as however, nevertheless, that said, even so, and still.
Featured Snippet Answer
Having said that is an English discourse marker used to introduce a contrasting or balancing idea after making a statement. It signals that the speaker recognizes the previous point but wants to add an exception, limitation, or different viewpoint.
Example:
The project was expensive. Having said that, it delivered excellent results.
In this sentence, the speaker admits the project cost a lot but also highlights its success.
Why Do People Use “Having Said That”?
Communication is rarely black and white. Often, we make one statement and then realize another point deserves consideration.
This is where having said that becomes useful.
The phrase allows you to:
- Add balance to an argument
- Show nuance in discussion
- Introduce an exception
- Avoid sounding overly absolute
- Connect opposing ideas smoothly
- Create a professional and thoughtful tone
For example:
Working remotely offers flexibility. Having said that, some employees collaborate better in an office environment.
The speaker acknowledges both sides rather than taking an extreme position.
The Grammar Behind “Having Said That”
From a grammatical perspective, having said that is a participial phrase.
The structure comes from:
Having + past participle
Examples:
- Having finished the report
- Having completed the task
- Having said that
Historically, the phrase literally meant:
“After saying that…”
Over time, it evolved into a fixed expression used as a sentence connector or transitional phrase.
Today, native speakers rarely analyze its grammar. They simply use it to signal contrast.
Sentence Pattern
Statement 1 + Having said that + Statement 2
Example:
The restaurant is quite expensive. Having said that, the food is outstanding.
How to Use “Having Said That” Correctly
The phrase typically appears between two related statements.
Pattern 1: At the Beginning of a Sentence
This is the most common placement.
Examples:
- The training program takes several months. Having said that, the skills gained are valuable.
- Traveling abroad can be stressful. Having said that, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
- The software has a steep learning curve. Having said that, it offers powerful features.
Pattern 2: In Formal Writing
Business reports, academic discussions, and professional emails often use the phrase.
Example:
Customer satisfaction increased during the quarter. Having said that, response times remain slower than industry standards.
Pattern 3: In Spoken English
Native speakers use it frequently during conversations, interviews, and presentations.
Example:
“I don’t completely agree with the proposal. Having said that, I understand why management supports it.”
Real-Life Examples of “Having Said That”
Understanding authentic usage helps learners sound more natural.
Workplace Examples
- The deadline is challenging. Having said that, the team believes it can be achieved.
- Sales declined last month. Having said that, annual revenue remains strong.
- The presentation needs improvement. Having said that, the research is excellent.
Academic Examples
- The study sample was relatively small. Having said that, the findings were statistically significant.
- Online learning has limitations. Having said that, it improves accessibility for many students.
Everyday Conversation Examples
- The movie was long. Having said that, I enjoyed every minute.
- It was a difficult year. Having said that, we learned a lot.
- The weather wasn’t perfect. Having said that, the trip was fantastic.
Professional Email Example
Thank you for your proposal. The budget is currently limited. Having said that, we are interested in exploring future opportunities for collaboration.
Is “Having Said That” Formal or Informal?
One of the most common questions concerns formality.
The phrase occupies a middle ground between formal and informal English.
| Context | Appropriate? | Notes |
| Business emails | Yes | Common and professional |
| Reports | Yes | Frequently used |
| Academic writing | Usually | Depends on style guide |
| Presentations | Yes | Sounds polished |
| Interviews | Yes | Natural and professional |
| Casual conversation | Yes | Common among native speakers |
| Text messages | Less common | Simpler alternatives often preferred |
Tone Analysis
The phrase sounds:
- Thoughtful
- Balanced
- Diplomatic
- Professional
- Reasonable
It helps speakers avoid sounding rigid or argumentative.
“Having Said That” vs. Similar Expressions
Many English learners confuse this phrase with other transition words.
Comparison Table
| Expression | Meaning | Formality | Best Use |
| Having said that | Introduces a contrasting point | Medium-High | Professional communication |
| However | Direct contrast | High | Academic and formal writing |
| That said | Similar meaning | Medium | Modern writing and speech |
| Nevertheless | Strong contrast | High | Formal arguments |
| Even so | Contrast despite circumstances | Medium | Conversation and writing |
| Still | Simpler contrast | Medium-Low | Everyday speech |
| On the other hand | Alternative viewpoint | Medium | Comparisons |
| Nonetheless | Similar to nevertheless | High | Formal contexts |
Example Comparison
Having said that
The product is expensive. Having said that, it offers excellent value.
However
The product is expensive. However, it offers excellent value.
That said
The product is expensive. That said, it offers excellent value.
All are correct, but the tone differs slightly.
Best Alternatives to “Having Said That”
Using the same phrase repeatedly can make writing feel repetitive.
Consider these alternatives:
Formal Alternatives
- However
- Nevertheless
- Nonetheless
- Notwithstanding
- Be that as it may
Examples:
- The evidence is limited. Nevertheless, the findings are useful.
- The process is complex. Nonetheless, it remains effective.
Professional Alternatives
- That said
- Even so
- At the same time
- On the other hand
Examples:
- The project exceeded budget. That said, it achieved its objectives.
- The solution is expensive. Even so, many companies adopt it.
Conversational Alternatives
- Still
- Then again
- Even then
Examples:
- It was tiring. Still, it was worth it.
- The plan has risks. Then again, every strategy carries some uncertainty.
Common Mistakes When Using “Having Said That”
Many learners understand the meaning but misuse the phrase.
Mistake 1: Using It Without Contrast
Incorrect:
I love coffee. Having said that, I drink coffee every morning.
There is no contrasting idea.
Correct:
I love coffee. Having said that, I try not to drink too much of it.
Mistake 2: Overusing It
Repeating the phrase several times in a short article weakens your writing.
Poor Example:
The service was slow. Having said that, the food was good. Having said that, the location was convenient. Having said that, the staff were friendly.
Better:
Mix alternatives like:
- however
- still
- that said
- nevertheless
Mistake 3: Using It for Unrelated Ideas
Incorrect:
I bought a new laptop. Having said that, my favorite color is blue.
The ideas are unrelated.
Correct:
I bought a new laptop. Having said that, I may return it because the battery life is disappointing.
Mistake 4: Incorrect Punctuation
Correct:
- Having said that, the proposal deserves consideration.
- The proposal is costly. Having said that, the benefits are substantial.
The phrase is usually followed by a comma when it starts a sentence.
Why Native Speakers Like Using “Having Said That”
Native English speakers often avoid extreme statements.
The phrase helps them sound:
- Open-minded
- Fair
- Analytical
- Diplomatic
- Professional
For example:
Instead of saying:
“The plan is bad.”
A native speaker might say:
“The plan has several weaknesses. Having said that, it addresses some important concerns.”
This sounds more balanced and persuasive.
In business communication, leadership discussions, journalism, and public speaking, such balanced language is highly valued.
“Having Said That” in Professional Communication
The phrase is especially useful in workplaces because it softens disagreement.
During Meetings
“I understand the reasoning behind the proposal. Having said that, there may be budget concerns.”
During Performance Reviews
“Your communication skills are strong. Having said that, meeting deadlines remains an area for improvement.”
During Negotiations
“Your offer is competitive. Having said that, we’d like to discuss the delivery schedule.”
During Presentations
“The market remains uncertain. Having said that, growth opportunities still exist.”
These examples demonstrate diplomacy and professionalism.
“Having Said That” in Academic Writing
Academic writers often need to acknowledge limitations while maintaining credibility.
Examples include:
- discussing research limitations
- evaluating evidence
- comparing theories
- presenting counterarguments
Example
The sample size was limited. Having said that, the study provides valuable insights into consumer behavior.
Why It Works
Academic writing values critical thinking.
The phrase helps writers:
- recognize weaknesses
- present balanced arguments
- maintain objectivity
- improve coherence
However, some academic style guides may prefer alternatives such as however or nevertheless because they are slightly more formal.
People Also Ask: Common Questions About “Having Said That”
Is “having said that” grammatically correct?
Yes. It is a grammatically correct and widely accepted English transition phrase used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement.
What is another way to say “having said that”?
Common alternatives include:
- however
- that said
- nevertheless
- nonetheless
- even so
- still
- on the other hand
Is “having said that” formal?
It is moderately formal. It works well in business writing, professional emails, presentations, and everyday conversation.
Can I start a sentence with “having said that”?
Yes. This is actually the most common usage.
Example:
Having said that, we should consider other options.
Is “having said that” the same as “however”?
They are very similar, but having said that sounds slightly more conversational and acknowledges the previous statement more explicitly.
Do native speakers use “having said that”?
Yes. Native English speakers frequently use it in spoken and written English, especially when presenting balanced opinions.
Should I use a comma after “having said that”?
Yes. When it appears at the beginning of a sentence, it is typically followed by a comma.
Example:
Having said that, the proposal still deserves attention.
Can “having said that” be used in emails?
Absolutely. It is common in professional email communication because it introduces disagreement politely.
Is “that said” more modern than “having said that”?
Many writers consider that said slightly shorter and more modern, but both remain widely used.
Can I use “having said that” in essays?
Yes. It can improve flow and coherence when presenting balanced arguments, although some academic contexts may prefer however or nevertheless.
Final Thoughts
Having said that is one of the most useful transition phrases in English. It allows speakers and writers to acknowledge one point while introducing another that modifies, balances, or contrasts with it. Because communication often involves nuance rather than certainty, the phrase helps create a thoughtful and professional tone.
Whether you’re writing a business email, giving a presentation, participating in a meeting, composing an essay, or simply having a conversation, having said that can make your language sound more natural, balanced, and persuasive. Used correctly, it strengthens clarity, improves flow, and demonstrates the kind of sophisticated communication that native English speakers use every day.
