そうは言(い)っても

そうはいっても
expression
having said that; even so; that said
expression
1. having said that; even so; that said; but still
A conjunctive expression used to acknowledge what was just stated and then introduce a qualification or opposing point. It softens a shift to a contrary view, like English "that said" or "even so."
そうは言(い)っても、無理(むり)だよ。
Even so, it's impossible.
忙(いそが)しい。そうは言(い)っても、休(やす)みは必要(ひつよう)だ。
I'm busy. That said, I still need a break.
予算(よさん)は限(かぎ)られている。そうは言(い)っても、質(しつ)を下(さ)げるわけにはいかない。
The budget is limited. Having said that, we can't lower the quality.

Literally "even if (one) says so," used to grant a previous point before pushing back against it. Typically stands at the head of a sentence, followed by the speaker's reservation.

Usage

Similar words

  • とはいえ: even so — more formal and written
  • それでも: even so; nevertheless — emphasizes persistence despite the obstacle

Related Words

Compare: とはいえ (even so)
Compare: それでも (even so)
Compare: とはいうものの (having said that, although, nevertheless)
general
Added 2026.6.27 9:21 · Revised 2026.9.30 22:21
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