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."
そうは言っても、無理だよ。
Even so, it's impossible.
忙しい。そうは言っても、休みは必要だ。
I'm busy. That said, I still need a break.
予算は限られている。そうは言っても、質を下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:
- そうは言っても、現実は厳しい: that said, reality is harsh
- そうは言っても、やるしかない: even so, we have no choice but to do it
SIMILAR WORDS:
- とはいえ: even so — more formal and written
- それでも: even so; nevertheless — emphasizes persistence despite the obstacle