Definition

Having said that is an English conjunction used to introduce a contrasting idea or qualification after making a statement. It means “however,” “nevertheless,” or “despite what has just been said.” This phrase softens a counterpoint, making discourse more polite and balanced.

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˌhævɪŋ ˈsɛd ðæt/
Stress: The primary stress falls on “said” (/ˈsɛd/), with secondary stress on “hav-ing.” It’s pronounced as a smooth phrase in connected speech: HAH-ving SED that. Listen to native speakers on audio dictionaries to hear the natural flow.

Morphology and Grammar Notes

This is a fixed idiomatic phrase derived from the present perfect participle “having said” (gerund form of “have said”) followed by “that,” which introduces the clause. Morphologically, it’s not a single word but a participial construction acting as an adverbial phrase.

Grammar: It functions as a discourse marker in formal and semi-formal writing or speech. Place it at the start of a sentence or after a comma in the middle, followed by a contrasting statement. It’s invariable—no changes for tense, number, or gender. Common in British English but widely used globally.

Examples

  • Simple: I love summer. Having said that, the heat can be overwhelming.
  • Medium: The book was entertaining, having said that, the plot twists felt predictable at times.
  • Complex: Although the team trained hard for months, having said that, their performance under pressure revealed several weaknesses that could have been addressed earlier.

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Common Combinations

Synonyms: that said, that being said, however, nevertheless, nonetheless.
Antonyms: (for contrast) furthermore, additionally, moreover—these add rather than oppose ideas.
Common combinations: Often pairs with concessions like “I agree, having said that…” or follows positives: “It’s affordable, having said that, quality varies.”

Interesting Facts and Cultural Features

Originating in 19th-century English literature (first noted around 1826 in legal texts), “having said that” reflects British politeness in debate, allowing speakers to acknowledge one view while pivoting gracefully—think parliamentary discussions or BBC interviews. It’s less common in casual American English, where “but” or “anyway” might substitute, but it’s gaining popularity in global business communication for hedging opinions.

Tips to Learn It Easier

  • Practice by journaling: After stating an opinion, add “having said that” and a counterpoint to build fluency.
  • Watch TED Talks or debates; note how speakers use it to transition ideas smoothly.
  • Mnemonic: Think “I’ve spoken (said), but now that (the flip side).” Repeat in pairs: positive statement + phrase + contrast.
  • Avoid overuse in informal chats; it’s best for essays, emails, or presentations to sound sophisticated.

Mini-Tasks for Practice

  • Make a sentence: Write one using “having said that” to contrast your favorite food with a drawback.
  • Find a synonym: Replace “having said that” in the simple example above with a synonym and explain why it fits.
  • Spot in context: Read a news article and rewrite a paragraph, inserting the phrase to add nuance.
  • Quiz yourself: What’s the stress syllable? Pronounce it aloud three times, then use it in conversation.