Even then

USAGE SUMMARY

"even then" is perfectly acceptable and is often used in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is true despite certain conditions or events. For example: Even then, I saw the potential in the business venture.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Even then".

The New York Times

Even then, crowds linger.

The New York Times

"Even then," he said.

The New Yorker

Even then, things looked ominous.

The New York Times

Even then, problems could arise.

The New York Times

Even then, things went wrong.

The New York Times

Even then, it's pretty close.

The Economist

Even then still not sure.

The New York Times

Even then the scams continued.

The Economist

Even then it would fail.

The New York Times

Even then, it ended intentionally.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "even then" to introduce a surprising or unexpected outcome following a condition or event. It's useful for emphasizing that something remains true despite what might be expected.

Common error

Avoid using "even then" when simply stating a sequence of events without a sense of contrast or surprise. Ensure there's a clear connection between the preceding situation and the statement introduced by "even then".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even then" functions as an adverbial phrase that introduces a concessive element, highlighting that something is true or happens despite a previous condition or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and frequent use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "even then" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adverbial phrase that introduces a concessive element. As Ludwig AI explains, it emphasizes that something is true or happens despite a prior condition or expectation. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, and its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse writing styles. When using "even then", ensure a clear contrast between the preceding situation and the statement it introduces for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even at that point

Replaces "then" with "at that point" to emphasize a specific moment in time.

even so

A more concise alternative, conveying a similar sense of concession.

yet still

Highlights the continuing truth despite an obstacle or condition.

nevertheless

A formal synonym that expresses contrast or concession.

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless" but slightly less formal.

despite that

Emphasizes the contrast between a preceding situation and the current one.

in spite of that

Similar to "despite that", highlighting the unexpected outcome.

at the time

Focuses on a specific moment, implying that something held true at that moment.

even in those circumstances

Highlights specific conditions that did not prevent the statement from being true.

still

A simple word to indicate continuation or persistence despite something.

FAQs

How is "even then" used in a sentence?

"Even then" is used to indicate that something remains true or occurs despite a previous condition or situation. For example, "The weather was terrible, but "even then", we enjoyed our vacation".

What are some alternatives to "even then"?

Alternatives to "even then" include "even so", "nevertheless", "nonetheless", or "despite that". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is there a difference between "even then" and "even now"?

Yes, "even then" refers to a past time, indicating something was true at that past moment despite certain conditions. "Even now" refers to the present, suggesting something is true presently despite existing circumstances.

Can "even then" be used at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, "even then" can be used at the beginning of a sentence, often to emphasize the unexpected nature of the statement that follows. For example, "Even then, he refused to give up".