For all its flaws

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "For all its flaws" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to acknowledge the imperfections of something while still recognizing its value or merits. Example: "For all its flaws, the movie managed to convey a powerful message about resilience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For all its flaws, it is the best economic system man has invented yet.

The Economist

For all its flaws, it's the only exception to paralysis and polarization in Washington.

The New Yorker

For all its flaws, it feels like an alarm going off.

The New Yorker

For all its flaws and mis-steps, it represents not just economic and military might, but an ideal to aspire to, in a way that China does not.

The Economist

For all its flaws, the work's ambitions hearten.

The New York Times

For all its flaws, this is an important book.

The Economist

For all its flaws, please don't let faith be next.

The Guardian - Opinion

For all its flaws this work remains a valuable contribution.

The New York Times - Books

For all its flaws, part of me still agrees.

The Guardian - Film

For all its flaws, the movie, filmed with nonprofessional actors, is steadily gripping.

The New York Times

For all its flaws, their argument runs, AK has made Turkey a more democratic place.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "For all its flaws" to introduce a balanced perspective, acknowledging weaknesses before highlighting strengths or overall value. This approach can enhance credibility and show objectivity.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "For all its flaws". Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "For all its flaws" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the main clause to express concession or contrast. It introduces a qualifying statement that acknowledges imperfections before presenting a more positive or balanced view, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "For all its flaws" is a commonly used adverbial phrase that effectively concedes imperfections while highlighting positive qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalence across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for formal writing, it is generally considered neutral in register. Alternatives such as "despite its imperfections" or "notwithstanding its shortcomings" offer nuanced variations in emphasis. By balancing objectivity, "For all its flaws" can enhance credibility and provide a more balanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Despite its imperfections

This alternative directly contrasts the flaws with the overall positive assessment.

Notwithstanding its shortcomings

This alternative presents a slightly more formal tone, highlighting the act of disregarding the deficiencies.

Even with its limitations

This alternative focuses on the constraints and boundaries, rather than the defects themselves.

In spite of its defects

This alternative is a direct synonym, offering a slightly stronger emphasis on the negative aspects before the positive.

With all its faults

This alternative emphasizes the presence of multiple faults or imperfections.

Acknowledging its weaknesses

This alternative highlights the recognition and acceptance of vulnerabilities.

Granting its imperfections

This alternative conveys a sense of concession or agreement about the existence of flaws.

Its imperfections notwithstanding

This alternative offers a more formal and emphatic way of saying 'despite its imperfections'.

While recognizing its limitations

This alternative emphasizes simultaneous awareness of both the strengths and weaknesses.

Though it has blemishes

This alternative uses a more metaphorical term ("blemishes") to describe imperfections, softening the tone.

FAQs

How can I use "For all its flaws" in a sentence?

Use "For all its flaws" to acknowledge imperfections before presenting positive aspects. For example, "For all its flaws, the movie managed to convey a powerful message."

What are some alternatives to "For all its flaws"?

You can use alternatives like "despite its imperfections", "notwithstanding its shortcomings", or "even with its limitations" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "For all its flaws" in formal writing?

Yes, "For all its flaws" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider more formal alternatives like "notwithstanding its shortcomings" or "its imperfections notwithstanding" for a more sophisticated tone.

What is the difference between "For all its flaws" and "Despite its flaws"?

While similar, "For all its flaws" often implies a more comprehensive assessment, acknowledging both positive and negative aspects. "Despite its flaws" /s/despite+its+flaws simply highlights that something is still good or acceptable despite having imperfections.