and even then

USAGE SUMMARY

"and even then" is correct and can be used in written English.
Typically, it is used to emphasize a point or to provide a contrast between two ideas. For example: I thought I had done enough work, but my teacher gave me more, and even then she wasn't satisfied.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And even then they hesitate.

The New York Times

"And even then, it wouldn't work".

The Economist

And even then there would be problems.

The Economist

And even then a crisis may strike.

The Economist

And even then Lobita couldn't sleep.

The New Yorker

And Edith interjects, "And even then".

The New York Times - Arts

And even then, they never know.

The New York Times

And even then, the tag infuriates them.

Independent

And even then opinions can differ".

The New York Times

And even then, it was not done.

The New York Times - Sports

(And even then... well, never mind).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "and even then", ensure that the preceding clause establishes a clear condition or attempt. This sets up the contrast effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "and even then" when there's no clear condition or effort established in the preceding context. The phrase is most effective when it highlights a persistent outcome despite those conditions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "and even then" functions as an adversative conjunction, introducing a statement that contrasts with or qualifies the preceding one. As Ludwig AI confirms, it connects ideas to emphasize an unexpected outcome despite certain conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "and even then" is a versatile adversative conjunction used to emphasize a contrast between an action or condition and its unexpected outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It is grammatically sound and very common, particularly in News & Media. The phrase adds emphasis and often conveys a sense of surprise. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it’s important to ensure a clear preceding condition to effectively highlight the contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but even then

This alternative puts more direct emphasis on the contrast, similar to the original phrase.

even so

This is a simpler, more direct way to indicate that something else is still true despite the previous statement.

even under those circumstances

This alternative emphasizes the specific conditions under which the subsequent event occurs.

even in that case

This phrase specifically refers to a hypothetical or previously mentioned situation.

despite that

This phrase directly contrasts the initial action or condition with the unexpected outcome.

yet still

This reinforces that something holds true, even considering the obstacle previously mentioned.

even at that point

This option emphasizes a specific moment or stage when the unexpected outcome still occurs.

nevertheless

This term is more formal and indicates a strong contrast despite the preceding statement.

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless", this suggests that the following point stands regardless of what came before.

notwithstanding that

A more formal way of saying "despite that", suitable for academic or legal contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "and even then" in a sentence?

Use "and even then" to emphasize a surprising result despite certain efforts or conditions. For example, "I studied for hours, and even then, I didn't pass the test".

What phrases are similar to "and even then"?

You can use alternatives such as "even so", "despite that", or "nevertheless" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "and even then" formal or informal?

"And even then" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although alternatives like "nevertheless" or "nonetheless" may be preferred in more formal writing.

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

While less common, "and even then" can sometimes begin a sentence for emphasis, but it's generally better placed after the clause describing the condition or effort.