but even that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but even that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to introduce something that contrasts with what was said before. For example: I wanted to stay home all day and relax, but even that was too much for me.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But even that isn't enough.

The New York Times

But even that poses challenges.

The New York Times

But even that is unclear.

The Economist

But even that is telling.

The New York Times - Sports

But even that was progress.

The New York Times

But even that could change.

The New York Times

But even that is uncertain.

The Economist

But even that counts.

Stanford University

But even that is not enough.

The New York Times

But even that statistic is rather odd.

Independent

But even that could be in flux.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but even that" to introduce a surprising or unexpected contrast to something previously stated. It works best when the initial statement sets an expectation that is then challenged.

Common error

Avoid using "but even that" when the contrasting statement is a logical or expected consequence of the first. The phrase is most effective when highlighting an unexpected or surprising outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but even that" serves as a transitional phrase to introduce a contrast or unexpected twist to a preceding statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights a situation where one might expect a certain outcome, but reality presents a different scenario. This connective function helps to guide the reader through a logical progression, marking a shift in perspective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but even that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrast or unexpected element following a previous statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, especially in News & Media and Academic contexts. When writing, ensure that the contrasting statement is not a direct consequence of the previous one, but rather something surprising. Consider alternatives like "but despite that" or "however, even then" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but despite that

Replaces 'even' with 'despite', emphasizing a stronger sense of contrast.

but in spite of that

Emphasizes the contrast by using 'in spite of' instead of 'even'.

however, even then

Adds 'however' for a more formal tone and 'then' for temporal emphasis.

yet, even so

Uses 'yet' and 'so' for a slightly different stylistic effect while maintaining the core meaning.

but nevertheless

Replaces the entire phrase with a single adverb, 'nevertheless', for conciseness.

yet regardless

Combines 'yet' and 'regardless' for a stronger sense of contradiction.

even with that said

Introduces a slightly more conversational tone, emphasizing the act of having said something.

but that being said

Similar to "even with that said", this phrase has a conversational feel.

even following that

Adds a temporal element, suggesting something happens after the previous statement.

but with all that

Introduces a tone of acknowledging all previous factors before presenting a contrast.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but even that" in a sentence?

The phrase "but even that" is used to introduce a contrast, suggesting that despite what was previously mentioned, something else remains true or becomes relevant. For example: "The team practiced diligently, but even that wasn't enough to secure the victory."

What are some alternatives to "but even that"?

Alternatives to "but even that" include "but despite that", "however, even then", or "yet, even so". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to start a sentence with "but even that"?

While starting a sentence with "but even that" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound less formal. Consider whether the "but" adds value, or if "even that" alone would suffice.

How does "but even that" differ from "even though"?

"But even that" introduces a contrast to a preceding statement, whereas "even though" introduces a contrasting element within the same clause. "Even though" sets up a condition, while "but even that" provides a reaction to a prior fact.