even for that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "even for that" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to emphasize and/or show agreement with a point that has just been made. For example, "I would have done the project sooner, but I had a lot of other things on my plate--even for that, I should have made more time for it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And maybe not even for that.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it's too late - far too late - even for that.

The Guardian - Books

Local people perform only unskilled physical work on the line, and they're grateful even for that.

The New York Times

Some acquired documents by bribing local officials; others were too poor even for that.

The Economist

By the time Celia dies, he's too insulated even for that.

The New York Times - Arts

My family is tolerant but not especially accepting, and I am fortunate even for that.

The Guardian

But he added that it could be too late even for that.

The New York Times

To stare at people who aren't bothering anybody?" Most laughed, but some couldn't stop watching him even for that.

The New Yorker

But as she waits for her turn to buy chicken, Ledezma doubted they could come together even for that.

The Guardian

For a moment, Mr. Dupuy turned his thoughts to relief efforts, before deciding that it was too soon even for that.

The New York Times

Those too lazy even for that had taken rinkside seats at one of the little wooden huts that line the square.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "even for that" to express surprise or concession, emphasizing that something is unexpected given the circumstances. It often adds a layer of emphasis to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "even for that" when a simpler conjunction like "but" or "however" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound stilted. Ensure it genuinely adds emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even for that" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause to express surprise or concession in relation to a preceding statement. It emphasizes the unexpected nature of something, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "even for that" is a versatile phrase used to express surprise or concession. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While neutral in register, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid overuse. Consider alternatives such as "despite that" or "even so" to maintain variety in your writing. Remember that the core function of "even for that" is to add emphasis and highlight the unexpected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even so

Indicates that something is true despite what has been said.

even with that

Highlights that something occurs despite existing conditions.

despite that

Directly indicates something happening regardless of a previous point.

in spite of that

Similar to 'despite that', emphasizing a contrast.

considering that

Suggests something is surprising given the circumstances.

given that

Focuses on the surprising nature of a situation.

notwithstanding that

A more formal way to express 'despite that'.

even then

Emphasizes that something remains true at a specific time.

still

A concise way to indicate something happening regardless.

yet

Highlights contrast or unexpectedness.

FAQs

How can I use "even for that" in a sentence?

Use "even for that" to express surprise or concession in light of a previous statement. For example, "The task was difficult, "even for that" experienced team."

What are some alternatives to "even for that"?

You can use alternatives like "despite that", "even so", or "in spite of that" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "even for that" versus a simpler conjunction?

"Even for that" is best when you want to emphasize surprise or concession. Simpler conjunctions like "but" or "however" are suitable when you only need to indicate contrast without the additional emphasis.

Is "even for that" formal or informal?

"Even for that" is generally considered neutral in register and can be used in most writing contexts. More formal alternatives include "notwithstanding that".