even so,

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "even so," is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a contrasting statement or to indicate that something is true despite what has been previously mentioned. Example: "The weather was terrible; even so, we decided to go for a hike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even so, slim pickings.

The New Yorker

Even so, the O.C.C.

The New York Times

Even so, he's worried.

The New York Times

Even so, opinions abound.

The Economist

Even so it disappointed.

The Economist

Even so, two trucks.

Independent

Even so, opponents persist.

The New York Times

Even so, snags abound.

The Economist

Even so, the I.M.F.

The New York Times

Even so, he didn't win.

The New Yorker

Even so, MoveOn remains unapologetic.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "even so" to smoothly transition to a contrasting point, maintaining a logical flow in your writing. For example, "The task was difficult; even so, we managed to complete it on time."

Common error

Avoid inserting "even so" mid-sentence where it disrupts the flow. It's best placed at the beginning of the clause it modifies. For instance, instead of "The movie, even so, was enjoyable", write "The movie was flawed; even so, it was enjoyable."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even so" functions as a conjunctive adverb, linking two clauses or sentences. It introduces a contrast or concession, indicating that the second statement is true despite the preceding one. Ludwig examples show it in various contexts, reinforcing its role in creating a contrast.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Even so" is a conjunctive adverb used to introduce a contrasting statement, indicating that the second statement holds true despite what was mentioned before. As Ludwig AI shows, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, especially in News & Media. While alternatives like "nevertheless" and "however" exist, "even so" provides a distinct emphasis. Remember to place "even so" at the beginning of the clause to maintain a smooth flow. Ludwig's examples confirm its versatility and reliability as a linking device.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nevertheless

A formal synonym that strongly emphasizes the contrast.

nonetheless

Similar to 'nevertheless' but may imply a slightly weaker contrast.

however

A common and versatile alternative that introduces a contrasting point.

still

Indicates that something remains true despite what has been said.

yet

Similar to 'still' but can sometimes suggest a sense of surprise.

even then

Implies a condition or time frame in which the contrast exists.

despite that

Directly indicates that something happens in spite of a preceding fact.

in spite of that

Similar to 'despite that' but may carry slightly more emphasis.

that being said

Introduces a contrasting or qualifying statement after a previous point.

all the same

Emphasizes that something is true regardless of what has been mentioned.

FAQs

How can I use "even so" in a sentence?

Use "even so" to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems surprising in light of what was previously said. For example, "The team faced many challenges; "even so", they achieved remarkable success".

What are some alternatives to "even so"?

You can use alternatives such as "nevertheless", "nonetheless", or "however" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "even so" and "but"?

"Even so" is more formal and emphasizes a contrast that might seem unexpected given the previous information, while "but" is a more general and common conjunction. "The project was risky; "even so", we decided to proceed" conveys a stronger sense of unexpected continuation than "The project was risky, but we decided to proceed."

Can "even so" be used at the end of a sentence?

While less common, "even so" typically starts a clause or sentence to introduce a contrast. Ending a sentence with it can sound awkward or incomplete. It is better to rephrase or use a different construction.