saying that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "saying that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a statement that is related to the one you just mentioned. For example, "The big game was a success. Saying that, I think we should plan another one soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Saying that was considered heresy.

The New York Times

"Saying that, it is exciting".

Independent

Saying that is easy enough, however.

Independent

And saying that was shameful, too.

The New Yorker

Are you seriously saying that?

BBC

"Can you imagine Macy's saying that?

Forbes

I am not saying that is venal.

Forbes

Are you saying that figure is incorrect?

Science Magazine

"In saying that, we've needed to.

BBC

"Nobody's saying that.

The New York Times

He's not saying that.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "saying that" to smoothly introduce a contrasting or qualifying point that relates to the previous statement, ensuring a logical flow of ideas.

Common error

Avoid placing a comma directly before "saying that" when it functions as a conjunctive adverb. The comma typically follows the phrase: "It was a difficult decision; saying that, we believe it was the right one."

Linguistic Context

"Saying that" functions as a conjunctive adverb or phrase, connecting two related but potentially contrasting ideas. It introduces a statement that qualifies, clarifies, or provides a counterpoint to what has been previously stated. Ludwig examples show its frequent use in news articles and general discourse.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase "saying that" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed conjunctive phrase, predominantly used to bridge related but contrasting ideas. Its strength lies in its ability to introduce a qualification, clarification, or counterpoint to a preceding statement smoothly. Predominantly featured in news and media, as shown by Ludwig's analysis of a wide range of sources, this construction maintains a neutral formality, making it ideal for maintaining a balanced flow of information across diverse communication channels. Use it wisely to enhance your writing with subtle yet effective transitions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that said

A more concise and informal way of expressing a contrasting point.

having said that

Emphasizes the contrast or qualification more explicitly.

with that being said

Adds a slightly more formal tone and emphasis on the preceding statement.

in that regard

Focuses specifically on the aspect just mentioned.

on that note

Indicates a transition to a related but slightly different topic.

that being the case

Highlights the logical consequence of the previous statement.

in light of that

Introduces a conclusion or action based on the preceding information.

considering that

Presents the preceding statement as a reason or justification.

given that

Similar to "considering that" but with a slightly stronger emphasis.

even so

Indicates that despite what was just said, the following statement still holds true.

FAQs

How can I use "saying that" in a sentence?

"Saying that" is used to introduce a statement that qualifies or contrasts with a previous one. For example, "The project was successful. "Saying that", there were some challenges we had to overcome."

What's the difference between "saying that" and "having said that"?

"Having said that" often carries a slightly more formal tone and emphasizes the completion of the initial statement before introducing the contrasting point, while "saying that" can be more conversational.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "saying that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "saying that" when used as a conjunctive adverb to connect the current sentence with a previous thought. It's often followed by a comma.

What are some alternatives to using "saying that"?

Alternatives include "that said", "even so", or "nonetheless", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.