Synonyms of but still, such as however, nevertheless, yet, and even so, express contrast â a shift from one idea to another that partly contradicts or softens the previous statement. For example, âhoweverâ fits formal writing, while âbut stillâ and âeven soâ sound more conversational.
If youâre writing essays, emails, or creative pieces, the right synonym for but still helps you show contradiction, hesitation, or persistence with the right tone.
These, but still synonyms, not only make your writing smoother but also give you control over tone â from polite disagreement to emotional resilience.
What Does âBut Stillâ Mean?
But still is a transitional phrase used to introduce a contrast, especially when acknowledging something before presenting an opposing idea. It can express contradiction, persistence, or hesitation.
âBut stillâ can show:
- Contrast: Opposing a previous point
- Persistence: Continuing despite a reason not to
- Emotion: Regret, hesitation, or insistence
Think of but still as a way to say, âEven though thatâs true, thereâs another side.â
Synonyms for âBut Stillâ (With Meanings, Usage & Examples)
1. However
Meaning: Used to introduce a contrasting statement.
When to Use: Formal or neutral writing.
Example: The project was risky; however, the team decided to continue.
2. Nevertheless
Meaning: Despite what has just been said.
When to Use: Formal; often in essays or speeches.
Example: It was raining; nevertheless, they played soccer.
3. Yet
Meaning: Indicates contrast or unexpected continuation.
When to Use: Concise, poetic, or conversational writing.
Example: The evidence was clear, yet he refused to believe it.
4. Still
Meaning: Despite a previous statement.
When to Use: Simple and direct; fits both speech and writing.
Example: The movie got bad reviews; still, I enjoyed it.
5. Even So
Meaning: Despite that; it introduces persistence.
When to Use: Conversational or reflective tone.
Example: The odds were low; even so, she didnât give up.
6. Nonetheless
Meaning: In spite of that, used for logical contrast.
When to Use: Academic or professional writing.
Example: The task was difficult; nonetheless, it was completed on time.
7. Though
Meaning: Introduces a mild contrast.
When to Use: Informal; often placed at sentence end.
Example: I didnât win the contest. It was fun, though.
8. All the Same
Meaning: Despite what has been said.
When to Use: Conversational or reflective.
Example: Itâs late; all the same, we should finish this work.
9. Even Though
Meaning: Despite the fact that.
When to Use: Connects two full ideas in one sentence.
Example: Even though she was tired, she finished the assignment.
10. Despite That
Meaning: Used to show contradiction.
When to Use: Neutral or slightly formal.
Example: The warning was clear; despite that, they went ahead.
11. In Spite Of That
Meaning: Similar to âdespite that.â
When to Use: Formal or narrative writing.
Example: He failed twice; in spite of that, he kept studying.
12. On the Other Hand
Meaning: Introduces the opposite view.
When to Use: Balanced essays or analytical writing.
Example: The plan saves money; on the other hand, it reduces quality.
13. Be That as It May
Meaning: Acknowledge something but continue with another point.
When to Use: Formal or persuasive tone.
Example: Be that as it may, the results are still impressive.
14. Even Then
Meaning: Refers to persistence after a previous situation.
When to Use: Narrative or descriptive writing.
Example: She knew the truth. Even then, she chose silence.
15. Yet Still
Meaning: Double emphasis on contrast.
When to Use: Emotional or expressive writing.
Example: He apologized, yet still, she couldnât forgive him.
16. Regardless
Meaning: Without being affected by something.
When to Use: Direct and neutral.
Example: Regardless, we must continue our efforts.
17. At the Same Time
Meaning: Shows two simultaneous but contrasting facts.
When to Use: Balanced discussions or essays.
Example: The city is expensive; at the same time, it offers great jobs.
18. Even After That
Meaning: Continuation in spite of an earlier event.
When to Use: Storytelling or emotional reflection.
Example: Even after that loss, he stayed determined.
19. Still and All
Meaning: Despite everything, an old-fashioned variation.
When to Use: Creative or nostalgic writing.
Example: It was a rough year; still and all, we made it through.
20. Notwithstanding
Meaning: In spite of; similar to âdespite.â
When to Use: Legal, formal, or literary tone.
Example: Notwithstanding his efforts, the plan failed.
21. After All
Meaning: Considering everything said earlier.
When to Use: Reflective or persuasive tone.
Example: She might be wrong, but after all, everyone makes mistakes.
22. Though Still
Meaning: Adds contrast while keeping connection.
When to Use: Transitional or narrative writing.
Example: He was honest, though still a little naĂŻve.
23. Despite Everything
Meaning: Against all odds.
When to Use: Emotional or motivational writing.
Example: Despite everything, she managed to smile.
24. All However
Meaning: A subtle shift from agreement to contrast.
When to Use: Rare; poetic or rhetorical usage.
Example: The logic seems sound, all however, the outcome feels uncertain.
25. That Said
Meaning: Acknowledges the previous point but offers balance.
When to Use: Essays, articles, or debates.
Example: The data is promising; that said, we must test it further.
26. Still Though
Meaning: Adds a casual or emotional twist.
When to Use: Informal conversations.
Example: Heâs annoying. Still, though, I canât stay mad at him.
27. Even Then Again
Meaning: Reintroduces contrast after agreement.
When to Use: Creative writing.
Example: She forgave him; even then, the pain lingered.
28. For All That
Meaning: Despite what has been mentioned.
When to Use: Literary or historical tone.
Example: For all that she suffered, she never lost hope.
29. Though Yet
Meaning: Combines acknowledgment with contradiction.
When to Use: Poetic or old-fashioned tone.
Example: He was silent, though yet his eyes spoke volumes.
30. Still However
Meaning: Emphasizes persistence despite logic.
When to Use: Emotional or reflective writing.
Example: The facts were clear; still however, she doubted the truth.
How to Choose the Right Synonym for âBut Stillâ
The right synonym depends on your tone, context, and audience:
- Formal / Academic: Nevertheless, Nonetheless, Notwithstanding, However
- Conversational / Casual: Still, Even so, Though, All the same
- Emotional / Reflective: Even then, despite everything, yet still
- Balanced or Analytical Writing: That said, on the other hand, at the same time
Each version changes the rhythm and mood of your writing â so match the word to your intent.
Conclusion
The synonyms of but still help writers express contradiction, persistence, and emotional nuance. Words like however, yet, and even so keep your sentences smooth and natural, while nevertheless and notwithstanding add formal precision.
Using the right synonym ensures your writing sounds clear, confident, and context-appropriate â whether youâre making a persuasive argument, narrating a story, or simply adding emotional contrast.
