10 Formal Synonyms for “With That Being Said”
Communicating effectively is crucial, whether it’s in writing or speaking. The phrase “with that being said” is commonly used to transition between ideas, but it can sometimes feel repetitive or too casual.
This article introduces ten formal alternatives to this phrase, perfect for a variety of professional and academic contexts. These alternatives will help make your communication clearer and more engaging.
Is It Formal to Say “With That Being Said”?
The phrase “with that being said” falls into a gray area of formality. It’s not too casual, but there are certainly more formal ways to transition your thoughts. This phrase works best in situations where you’ve presented information or an argument and you’re about to give a conclusion or an additional point that builds on what was already mentioned.
Here’s an example of how it might be used in an email:
Dear Team, We've seen a significant increase in our sales figures this quarter, which is a clear indicator of our team's hard work and dedication. With that being said, we need to focus on customer service to ensure that our client satisfaction matches our sales performance. Best, Tom Clifford
Let’s look at the pros and cons of using this phrase:
Pros:
- It smoothly connects thoughts or sections of your conversation or writing.
- It signals a summary or conclusion, making it clearer for the audience.
- It’s widely understood, even if not the most formal option.
Cons:
- It can be seen as less formal, which might not fit all professional settings.
- The phrase is quite common and might come across as overused or unimaginative.
- In written communication, it could be viewed as a filler, not adding real value.
Given these points, one might consider using an alternative phrase to “with that being said.” If you’re looking for a more formal tone or to avoid repetition, exploring synonyms could freshen up your language. Sometimes, the context in which you’re communicating—be it a highly professional report or a scholarly article—might demand a level of formality that encourages the use of alternatives.
10 Other Ways to Say “With That Being Said”
Switching up your language can make your speaking or writing sound more interesting. Here are ten formal alternatives to “with that being said” that you can use.
- Therefore
- Consequently
- Thus
- Accordingly
- In light of this
- As such
- Hence
- In conclusion
- By extension
- Given these points
1. Therefore
Therefore is a synonym that signifies a logical conclusion similar to “with that being said.” It’s used in formal and professional writing or speaking to introduce a conclusion drawn from the information just presented. This alternative is particularly useful in academic, research, and professional documents where logical progression and clarity are key.
We recommend using therefore in contexts where you want to highlight a direct cause-and-effect relationship. It is less conversational than “with that being said” and adds an element of formality and professionalism to your communication.
Here are examples of how to use “therefore”:
Our team has consistently exceeded quarterly targets, therefore, they will be receiving bonuses for their exceptional performance.
The project deadline was moved up, therefore, we need to expedite our work process to meet the new schedule.
2. Consequently
Consequently is another formal synonym that emphasizes the result or outcome of something mentioned previously. It is ideal for use in professional settings where you need to show a clear connection between events or statements.
This alternative suits situations where the outcome or result is not just a reflection but a significant consequence of the actions taken. Consequently is more about causality and less about simple sequencing, which adds depth to your conclusion.
Here are examples of how to use “consequently”:
Due to the overwhelming support from our sponsors, consequently, our event will feature additional workshops.
The system upgrade is not compatible with older models, consequently, users may experience difficulties unless they update their devices.
3. Thus
This implies a conclusion or result with high formality. It’s a sophisticated alternative that is commonly found in written documents, especially in academic and professional fields. “Thus” neatly ties earlier points to a logical outcome.
When precision and formality are needed, we recommend “thus.” It’s particularly suited for documents or speeches where you’re building an argument or presenting findings. “Thus” signals the end of a thought process and the beginning of its implication.
Sample uses of “thus” are detailed below:
The new policy will save the company money, thus, it is in our best interest to implement it without delay.
Research indicates increased productivity from remote work, thus, considering a more flexible work policy could be beneficial.
4. Accordingly
The word accordingly is used to indicate that something is in alignment with what has been mentioned before. It is a formal synonym that is often used in legal, professional, and academic writing.
When you want to align actions with the previously stated facts or policies, “accordingly” is a formal and professional choice. It indicates that the next steps or conclusions are based directly on the prior statements.
Examples to demonstrate “accordingly” in use are:
The committee has reviewed the budget discrepancies and, accordingly, recommends revising the financial forecast.
Feedback from the survey suggests a high demand for the course, accordingly, additional sessions will be scheduled.
5. In light of this
In light of this is a synonym that introduces a conclusion or action that takes into account the information previously provided. It’s less about direct causality and more about considering or reflecting upon earlier details.
This phrase is apt when you’re summarizing or moving towards a conclusion that takes the previous discussion into account, without implying a direct cause-and-effect relationship. It’s polite and formal, suitable for professional discussions that require tact.
For example, “in light of this” can be used as:
In light of this data, we must reconsider our approach to market analysis.
In light of this feedback, improving customer service protocols will be our priority.
6. As such
As such is a formal synonym that implies being “in that manner” or “therefore.” It bridges statements where the second directly reflects the nature or outcome of the first. It’s a bit less formal than “thus” but still holds significant professional weight.
Use “as such” when linking an observation or fact to a directly related conclusion or action. It’s suitable in professional contexts where you’re drawing a direct but not overly technical conclusion.
Here’s how “as such” might appear in professional communication:
The report confirms the project is ahead of schedule. As such, scaling down the additional resources could be considered.
She is the leading expert in her field, as such, her insights will be invaluable to the team.
7. Hence
Hence, similar to “thus” and “therefore,” is used to introduce a logical result or conclusion. It’s highly formal and often appears in academic writings, legal documents, and professional speeches. “Hence” effectively showcases a sophisticated transition from analysis to conclusion.
“Hence” fits best in situations where there’s a need to sound authoritative and intellectual. It offers a high degree of formality and is perfect for arguments or presentations that draw heavily on logic and evidence.
Using “hence” in sentences:
The study's findings are conclusive, hence, a change in policy is recommended.
Energy costs have been rising, hence, investing in renewable sources is prudent.
8. In conclusion
The phrase “In conclusion” explicitly signals the end of a discussion and the start of a summarized point or final thoughts. It’s highly formal and is most frequently used in speeches, presentations, and academic writings where a clear end to an argument is required.
When summarizing or offering final thoughts after a lengthy discussion or presentation, “in conclusion” is appropriate. It assures listeners or readers that a summarizing statement or end point is coming.
Examples of “in conclusion” in action are:
In conclusion, the proposed solution addresses the core issues effectively.
In conclusion, our team's achievements reflect their hard work and dedication.
9. By extension
“By extension” is used to expand upon a thought or idea previously mentioned, showing its broader implications or applications. While not a direct synonym to “with that being said,” it serves a similar purpose of transitioning and adding information. It’s suitable for sophisticated and formal discussions.
This alternative is well-suited when you’re expanding on an idea to apply it more broadly or to introduce additional, related consequences. It elevates the discussion by providing logical progression.
See “by extension” used below:
This technology will increase efficiency, and by extension, profitability.
By extension, improving product quality will enhance customer satisfaction.
10. Given these points
“Given these points” is a formal way to summarize and transition to a conclusion based on the assembled facts or arguments. It’s scholarly in tone, making it ideal for academic or highly professional settings.
When summing up a complex argument or series of observations, “given these points” serves to remind the audience of the basis for the ensuing conclusion. It’s thorough and helps ensure clarity and comprehension in dense or detailed discussions.
Example:
Given these points, it's clear that further research is needed.
Given these points, we recommend a strategic shift to digital marketing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right words matters a lot in how we express our ideas. “With that being said,” while useful, can become too common and lessen the impact of what we’re trying to say.
The ten alternatives we’ve discussed offer formal and polished options to help make your point more effectively. By mixing up your language, you can keep your writing or speech interesting and professional.