Are you talking to a friend? You might hear them use "that being said" in the conversation. What does this statement mean, and why are they using it?
This post unpacks everything you need to know about this idiomatic phrase's origin, meaning, and use.
That Being Said Meaning
The meaning of "that being said" is a rendition of the more traditional term, "that having been said." However, while "that being said" is the less grammatically correct of the two examples, it's the more common phrase used in modern language.
"That being said" is grammatically incorrect because the prior sentence occurs in the past tense, and the use of "being said" in the phrase implies a sense of simultaneity.
"That being said," "that said," and "having said that" act as a segway to a statement reversing its spin, on what the speaker previously said in the conversation.
"Having said that" acts as a transitional conversational phrase, and it's gaining traction in modern language. You probably hear it all the time in conversations with friends and at work. When someone says, "Having said that," it's a signal that they are about to issue a contrasting opinion to what you have to say.
The phrase is also popular online in chats and message boards. However, many people will ridicule you due to the formality of the phrase. "That being said" is an irritating phrase to many people, and it makes the speaker sound pompous and arrogant in many scenarios.
"That being said" lets the other person know that you are about to move away from the topic of discussion to make a point.
That Being Said Example Usage
"I went to the meeting last night, and it wasn't anything like I expected. That being said, I left and went home."
"With that being said, I think it's time to get the heck out of here."
"That being said, I don't know if it's the right way to approach the situation."
"That being said, I think it's time for me to make my exit before everyone gets angry at me."
That Being Said Origin
No one really knows the origin of the phrase, "that being said." Some language experts say it appears in the early 20th century as a rebuttal or rebuke of a statement.
The phrase gained popularity in 2010 and peaked through 2016. It's still in use today, and you probably hear people use it all the time in media.
The phrase started appearing in memes between 2010 to 2012, and it's a popular phrase to use on message boards when accompanied by a meme. People find the use of the idiomatic expression irritating in language, and you should avoid using it where you can.
Phrases Similar to That Being Said
- That being the case.
- With that in mind.
Phrases Opposite to That Being Said
- As a consequence.
- Subsequently.
What is the Correct Saying?
- That being said.
- That said.
Ways People May Say That Being Said Incorrectly
Many people overuse this word in conversation, causing frustration to other people. It's one of those terms in English, like "I digress," that tend to irritate people when you use it. It has a somewhat pompous tone to it, and people may ridicule you for using the phrase in everyday conversation.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase That Being Said
You can use "that being said" as a substitute for "I digress." The phrase allows you to pivot from a point, making a counter statement to what you said. Typically, "that being said," is more popular for use in professional settings than in social conversations.