Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
then again

then again

46 3.2
To show a different idea or possibility
  • idiom
  • Informal
translation icon : por otro lado
  • But then again, what do you care, right?

But if it's coming from guilt, then again, it's not sustainable.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • It sounds a little too obvious, but then again, I like it.

  • Then again, it's my problem, not yours, huh?

    WWJD II: The Woodcarver (2012)

  • Like if this theory is correct, but then again, also, does it matter?

    Decoding the Unknown

  • I agree, but then again, it's all up to the American people.

  • It's a good idea, but then again, you know, are people going to care?

    Meet Kevin

  • And then again, what if it did work?

    Last Action Hero (1993)

  • Then again, not many people have saved my ass.

    Fly Me to the Moon (2024)

  • But then again, that's none of my business.

  • Then again, we don't want to be rude.

    Deck the Halls (2006)

  • I think this plan could work, but then again, we need to consider the risks.

Synonyms

however
vsthen again
  • Formal
∞ 2.6

Shows a contrast with what was said before

is used more for offering a different viewpoint or an alternative possibility
rather
vsthen again
∞ 1.0

Instead of that, say or do something different

is broader, introducing a different idea or a new point of view
yet
vsthen again
899 1.0

In spite of that

is used to introduce a different idea or alternative point of view
on the other hand
vsthen again
357 2.8

Shows a different idea from what you said before

is more general in tone, introducing different ideas or possibilities
on the contrary
vsthen again
68 3.2

To say the opposite to correct a wrong idea

is less about direct correction and more about suggesting different possibilities
conversely
vsthen again
  • Formal
42 4.6

To introduce a statement that shows the opposite of what was just said

is broader, also covering different viewpoints and possible alternatives
alternatively
vsthen again
33 3.5

To suggest another option instead

is wider, also introducing opposite ideas or different points of view

Surface Forms

then again positive

Morphology

then + again

The phrase signals a qualification or contrast that relates loosely to 'again' (reconsideration) and 'then' (a connective), so knowing the constituents gives a partial clue. However, its discourse-pragmatic function as a marker meaning 'on the other hand' or 'alternatively' is not fully derivable from the literal meanings, so learners need exposure to its conversational use.

Etymology

Then again gives a simple image: you say one thing (then) and then return to the idea again to look at a different side. That's why it is used to add a second or opposite idea 'on the other hand'.