それにしても

A discourse marker used to express that, despite what has been said, the speaker is surprised or unsettled by a new point, often with a sense of “even so,” “nevertheless,” or “in spite of that.” It bridges two statements, emphasizing the speaker’s reaction or the unexpected nature of the subsequent remark. Use it when you want to signal that the following comment is surprising, contrasts with what was expected, or when you’re mildly or strongly reacting to what was just stated. It’s common in spoken Japanese and can carry a soft, ironic, or emphatic tone depending on context and intonation. Examples: - 今日は忙しかった。それにしても、会議は思ったより早く終わった。 → Today was busy. Nevertheless, the meeting ended earlier than I expected. - 彼は遅刻した。それにしても、連絡ぐらいは入れてほしい。 → He was late. All the same, I wish he would at least text to let us know. - こんな天気とは。にわか雨が降りそうだが、それにしても傘を持っていくべきだ。 → With weather like this, a sudden rain seems likely; still, you should take an umbrella. (Note: sentence demonstrates tone; natural usage would be: それにしても、こんな天気で傘を持っていくべきだ。)