とは言うものの

とは言うものの is used to acknowledge a preceding claim or expectation, then introduce a contrast or reservation. It adds a nuance of “having said that, ...,” often softening a direct contradiction or showing a reluctant concession. It can appear after a statement of someone’s belief, plan, or evaluation, and then pivot to a more cautious or opposite point. The tone is typically mildly concessive or surprised, and it is common in both spoken and written Japanese. It tends to be used when the speaker wants to admit something true about the situation, while still pointing out limitations, exceptions, or counterpoints. Examples convey a sense of weighing pros and cons without fully dismissing the previous remark. Example sentences: - 高いとは言うものの、この品質なら納得できる。 (Having said that it is expensive, with this quality I can accept it.) - 彼は説明が丁寧だとは言うものの、結論はまだ出ていない。 (He is said to be thorough in explanations, but the conclusion hasn’t been reached yet.) - 試合には勝てるとは言うものの、簡単ではない。 (We may win the game, but it won’t be easy.)