1
Counter an obstacle
Show that a conclusion holds despite a preceding difficulty.
Example
The route was longer. All the same, it proved safer.
all the same
/ˌɔːl ðə ˈseɪm/ · AWL thuh SAYMconcession phrase
Nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
Use all the same to signal this exact relationship between ideas: nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
What all the same Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Maintain a judgment
Retain an evaluation after acknowledging contrary evidence.
Example
The evidence is incomplete; all the same, the pattern is striking.
3
Resume a course
Proceed despite a reason not to.
Example
Rain threatened the survey, but the team continued all the same.
Use all the same Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The route was longer. All the same, it proved safer.
The evidence is incomplete; all the same, the pattern is striking.
Rain threatened the survey, but the team continued all the same.
Precision Matters
All the same overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
all the same
vs.Signals nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
nevertheless
Means in spite of what was just stated.
all the same
vs.Signals nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
admittedly
Means as must be acknowledged; used to concede a point before qualifying it.
all the same
vs.Signals nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
accordingly
Means therefore, or in a way that corresponds to the circumstances.
all the same
vs.Signals nevertheless; despite the point or difficulty just mentioned.
at the same time
Means simultaneously; also used to introduce a balancing qualification.
Test all the same in Context
The team proceeds despite the disadvantage just acknowledged.
1
The revised route added twelve kilometres. ___, the team chose it because it avoided the flooded valley.