all the same

phraseC12 meaningsNot compared — the two pools are counted one word at a time, so a phrase has no score

All the same means nevertheless, despite what has just been said. The point is conceded and the position does not move.

It usually sits at the end of a sentence in British speech, which is where it feels most natural, though it can open one. There is a completely separate use meaning that it makes no difference, since saying it is all the same to me means you have no preference. Those two senses share the words and nothing else. Nevertheless and even so are the formal alternatives.

Definitions of all the same

1phraseall the sameNevertheless, in spite of what has been said.C1
“It was a risk, but I would do it all the same.”
2phrasemakingMaking no difference to somebody.C1
“Tea or coffee is all the same to me.”

Practised in A Man Called Ove, Small Talk & Everyday Phrases

First appears in chapter 23 of A Man Called Ove.

Practise this word

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all the same

phraseC12 meaningsNot compared — the two pools are counted one word at a time, so a phrase has no score

All the same means nevertheless, despite what has just been said. The point is conceded and the position does not move.

Definitions of all the same

1phraseall the sameNevertheless, in spite of what has been said.C1
“It was a risk, but I would do it all the same.”
2phrasemakingMaking no difference to somebody.C1
“Tea or coffee is all the same to me.”

Practised in A Man Called Ove, Small Talk & Everyday Phrases

First appears in chapter 23 of A Man Called Ove.

Practise this word