HSK 7
(不过/但/可是 话又说回来,⋯⋯)
( bú guò / dàn / kě shì huà yòu shuō huí lái , ⋯ ⋯ )
The structure '话又说回来' to add an opposing viewpoint
Explanation
"话又说回来" (huà yòu shuō huí lái) is a colloquial construction (口语格式, a template used in speech) with a shift-of-view function, used to introduce an additional opposite or supplementary perspective to what was just said; it means "but then again", "come to think of it, though".
(不过/但/可是) (bùguò / dàn / kěshì) + 话又说回来 (huà yòu shuō huí lái) ,+ [the counterbalancing viewpoint being weighed]. It usually stands at the head of the clause, after a shift-of-view word.
in conversation, when having just stated one idea and then wanting to balance oneself with another perspective for greater objectivity and thoroughness.
"话又说回来" emphasizes returning to view both sides in a balanced way; different from "反过来说" (fǎn guò lái shuō, "conversely"), which emphasizes flipping entirely to the opposite side. "话又说回来" is softer and more reflective.
using it as a purely adversative conjunction like "但是" (making the shift too abrupt and losing the "reconsidering" nuance); using it in formal writing (this is colloquial, suited to speech).
Examples
But then again, you can't lose hope just because you're ill.
But then again, why can't we handle the matter in a way that's more advantageous to us?
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “(不过/但/可是 话又说回来,⋯⋯)” effectively
The grammar point “(不过/但/可是 话又说回来,⋯⋯)” (The structure '话又说回来' to add an opposing viewpoint) is one of the key structures at HSK 7. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.