ENGLISH
REFERENCE

then again

idiom
Meaning

From another point of view; on the other hand; on second thought; again.

Examples
SIMPLE

I want to go out, but then again, I am very tired.

CONTEXTUAL

The price is quite high, but then again, the quality is much better than the cheaper options.

COMPLEX

He considered accepting the generous offer immediately, but then again, he realized that moving across the country would require significant personal sacrifices.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    come again

    A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.

  2. 02

    here we go again

    An expression of frustration upon seeing or hearing something bad repeated.

  3. 03

    now and again

    Synonym of occasionally, sometimes, intermittently.

  4. 04

    once again

    Again, once more, one more time.

  5. 05

    one more again

    One more time; once again.

  6. 06

    over and over again

    Repeatedly; again and again; many times.

  7. 07

    say again

    "What did you say?" or "Repeat what you have said." A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said.

  8. 08

    you can say that again

    That is very true.

Last updated April 17, 2026