Cách Sử Dụng That Said Concession Trong IELTS - Bí Quyết Ghi Điểm Writing & Speaking » IELTS.NET

“That said” là một trong những cụm từ chuyển tiếp (transitional phrase) quan trọng giúp thí sinh IELTS thể hiện khả năng nhượng bộ (concession) một cách tinh tế và tự nhiên. Cấu trúc này đặc biệt hữu ích trong Speaking Part 3 khi bạn cần đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng, và trong Writing Task 2 khi phát triển luận điểm phức tạp.

Mục lục nội dung

Theo phân tích từ các bài thi IELTS thực tế, “that said” và các cấu trúc concession tương tự xuất hiện với tần suất cao trong:

Speaking: Part 2 và Part 3 (đưa ra ý kiến cân bằng, thừa nhận mặt trái của vấn đề)
Writing Task 2: Opinion essays, Discussion essays, Advantage/Disadvantage essays
Reading: Nhận diện để hiểu luận điểm phản biện của tác giả

Ví dụ vận dụng trong IELTS:

Speaking Part 3 (Discussing education):
“Online learning offers great flexibility and accessibility. That said, it cannot fully replace the social interaction that traditional classrooms provide.”
→ Phân tích: Thừa nhận ưu điểm trước (flexibility) + “That said” + đưa ra hạn chế (social interaction)

Writing Task 2 (Opinion essay):
“Technology has revolutionized communication, making it faster and more convenient. That said, this convenience has led to a decline in face-to-face interactions.”
→ Phân tích: Nêu lợi ích (revolutionized) + “That said” + chuyển sang mặt tiêu cực

Speaking Part 2 (Describing experience):
“My hometown has developed rapidly with modern infrastructure and facilities. That said, I sometimes miss the peaceful atmosphere it used to have.”
→ Phân tích: Khẳng định sự phát triển + “That said” + thể hiện sự tiếc nuối

Writing Task 2 (Balanced argument):
“Working from home eliminates commuting time and reduces costs. That said, employees may struggle with work-life balance.”
→ Phân tích: Lợi ích cụ thể + “That said” + vấn đề phát sinh

Speaking Part 3 (Giving opinion):
“Young people today have access to vast amounts of information through the internet. That said, they often lack the critical thinking skills to evaluate this information properly.”
→ Phân tích: Nhận định tích cực + “That said” + quan điểm phản biện

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học:

✅ Định nghĩa và ý nghĩa của concession với “that said”
✅ Công thức chi tiết với thành phần câu
✅ Cách vận dụng vào 4 kỹ năng IELTS
✅ 25+ câu ví dụ Band 7-9
✅ Các cụm từ tương đương để tránh lặp từ
✅ Lỗi thường gặp và cách tránh
✅ Bài tập thực hành với đáp án chi tiết

“That Said” Concession Là Gì?

Định Nghĩa

“That Said” là một cụm từ chuyển tiếp (transitional phrase) được sử dụng để giới thiệu một ý kiến hoặc thông tin đối lập, bổ sung, hoặc giới hạn (concession/contrast) với những gì vừa được nêu trước đó. Đây là một công cụ ngữ pháp quan trọng giúp thí sinh thể hiện tư duy phản biện và khả năng nhìn nhận vấn đề từ nhiều góc độ.

Chức năng chính:

Thừa nhận một quan điểm/sự thật trước đó nhưng đưa ra góc nhìn đối lập hoặc bổ sung
Tạo sự cân bằng trong lập luận, thể hiện tư duy phê phán
Làm mềm ý kiến phản đối một cách lịch sự và học thuật
Kết nối hai ý tưởng trái ngược một cách mạch lạc

Khi nào dùng trong IELTS:

Speaking Part 3: Khi examiner hỏi về hai mặt của vấn đề hoặc yêu cầu đánh giá cân bằng
Writing Task 2: Trong đoạn văn thể hiện quan điểm đối lập hoặc acknowledge counterarguments
Tạo độ phức tạp: Giúp tăng điểm Grammatical Range and Accuracy và Coherence and Cohesion

Tần Suất Xuất Hiện Trong IELTS

Theo phân tích từ Cambridge IELTS 10-19:

Speaking:

Part 1: Thấp – Câu hỏi thường đơn giản, không yêu cầu concession phức tạp
Part 2: Trung bình – Có thể dùng khi mô tả hai khía cạnh của trải nghiệm
Part 3: Cao – Thường xuyên cần thiết khi thảo luận về ưu/nhược điểm, so sánh, hoặc đánh giá

Writing:

Task 1: Rất thấp – Chủ yếu miêu tả dữ liệu, ít cần concession
Task 2: Rất cao – Đặc biệt quan trọng trong Opinion, Discussion, và Advantage/Disadvantage essays

Listening/Reading:

Xuất hiện thường xuyên trong academic contexts
Cần nhận diện để hiểu chính xác luận điểm của người nói/tác giả
Thường báo hiệu sự thay đổi hướng trong lập luận

Band Score Impact:

Band 6: Sử dụng các liên từ cơ bản như “but,” “however” nhưng thiếu sự tinh tế
Band 7: Biết dùng “that said” và các cụm tương đương nhưng có thể chưa tự nhiên
Band 8-9: Sử dụng linh hoạt nhiều cụm concession khác nhau, tự nhiên, chính xác về ngữ nghĩa

Công Thức & Cấu Trúc

Công Thức Cơ Bản

📌 CÔNG THỨC CHÍNH:

[Statement 1 (Point A)]. That said, [Statement 2 (Contrasting/Limiting Point)].

Ví dụ: Online education offers unprecedented accessibility. That said, it requires strong self-discipline from learners.

Thành phần câu:

Statement 1 (Câu phát biểu đầu tiên): Một ý kiến, sự thật, hoặc quan điểm được nêu rõ ràng. Thường là điểm tích cực hoặc quan điểm chính bạn muốn bảo vệ
“That said”: Cụm từ chuyển tiếp đứng đầu câu thứ hai, sau dấu chấm hoặc dấu chấm phẩy, theo sau bởi dấu phẩy
Statement 2 (Câu phát biểu thứ hai): Ý kiến đối lập, hạn chế, hoặc bổ sung cho Statement 1. Thường là điểm tiêu cực, ngoại lệ, hoặc điều kiện

Ví dụ phân tích chi tiết:

Câu: “Remote work increases productivity for many employees. That said, some people struggle with isolation and lack of structure.”

Phân tích:

Statement 1: “Remote work increases productivity for many employees” (Quan điểm tích cực về làm việc từ xa)
Concession marker: “That said” (Dấu hiệu chuyển hướng)
Statement 2: “some people struggle with isolation and lack of structure” (Hạn chế/vấn đề phát sinh)
Mục đích: Thừa nhận lợi ích nhưng cũng chỉ ra thách thức, thể hiện tư duy cân bằng

Các Biến Thể

Dạng chuẩn (sau dấu chấm):
“Electric vehicles produce zero emissions. That said, their production process still has environmental impacts.”

Dạng với dấu chấm phẩy:
“Technology has made education more accessible; that said, the digital divide remains a significant challenge.”

Dạng trong đoạn văn dài:
“Many argue that globalization benefits economies worldwide by increasing trade and investment opportunities. That said, critics point out that it can also lead to job losses in certain sectors and widening income inequality.”

Dạng kết hợp với các cấu trúc khác:
“While social media connects people across the globe, that said, it has also contributed to the spread of misinformation and polarization.”
(Kết hợp “while” clause với “that said” để tạo độ phức tạp cao hơn)

Các Cụm Từ Tương Đương

Để tránh lặp từ và tăng Lexical Resource, bạn có thể thay thế “that said” bằng:

Cụm từ	Mức độ formal	Ví dụ	Ghi chú
That being said	Formal	“Renewable energy is ideal. That being said, implementation costs remain high.”	Tương đương hoàn toàn với “that said”
Having said that	Formal	“Tourism boosts the economy. Having said that, it can damage local culture.”	Phổ biến trong Academic English
Nevertheless	Very formal	“The policy has benefits. Nevertheless, it faces strong opposition.”	Formal hơn, thích hợp cho Writing
Nonetheless	Very formal	“The research is promising. Nonetheless, more studies are needed.”	Tương tự “nevertheless”
However	Neutral-Formal	“Technology improves efficiency. However, it creates new challenges.”	Phổ biến nhất, an toàn cho mọi context
Even so	Neutral	“The plan seems perfect. Even so, unexpected problems may arise.”	Hơi informal hơn
Still	Neutral	“The evidence is strong. Still, some experts remain skeptical.”	Đơn giản, tự nhiên
Yet	Formal	“The method is proven effective. Yet, implementation requires careful planning.”	Ngắn gọn, mạnh mẽ

Sơ đồ minh họa cấu trúc that said concession với hai mệnh đề đối lập và các cụm từ thay thế trong IELTS

Cách Vận Dụng Vào IELTS

Speaking

Part 1 – Introduction & Interview:

Ít sử dụng ở Part 1 vì câu hỏi thường đơn giản và ngắn. Tuy nhiên, nếu muốn gây ấn tượng:

Topic: Hometown

Q: “Do you like living in your hometown?”
A: “Yes, I really enjoy living there because it’s peaceful and has great amenities. That said, I sometimes find it a bit too quiet, especially compared to bigger cities where there’s more entertainment.”
→ Phân tích: Thể hiện khả năng đánh giá cân bằng ngay từ Part 1, tạo ấn tượng tốt

Part 2 – Long Turn:

Cue card example:
“Describe a technological device you find useful.”

Sample answer (excerpt):
“I’d like to talk about my smartphone, which has become an indispensable part of my daily life. It helps me stay connected with friends and family, manage my schedule, and access information instantly. That said, I’m aware that I’ve become somewhat dependent on it, and I sometimes struggle to focus on tasks without checking notifications. Despite this drawback, the benefits far outweigh the negatives, as it has genuinely improved my productivity…”

→ Phân tích:

Thừa nhận ưu điểm rõ ràng trước
Dùng “that said” để chuyển sang nhược điểm
Cho thấy tư duy phản biện
Sau đó quay lại quan điểm chính để kết luận

Part 3 – Discussion:

Đây là phần quan trọng nhất để sử dụng “that said.”

Typical question:
Q: “Do you think technology has improved people’s lives?”

Band 7-8 Answer:
“Absolutely. Technology has revolutionized almost every aspect of modern life, from healthcare to education to communication. We can now access information instantly, work remotely, and connect with people across the globe. That said, these advances have also created new problems. For instance, many people spend too much time on screens, which affects their physical and mental health. Additionally, automation threatens certain jobs, creating economic uncertainty for many workers. So while technology has undoubtedly improved our lives in many ways, we need to be mindful of its potential drawbacks.”

→ Band 8+ features:

Clear position followed by supporting points
Natural use of “that said” to introduce counterargument
Multiple examples supporting both sides
Sophisticated vocabulary (revolutionized, automation, uncertainty)
Balanced conclusion showing critical thinking

Another Part 3 example:
Q: “Should governments invest more in public transportation?”

A: “I believe they should because public transportation reduces traffic congestion and pollution, making cities more livable. Having said that, these systems require massive investment and ongoing maintenance, which can strain government budgets. In developing countries especially, this funding might be better allocated to other priorities like healthcare or education. So the answer depends on each country’s specific circumstances and needs.”

→ Phân tích: Sử dụng “having said that” (biến thể) để tránh lặp, thể hiện sự cân nhắc về bối cảnh khác nhau

Writing Task 2

Khi nào dùng:

Acknowledge counterarguments trong Opinion essays
Present balanced views trong Discussion essays
Discuss limitations trong Advantage/Disadvantage essays
Show critical thinking trong bất kỳ essay type nào

Opinion Essay

Topic: Some people believe that universities should focus on preparing students for employment, while others think the true function of universities is to provide knowledge for its own sake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Body Paragraph (Band 8 sample):

“Proponents of vocational education argue that universities should prioritize practical skills that directly translate to career success. In today’s competitive job market, graduates need technical expertise and professional competencies to secure employment and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Many students also incur significant debt to finance their education and expect a tangible return on this investment. That said, this purely utilitarian approach overlooks the broader purpose of higher education. Universities have historically served as centers of intellectual inquiry, where students develop critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world. These qualities, while not immediately marketable, are essential for long-term career adaptability and personal fulfillment. Moreover, society benefits when citizens are educated in humanities, arts, and sciences beyond narrow vocational training.”

→ Phân tích:

Paragraph bắt đầu với một viewpoint (vocational focus)
Cung cấp reasons và examples support
“That said” giới thiệu counterargument
Develop opposing view thoroughly
Shows sophisticated argumentation structure

Discussion Essay

Topic: Some people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve, while others believe that individuals can make a difference. Discuss both views.

Body Paragraph 1:

“It is understandable why many people feel powerless in the face of global environmental challenges. Climate change, deforestation, and ocean pollution are systemic issues that require coordinated action from governments and corporations. Individual efforts like recycling or using less plastic may seem insignificant compared to industrial emissions and large-scale environmental destruction. Nevertheless, dismissing individual action entirely is shortsighted. While one person’s choices may have limited impact, collective individual action can drive substantial change. When millions of consumers choose sustainable products, companies are forced to adapt their practices. Furthermore, individual actions raise awareness and create social pressure for policy changes.”

→ Vận dụng: “Nevertheless” (synonym của “that said”) được dùng để chuyển từ quan điểm 1 sang quan điểm 2 một cách mạch lạc

Advantage/Disadvantage Essay

Topic: Many people are choosing to live alone nowadays. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Advantages Paragraph:

“Living alone offers considerable freedom and independence. Individuals can organize their living space according to personal preferences, maintain their own schedules without compromise, and enjoy privacy and quiet time for personal development. This autonomy is particularly valuable for young professionals who need flexibility for career advancement or individuals recovering from difficult relationships. That being said, these benefits come with significant drawbacks that cannot be ignored. Social isolation is a growing concern, as people living alone often lack the daily emotional support and companionship that shared living provides. This can lead to loneliness, mental health issues, and a reduced sense of community belonging.”

→ Phân tích: “That being said” tạo cầu nối tự nhiên từ advantages sang disadvantages trong cùng một đoạn (hoặc giữa hai đoạn)

Problem/Solution Essay

Topic: In many countries, the amount of waste produced by households and industries is increasing. What are the causes of this problem, and what measures could be taken to solve it?

Solution Paragraph:

“Governments should implement stricter regulations on packaging and manufacturing processes, requiring companies to minimize waste and use recyclable materials. Extended Producer Responsibility programs, where manufacturers are responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, have proven effective in several European countries. However, regulation alone is insufficient without changing consumer behavior. Educational campaigns and incentives are needed to encourage households to reduce consumption, properly sort waste, and choose sustainable products.”

→ Vận dụng: “However” (synonym) shows that government action needs to be complemented by citizen participation

Ví dụ minh họa đoạn văn Writing Task 2 IELTS sử dụng that said để kết nối luận điểm và phản biện

Sample Paragraphs Band 7-9

Band 7 Sample (Technology topic):

“Social media platforms have transformed how people communicate and share information. They allow individuals to stay connected with friends and family regardless of geographical distance, and provide businesses with powerful marketing tools. That said, there are growing concerns about privacy and data security. Many companies collect and sell user data without proper consent, and cyberbullying has become a serious problem, especially among young people. Therefore, while social media offers many benefits, users should be aware of these risks and take appropriate precautions.”

Phân tích Band 7:

Sử dụng “that said” chính xác
Clear main idea và supporting points
Vocabulary tốt (transformed, geographical distance, cyberbullying)
Coherence rõ ràng
Conclusion hợp lý
Để đạt Band 8+: Cần more sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentences, và deeper analysis

Band 8-9 Sample (Education topic):

“The proliferation of online learning platforms has democratized education, granting unprecedented access to knowledge for learners across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Students in remote areas can now attend lectures from world-renowned professors, and working professionals can upskill without sacrificing their careers. This accessibility has the potential to address educational inequality and foster lifelong learning. That said, the efficacy of online education hinges on factors often overlooked in enthusiastic adoption narratives. The absence of face-to-face interaction diminishes opportunities for spontaneous discussion and collaborative problem-solving, skills crucial in professional contexts. Moreover, effective online learning demands considerable self-motivation and digital literacy—prerequisites that disadvantaged learners may lack, potentially exacerbating rather than alleviating educational disparities. Thus, while online platforms represent a significant pedagogical advancement, their implementation must be accompanied by comprehensive support structures to ensure equitable outcomes.”

Phân tích Band 8-9:

Complex sentence structures (The absence of…, Moreover, effective…)
Sophisticated vocabulary (proliferation, democratized, unprecedented, efficacy, hinges, pedagogical)
Natural use of “that said” để introduce nuanced counterargument
Deep critical analysis (points out assumptions in “enthusiastic adoption narratives”)
Smooth coherence and cohesion
Balanced and insightful conclusion
Topic-specific collocations (educational inequality, lifelong learning, digital literacy)

Nâng Cao – Cách Dùng Để Đạt Band 8+

Kết Hợp Với Các Cấu Trúc Khác

“That said” + Conditional sentences:

“Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are becoming increasingly cost-effective. That said, if governments fail to invest in necessary infrastructure and storage technology, the transition away from fossil fuels will remain incomplete.”
→ Band 8+ features: Kết hợp concession với conditional type 1 để chỉ ra điều kiện cụ thể

“That said” + Passive voice:

“Significant progress has been made in reducing global poverty rates over the past two decades. That said, these improvements have been unevenly distributed, and millions of people continue to be affected by extreme poverty.”
→ Sophistication: Passive voice (has been made, have been distributed, continue to be affected) tạo tone academic

“That said” + Relative clause:

“Artificial intelligence, which has revolutionized industries from healthcare to finance, promises even greater innovations in the coming years. That said, the ethical implications of AI decision-making, which often operates as a ‘black box’ that even experts cannot fully explain, require urgent attention.”
→ Complexity: Non-defining relative clauses nested within concession structure

“That said” + Participle clause:

“Having witnessed remarkable economic growth over the past decade, China has lifted millions out of poverty. That said, this development has come at a considerable environmental cost, leaving many regions struggling with severe air and water pollution.”
→ Advanced: Perfect participle + concession + present participle creates sophisticated flow

“That said” + Modal verbs for speculation:

“Genetic engineering could potentially eliminate hereditary diseases and extend human lifespan. That said, such technologies might also create unforeseen consequences, possibly leading to ethical dilemmas regarding ‘designer babies’ and increased social inequality.”
→ Advanced usage: Modal verbs (could, might, possibly) show nuanced academic speculation

Cụm Từ Nâng Cao

Academic collocations với concession structures:

Collocation	Ví dụ	Band Level
merit recognition/consideration	“The proposal merits recognition for its innovative approach. That said, practical implementation poses significant challenges.”	7+
warrant/merit attention	“These findings warrant attention from policymakers. Nevertheless, they should be interpreted with caution.”	7+
notwithstanding + noun phrase	“Notwithstanding these benefits, the approach has fundamental limitations.”	8+
albeit + adjective/adverb	“The solution is effective, albeit expensive and time-consuming.”	8+
for all its/their merits	“For all its merits, remote work cannot completely replace traditional office environments.”	8+
this is not to say that…	“Online education offers flexibility. This is not to say that traditional classrooms have become obsolete.”	8-9
while acknowledging that…	“While acknowledging that technology brings benefits, we must also address its drawbacks.”	8-9
granted/admittedly + clause	“Admittedly, the policy has reduced emissions. That said, the economic impact has been severe.”	9

Ví dụ sử dụng trong context:

“The government’s infrastructure initiative merits recognition for its ambitious scope and potential economic benefits. That said, the environmental impact assessments, albeit comprehensive, have overlooked several critical ecosystems.”
→ Band 9 features: “merits recognition” + “that said” + “albeit” creates multiple layers of concession

Câu Phức & Ghép

Tích hợp vào câu phức với multiple clauses:

“Although technology has undeniably brought tremendous benefits to modern society, that said, we must acknowledge that these advantages have been accompanied by significant social challenges, including increased screen addiction among young people and the erosion of face-to-face communication skills, which, if left unaddressed, could undermine the very social fabric that technology was meant to enhance.”

→ Phân tích cấu trúc:

Although clause (concession 1)
That said (concession marker)
Multiple embedded clauses
Non-defining relative clause
Conditional element
Advanced vocabulary throughout

Parallel structure với “that said”:

“Globalization has facilitated the exchange of ideas, accelerated economic development, and promoted cultural understanding. That said, it has also contributed to the homogenization of cultures, widened the gap between rich and poor nations, and created vulnerabilities in global supply chains.”

→ Band 8+ features: Parallel verb phrases on both sides of concession create sophisticated balance

So Sánh Với Cấu Trúc Tương Tự

“That said” vs “However”

Tiêu chí	That said	However
Công thức	Statement 1. That said, Statement 2.	Statement 1. However, Statement 2.
Ý nghĩa	Concession sau khi thừa nhận điểm trước (softer)	Direct contrast, đối lập mạnh hơn
Formal level	Formal-very formal	Neutral-formal
Tone	Diplomatic, acknowledging	Straightforward contrasting
Ví dụ	“The policy is beneficial. That said, implementation will be challenging.”	“The policy is beneficial. However, it faces opposition.”
IELTS usage	Excellent for showing critical thinking	Safe choice, widely applicable

Khi nào dùng cấu trúc nào:

Dùng “that said” khi bạn muốn thừa nhận một điểm tích cực trước khi chỉ ra hạn chế, hoặc khi muốn thể hiện tư duy nuanced
Dùng “however” khi bạn muốn đối lập rõ ràng hai ý kiến hoặc khi viết introduction/conclusion

“That said” vs “Although/Despite”

Tiêu chí	That said	Although/Despite
Vị trí	Giữa hai câu độc lập	Trong cùng một câu (subordinating)
Cấu trúc	Independent sentences	Dependent + independent clause
Ví dụ	“AI is powerful. That said, it has limitations.”	“Although AI is powerful, it has limitations.”
Emphasis	Nhấn mạnh cả hai ý ngang bằng	Nhấn mạnh main clause hơn
Flexibility	Có thể đảo ngược thứ tự khó hơn	Có thể đảo dependent clause dễ dàng

Khi nào dùng:

“That said”: Khi muốn present hai ý độc lập, đặc biệt khi Statement 1 đã khá dài
“Although/Despite”: Khi muốn subordinate một ý và integrate chặt chẽ trong một câu

“That said” vs “Nevertheless/Nonetheless”

Tiêu chí	That said	Nevertheless/Nonetheless
Formality	Formal	Very formal (academic)
Connotation	Balanced acknowledgment	Strong determination despite obstacles
Usage frequency	Common in spoken and written	More common in formal writing
Ví dụ	“It’s difficult. That said, it’s achievable.”	“It’s difficult. Nevertheless, we will proceed.”

Bảng so sánh chi tiết giữa that said, however, although và các liên từ tương phản khác trong IELTS

Lỗi Thường Gặp & Cách Sửa

Lỗi 1: Quên dấu phẩy sau “that said”

❌ SAI:
“The policy has advantages. That said it also has drawbacks.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“The policy has advantages. That said, it also has drawbacks.”

Giải thích:
“That said” là một transitional phrase (cụm từ chuyển tiếp) đứng đầu câu, nên bắt buộc phải có dấu phẩy ngay sau nó. Đây là quy tắc punctuation cơ bản trong tiếng Anh học thuật mà nhiều thí sinh Việt Nam hay quên.

Lưu ý:
Tương tự, các cụm như “however,” “nevertheless,” “moreover,” “furthermore” đều cần dấu phẩy theo sau khi đứng đầu câu.

Lỗi 2: Dùng “that said” để nối hai mệnh đề trong cùng một câu

❌ SAI:
“Online learning is convenient that said it requires self-discipline.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Online learning is convenient. That said, it requires self-discipline.”
HOẶC
“Online learning is convenient; that said, it requires self-discipline.”

Giải thích:
“That said” không phải là coordinating conjunction (and, but, or) hay subordinating conjunction (although, because). Nó là transitional phrase dùng để nối hai câu độc lập, không thể nối hai clauses trong một câu mà không có dấu chấm hoặc dấu chấm phẩy. Lỗi này tạo ra run-on sentence – một lỗi nghiêm trọng trong IELTS Writing.

Lưu ý:
Nếu muốn nối trong cùng một câu, dùng “although,” “while,” hoặc “but” thay vì “that said.”

Lỗi 3: Logic không phù hợp giữa hai statements

❌ SAI:
“I love reading books. That said, I also enjoy watching movies.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“I love reading books. That said, I rarely have time for them due to my busy schedule.”

Giải thích:
“That said” được dùng để introduce một ý CONTRASTING hoặc LIMITING, không phải để ADD thêm thông tin tương tự. Trong câu sai, “reading books” và “watching movies” không có mối quan hệ đối lập hay hạn chế, mà là hai hoạt động song song. Đây là lỗi về logic coherence, không phải grammar mechanics.

Đúng hơn nên dùng: “I love reading books. Additionally/Also/Similarly, I enjoy watching movies.”

Lưu ý:
Statement 2 sau “that said” thường:

Chỉ ra hạn chế của Statement 1
Đưa ra quan điểm đối lập
Qualify (làm rõ điều kiện) cho Statement 1
Thừa nhận vấn đề/thách thức

Lỗi 4: Lạm dụng “that said” trong một bài viết

❌ SAI:
“Technology improves life. That said, it has drawbacks. Education has changed. That said, traditional methods remain valuable. Work has transformed. That said, challenges persist.”
(Sử dụng “that said” 3 lần trong một đoạn ngắn)

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Technology improves life. That said, it has drawbacks. Education has also changed significantly. However, traditional methods remain valuable. Similarly, while work has transformed, new challenges have emerged.”

Giải thích:
Repetition là một trong những lý do khiến thí sinh bị trừ điểm Lexical Resource. Trong IELTS Writing Task 2 (250 words), nên sử dụng “that said” tối đa 1-2 lần. Thay vào đó, sử dụng các synonyms như “however,” “nevertheless,” “having said that,” “even so.”

Lưu ý:
Examiner đánh giá cao việc paraphrase và sử dụng variety of cohesive devices. Hãy prepare một list các transitional phrases tương đương để alternate.

Lỗi 5: Đặt “that said” không đúng vị trí trong câu

❌ SAI:
“The technology, that said, has limitations.”
“Remote work that said requires discipline.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“The technology has many benefits. That said, it has limitations.”

Giải thích:
“That said” không thể được dùng như một parenthetical expression (cụm từ chèn) ở giữa câu như “however” có thể được. Nó phải đứng ở đầu câu thứ hai, sau dấu chấm hoặc dấu chấm phẩy.

So sánh với “however”:

✅ “The technology, however, has limitations.” (Correct – however có thể chèn giữa)
❌ “The technology, that said, has limitations.” (Wrong)

Lưu ý:
Các transitional phrases như “that said,” “in fact,” “for example” có vị trí cố định ở đầu câu hoặc đầu clause. Chỉ một số từ như “however,” “therefore,” “moreover” mới có thể flexible về vị trí.

Top 5 Mistakes Vietnamese Learners Make

Confusing “that said” with “that is to say”
- “That said” = concession (tuy nhiên)
- “That is to say” = clarification (nói cách khác)
- Lỗi phổ biến do cả hai đều bắt đầu bằng “that”
Using comma splice: “Technology is useful, that said, it has problems.” → Phải dùng dấu chấm hoặc chấm phẩy
Direct translation from Vietnamese: “Nói như vậy” ≠ “that said” (không dịch trực tiếp được)
Wrong tone in Speaking Part 1: Dùng “that said” cho câu trả lời ngắn → Quá formal và không tự nhiên
Redundancy: “Although… That said…” trong cùng một sentence structure → Thừa concession

Bài Tập Thực Hành

Bài Tập 1: Điền Từ

Hoàn thành câu với “that said,” “however,” “although,” hoặc “nevertheless” cho phù hợp:

Electric cars produce zero emissions. __, their batteries require rare earth minerals that are harmful to mine.
Many people enjoy working from home. __, some struggle with work-life balance.
__ social media connects people globally, it can also spread misinformation.
The research shows promising results. __, more studies are needed before drawing conclusions.
Renewable energy is environmentally friendly. __, the initial investment costs are high.
__ the program is expensive, it delivers excellent results.
Learning a foreign language is challenging. __, the cognitive benefits make it worthwhile.
The policy aims to reduce inequality. __, critics argue it may have unintended consequences.
__ many experts support this theory, some remain skeptical.
Urban living offers many conveniences. __, the high cost of living is a significant drawback.

Bài Tập 2: Tìm Và Sửa Lỗi

Tìm lỗi sai trong các câu sau và sửa lại:

Online shopping is convenient that said it lacks the personal touch of traditional retail. [❌]
The smartphone has revolutionized communication. That said it has also created addiction problems. [❌]
I believe, that said, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. [❌]
Remote work saves time. That said, however, it can be isolating. [❌]
Technology improves education. That said, technology helps students learn better. [❌]
Although the plan is ambitious. That said, it’s achievable with proper resources. [❌]
The movie was entertaining, that said, the plot was predictable. [❌]
Solar energy is renewable. That said solar energy is also becoming more affordable. [❌]
Exercise is important for health. That said, that said, moderation is key. [❌]
The theory is widely accepted. That said critics point out several flaws. [❌]

Bài Tập 3: Viết Câu

Viết câu hoàn chỉnh sử dụng “that said” hoặc synonyms cho các tình huống sau:

Topic: Social media
Point A: Social media helps people stay connected
Point B: It can also cause anxiety and depression
→ Your sentence: ___
Topic: City life
Point A: Cities offer many job opportunities
Point B: The cost of living is very high
→ Your sentence: ___
Topic: Technology in education
Point A: Educational apps make learning more engaging
Point B: Students may become too dependent on technology
→ Your sentence: ___
Topic: Globalization
Point A: Globalization increases economic opportunities
Point B: It can threaten local cultures and traditions
→ Your sentence: ___
Topic: Remote work
Point A: Remote work provides flexibility and saves commuting time
Point B: It blurs the boundaries between work and personal life
→ Your sentence: ___

Bài Tập 4: Viết Đoạn Văn (Writing Task 2)

Viết một body paragraph (khoảng 100-120 words) cho đề bài sau, sử dụng “that said” hoặc synonym ít nhất một lần:

Topic: “Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

Yêu cầu:

Chọn một viewpoint để develop trong paragraph này
Sử dụng “that said” hoặc synonym để introduce counterpoint
Include topic sentence, supporting sentences, và brief conclusion
Aim for Band 7+ quality

Your paragraph:

Bài Tập 5: Speaking Practice

Trả lời các câu hỏi Speaking Part 3 sau, sử dụng “that said” trong câu trả lời của bạn:

“Do you think technology has improved people’s quality of life?”
“Should governments spend more money on public transportation or on roads for private vehicles?”
“Is it better for children to grow up in the city or in the countryside?”

Lưu ý: Ghi âm câu trả lời của bạn và nghe lại để kiểm tra pronunciation và fluency.

Đáp Án Chi Tiết

Đáp Án Bài Tập 1:

That said / However (cả hai đều đúng, “That said” nhấn mạnh concession hơn)
→ “Electric cars produce zero emissions. That said, their batteries require rare earth minerals that are harmful to mine.”
Giải thích: Thừa nhận lợi ích (zero emissions) trước khi chỉ ra vấn đề (mining harm)
That said / However
→ “Many people enjoy working from home. That said, some struggle with work-life balance.”
Giải thích: Contrast giữa positive experience và negative consequence
Although
→ “Although social media connects people globally, it can also spread misinformation.”
Giải thích: Cần subordinating conjunction trong cùng một câu, không dùng “that said”
Nevertheless / However / That said (cả ba đều hợp lý)
→ “The research shows promising results. Nevertheless, more studies are needed before drawing conclusions.”
Giải thích: “Nevertheless” formal hơn, phù hợp với academic context
That said / However
→ “Renewable energy is environmentally friendly. That said, the initial investment costs are high.”
Giải thích: Classic concession structure
Although
→ “Although the program is expensive, it delivers excellent results.”
Giải thích: Single sentence structure cần subordinating conjunction
That said / Nevertheless / However
→ “Learning a foreign language is challenging. That said, the cognitive benefits make it worthwhile.”
Giải thích: Acknowledging difficulty before emphasizing benefits
That said / However / Nevertheless
→ “The policy aims to reduce inequality. That said, critics argue it may have unintended consequences.”
Giải thích: Presenting opposing viewpoint
Although / While
→ “Although many experts support this theory, some remain skeptical.”
Giải thích: Single sentence contrast
That said / However
→ “Urban living offers many conveniences. That said, the high cost of living is a significant drawback.”
Giải thích: Balanced view of city life

Đáp Án Bài Tập 2:

❌ Run-on sentence (thiếu dấu chấm/chấm phẩy)
✅ “Online shopping is convenient. That said, it lacks the personal touch of traditional retail.”
HOẶC “Online shopping is convenient; that said, it lacks the personal touch of traditional retail.”
❌ Thiếu dấu phẩy sau “that said”
✅ “The smartphone has revolutionized communication. That said, it has also created addiction problems.”
❌ “That said” không thể dùng như parenthetical phrase giữa câu
✅ “I believe the approach has merit. That said, the benefits must outweigh the drawbacks.”
❌ Redundant – dùng cả “that said” và “however” (chỉ cần một)
✅ “Remote work saves time. That said, it can be isolating.”
HOẶC “Remote work saves time. However, it can be isolating.”
❌ Logic error – Statement 2 không contrast với Statement 1 (cả hai đều positive)
✅ “Technology improves education by providing diverse learning resources. That said, it cannot replace skilled teachers and personal interaction.”
❌ Fragment – “Although the plan is ambitious” là incomplete sentence
✅ “The plan is ambitious and faces many challenges. That said, it’s achievable with proper resources.”
HOẶC “Although the plan is ambitious, it’s achievable with proper resources.”
❌ “That said” không thể dùng với comma splice trong một câu
✅ “The movie was entertaining. That said, the plot was predictable.”
❌ Redundancy và logic error – Statement 2 continues positive point thay vì contrast
✅ “Solar energy is renewable and becoming more affordable. That said, its effectiveness depends heavily on weather conditions and geographical location.”
❌ Duplicate “that said”
✅ “Exercise is important for health. That said, moderation is key.”
❌ Thiếu dấu phẩy sau “that said”
✅ “The theory is widely accepted. That said, critics point out several flaws.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 3:

Sample answers (có nhiều cách viết đúng, đây là suggestions):

“Social media helps people stay connected with friends and family across long distances. That said, excessive use can lead to anxiety, depression, and a distorted perception of reality.”
“Cities offer numerous job opportunities and access to better services and amenities. However, the high cost of living, including expensive housing and daily expenses, makes urban life financially challenging for many people.”
“Educational apps make learning more interactive and engaging for students, catering to different learning styles. Having said that, students may become overly dependent on technology and lose essential skills like handwriting and mental calculation.”
“Globalization has increased economic opportunities through international trade and investment. Nevertheless, it poses a threat to local cultures and traditions, which may be overshadowed by dominant global cultures.”
“Remote work provides significant flexibility and eliminates time-consuming commutes, improving work-life balance. That said, it often blurs the boundaries between professional and personal life, making it difficult for workers to truly disconnect.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 4:

Sample Body Paragraph (Band 8 level):

“Proponents of practical education argue that universities should prioritize employability by equipping graduates with job-ready skills. In today’s competitive labor market, employers expect candidates to possess not only theoretical knowledge but also practical competencies such as problem-solving, teamwork, and technical expertise. Students who invest considerable time and money in higher education naturally expect tangible returns in the form of career prospects and financial stability. That said, this utilitarian approach overlooks the broader mission of universities as institutions of intellectual inquiry and critical thinking. Education focused solely on immediate employability may produce skilled workers but fails to cultivate informed citizens capable of addressing complex societal challenges. Moreover, many of the most valuable skills—creativity, adaptability, ethical reasoning—develop through exposure to diverse fields of knowledge rather than narrow vocational training. Therefore, while practical preparation has its place, universities must balance career readiness with the cultivation of broader intellectual and civic capabilities.”

Phân tích:

Topic sentence rõ ràng (Proponents of practical education…)
Supporting points with examples
Natural use of “That said” để introduce counterargument
Advanced vocabulary (utilitarian, intellectual inquiry, cultivate)
Complex sentences
Balanced conclusion
Word count: ~150 words (có thể adjust cho 100-120 words)

Đáp Án Bài Tập 5:

Sample Speaking Answers:

Question 1: “Do you think technology has improved people’s quality of life?”

Band 7-8 Answer:
“Absolutely, I think technology has dramatically improved our quality of life in many ways. For instance, we can now access information instantly, communicate with people worldwide, and accomplish tasks much more efficiently than before. Medical technology has also extended life expectancy and improved healthcare outcomes significantly. That said, I think we shouldn’t ignore the negative aspects. Many people have become addicted to their devices, which affects their mental health and social relationships. Also, the constant connectivity can be stressful, as people feel pressured to be available 24/7. So while technology has brought tremendous benefits, we need to use it mindfully to avoid its potential downsides.”

Question 2: “Should governments spend more money on public transportation or on roads for private vehicles?”

Band 8 Answer:
“I believe governments should prioritize investment in public transportation for several reasons. Efficient public transit systems reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and make cities more livable for everyone, especially those who cannot afford private vehicles. In cities like Tokyo or Singapore, excellent public transport has proven to be economically and environmentally beneficial. Having said that, we can’t completely ignore the need for road infrastructure. In rural areas where public transport isn’t feasible, and for industries that depend on road freight, maintaining quality roads remains important. So I think the ideal approach is to invest heavily in public transport in urban areas while still maintaining adequate road networks where necessary.”

Question 3: “Is it better for children to grow up in the city or in the countryside?”

Band 7+ Answer:
“I think both environments have their advantages, but personally, I believe cities offer more opportunities for children’s development. Urban areas provide better educational facilities, access to cultural activities like museums and theaters, and exposure to diversity, which prepares children for our globalized world. Children in cities also have more extracurricular options for developing their talents. That said, countryside living has important benefits that shouldn’t be dismissed. Children who grow up in rural areas often have more freedom to play outdoors, closer connections to nature, and a stronger sense of community. They’re also less exposed to pollution and the stress of city life. So ideally, children would benefit from experiencing both environments—perhaps living in the city but spending time in the countryside during holidays.”

Kết Bài

Nắm vững cách sử dụng “that said” và các cấu trúc concession tương tự là một bước quan trọng để nâng cao band điểm IELTS của bạn. Cấu trúc này không chỉ giúp bạn thể hiện khả năng tư duy phản biện và nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách toàn diện, mà còn tạo ra sự mạch lạc, tự nhiên trong lập luận của bạn.

Hãy nhớ rằng, việc sử dụng “that said” hiệu quả đòi hỏi:

Trong Speaking:

Sử dụng tự nhiên, không gượng ép
Tránh overuse, đặc biệt ở Part 1
Kết hợp với intonation phù hợp
Paraphrase với các synonyms để tránh repetition

Trong Writing:

Đảm bảo logic concession rõ ràng
Sử dụng punctuation chính xác
Vary transitional phrases throughout essay
Integrate smoothly với các complex structures

Key Takeaways:

“That said” = acknowledge Point A trước khi present contrasting/limiting Point B
Luôn có dấu phẩy sau “that said”
Đứng giữa hai câu độc lập, không trong cùng một câu
Tránh lạm dụng – 1-2 lần trong một bài Writing Task 2 là đủ
Practice với real IELTS topics để develop natural usage

Đề Luyện Tập

Speaking Topics:

Describe a technological device that has changed your life
- Yêu cầu: Nói về benefits, sau đó dùng “that said” để thừa nhận drawbacks hoặc limitations
Talk about the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city
- Yêu cầu: Present one side thoroughly, sau đó dùng concession structure để acknowledge the other side
Discuss how education has changed in your country
- Yêu cầu: Describe positive changes, dùng “that said” để mention challenges or things lost

Writing Topics:

Environmental Essay:
“Some people believe that individual actions cannot make a difference in addressing environmental problems, while others think that personal responsibility is crucial. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
- Yêu cầu: Sử dụng “that said” hoặc synonyms ít nhất 2 lần để present balanced arguments
Technology Essay:
“The increasing use of technology in the workplace has both positive and negative effects. Discuss both effects and give your own opinion.”
- Yêu cầu: Trong mỗi body paragraph, present one effect clearly, sau đó dùng concession để acknowledge complexity
Education Essay:
“Some people think that universities should provide graduates with knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake. Discuss both views.”
- Yêu cầu: Develop both viewpoints, sử dụng concession structures để show critical thinking

Practice Guidelines:

Speaking: Record yourself và listen back để check naturalness
Writing: Peer review hoặc teacher feedback về logic flow và grammar accuracy
Both skills: Focus on variety – không chỉ “that said” mà còn “however,” “nevertheless,” “having said that”

Self-Study Plan:

Week 1-2: Master cơ bản

Học thuộc công thức và rules
Practice với 20 simple sentences
Identify “that said” trong IELTS Reading samples

Week 3-4: Develop fluency

Write 5 body paragraphs với concession structures
Practice Speaking Part 3 questions
Compare your usage với Band 8-9 samples

Week 5-6: Refine và vary

Introduce synonyms (nevertheless, having said that)
Combine với complex structures
Take full practice tests focusing on natural integration

Chúc bạn học tốt và đạt band điểm mong muốn trong kỳ thi IELTS!

Cách Sử Dụng That Said Concession Trong IELTS – Bí Quyết Ghi Điểm Writing & Speaking