What does be that as it may mean

Since the saying begins with a form of the verb "to be" that differs from its more common uses as a linking or auxiliary verb, the exact meaning can sometimes appear unclear to first-time learners of idiomatic English sayings. When mentioned in instructive grammar texts, "be that as it may" is often designated as an informal spoken instance of the "to be" verb.

The idiom is frequently spoken as a means of determining agreed-upon truth relative to a situation, and as such it can be meant to counter another statement without completely discrediting the person with the opposing point of view. The saying can generally imply that the other person's statement may not be relevant at the time, although that fact does not take away from his or her general level of credibility.

Angela Farrer. Please enter the following code:. Login: Forgot password? To top. Sign up for free and get access to exclusive content:. Free word lists and quizzes from Cambridge. Tools to create your own word lists and quizzes. Word lists shared by our community of dictionary fans. Sign up now or Log in. Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English. Click on the arrows to change the translation direction. Follow us.

Choose a dictionary. Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English. Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English. Grammar Thesaurus. Word Lists. Choose your language. My word lists.