In English, the word “even” adds emphasis and contrast, making statements stronger. Here are 20 expressions using “even” to help ESL students understand and use it effectively.

1. Even if

Meaning: Regardless of whether
Example: Even if it rains, we’ll go hiking.

2. Even so

Meaning: Despite that
Example: It was cold; even so, he swam.

3. Even now

Meaning: At this moment
Example: Even now, she remembers his words.

4. Even then

Meaning: At that time
Example: He was late, and even then he stopped for coffee.

5. Even better

Meaning: Surpassing expectations
Example: She passed her exam, and even better, with honors.

6. Even as

Meaning: While simultaneously
Example: Even as he spoke, the rain started.

7. Even though

Meaning: Despite the fact
Example: Even though tired, she finished running.

8. Break even

Meaning: No profit or loss
Example: After one year, the business broke even.

9. Not even

Meaning: Absolutely not
Example: He didn’t even say goodbye.

10. Even worse

Meaning: More negative
Example: He lied and, even worse, cheated.

11. Even out

Meaning: Become level
Example: Sand the wood until it evens out.

12. Even up

Meaning: Make equal
Example: The teams evened up the score.

13. Get even

Meaning: Seek revenge
Example: She vowed to get even with him.

14. Even keel

Meaning: Stable condition
Example: After chaos, things are on an even keel.

15. Even-tempered

Meaning: Consistently calm
Example: His even-tempered nature helps in crises.

16. Not even close

Meaning: Completely incorrect
Example: Your guess wasn’t even close to right.

17. On an even footing

Meaning: Equally balanced
Example: They started the debate on an even footing.

18. Even the score

Meaning: Equalize advantages
Example: He scored to even the score 2-2.

19. To even the odds

Meaning: Balance the chances
Example: They changed players to even the odds.

20. Even-handed

Meaning: Fair and impartial
Example: She dealt with the dispute even-handedly.