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.
