Definition:
- As an adverb – Used to introduce a contrast or contradiction.
- Example: She wanted to attend the party; however, she had an important meeting.
- As a conjunction – Used to indicate a contrast between two clauses.
- Example: You can try as hard as you want; however, success is not guaranteed.
- As an adverb for degree – Used to express any extent or degree.
- Example: However difficult the task, she remained determined.
However Synonym
Strongest Matches (Direct Equivalents)
- Nevertheless
- Nonetheless
- Yet
- Still
- Though
- But (in some contexts)
Strong Matches (Contextually Close)
- All the same
- Be that as it may
- But
- Despite
- For all that
- In spite of that
- Just the same
- Regardless
- Anyway
- In any event
- On the other hand
- Conversely
- Notwithstanding
- Albeit
- Although
- Even so
- In contrast
- Despite that
Weak Matches (Loosely Related)
- After all
- Still and all
- Anyhow
- Howbeit
- On the other hand
- Contrarily
- Contrariwise
- When all is said and done
- At all events
- Per contra
- Though
- Withal
- Without regard to
- Whereas
- While
- At any rate
- Regardless
- Even though
- Otherwise
- Anyhow
Example Sentences Using “However”
- Contrast: I love Italian food; however, I’m allergic to tomatoes.
- Contradiction: The weather was perfect. However, the trip was canceled.
- Degree: However hard he tried, he couldn’t lift the box.
- Alternative Statement: We could take the highway. However, it might be crowded.
- Concessive Usage: She is usually shy. However, she gave an excellent speech.
Contextual Usage of “However”
- Formal Writing: Commonly used in academic papers, professional documents, and business communication to indicate contrast (e.g., The results were promising; however, further research is needed.).
- Conversational English: Less frequent in spoken language but still used for emphasis or contrast (e.g., I wanted to go out; however, I had to work.).
- Technical & Legal Writing: Frequently appears in legal and technical documents to clarify contradictions (e.g., The contract states these terms. However, exceptions apply in certain cases.).
- Creative Writing: Used to create dramatic contrasts in storytelling (e.g., The night was silent. However, a distant howl sent chills down her spine.).
Related Words & Concepts
- Despite – Introduces contrast like “however” but is a preposition (Despite his efforts, he failed.).
- Nonetheless vs. Nevertheless – Both mean “however,” but “nevertheless” is slightly more formal.
- Whereas – Used for direct comparison, often in legal and formal writing (She loves cats, whereas he prefers dogs.).
- Yet vs. However – “Yet” often suggests a surprising contrast (He was tired, yet he continued working.), while “however” is more neutral.
- Although vs. However – “Although” introduces a dependent clause (Although it rained, we went out.), whereas “however” often stands alone.
Common Questions About “However”
- Can “however” start a sentence?
- Yes, but it is more formal. Example: However, this approach is not always effective.
- Should a comma be placed after “however”?
- When used at the beginning of a sentence, yes (However, we must consider other options.). When in the middle, it is enclosed by commas (She wanted to leave, however, she stayed.).
- Is “however” the same as “but”?
- Not always. “But” is more informal and often used in speech, while “however” is more formal and used in writing.
- Can “however” be used interchangeably with “nevertheless”?
- In most cases, yes, but “nevertheless” is slightly more emphatic (He was tired; nevertheless, he continued working.).
Disclaimer
This page provides general linguistic and contextual information about the word “however.” While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, language usage may vary based on context, dialect, and evolving grammar conventions. Users are encouraged to consult style guides or linguistic experts for specific writing or professional needs.
