I can however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I can however" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a contrasting point or exception to what has been previously stated. Example: "I understand your concerns; I can however assure you that the project is on track."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can, however, use everybody else's Tweets.

The Guardian - Sport

I can, however, give away the setup.

The New Yorker

I can, however, tell you she has a new video.

The Guardian - Music

I can, however, see why directors include such scenes.

The Guardian

I can, however, relate to your friends making this choice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I can, however, socialise independently, speak my mind, study, work and pay taxes.

The Guardian - Opinion

I can, however, give you some slightly less specific advice on sorting out your work placement.

The Guardian - Money

I can, however, assure you it's most certainly the Good Stuff.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I can, however, vouch for the doughnuts dunked in soy milk: excellent.

The New Yorker

I can, however, identify with what Senior says about the early parenting years.

The Washington Post

I can, however, tell people that it is a show with no actor.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I can however" to introduce a contrasting point or an exception to a previously stated limitation. It's effective for softening disagreements or presenting alternative actions.

Common error

Avoid using "I can however" repeatedly within a short span of text. This can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I can however" primarily functions as a transitional phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas. It acknowledges a limitation or constraint but introduces an ability or alternative action. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase is typically used to offer a contrasting perspective or action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Lifestyle

20%

Opinion

15%

Less common in

Arts

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I can however" serves as a versatile transitional element, offering a balanced perspective by introducing a contrasting point or alternative action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While predominantly found in news and media, as well as lifestyle and opinion pieces, it maintains a neutral to professional tone suitable for diverse writing styles. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse, and consider alternatives like "nevertheless" or "alternatively" to enhance the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Alternatively, I am able to

Presents an alternative action or ability.

Despite that, I can still

Emphasizes overcoming a previous statement with continued ability.

I am, nonetheless, capable of

Replaces "however" with "nonetheless", maintaining a formal tone.

I am still able to, though

Indicates continuation of ability with a slight concession.

Yet, I possess the skill to

Uses "yet" to introduce a contrasting ability.

Nevertheless, I am able to

Emphasizes the ability to do something despite an obstacle. More formal.

That being said, I have the means to

Introduces a contrasting point using "that being said".

Nonetheless, it's within my power to

Highlights personal power or capability.

Even so, I retain the capacity to

Highlights maintaining the capability, despite circumstances. More formal.

Conversely, I am equipped to

Uses "conversely" to present an opposite ability.

FAQs

How can I use "I can however" in a sentence?

"I can however" is used to introduce a contrasting point or exception. For example, "I understand your concerns; "I can however" assure you that the project is on track."

What phrases are similar to "I can however"?

Alternatives include "nevertheless", "nonetheless", or "alternatively", depending on the context.

Is "I can however" formal or informal?

"I can however" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's suitable for professional and academic writing, but simpler alternatives might be preferred in very informal contexts.

Where does "I can however" typically appear in a sentence?

It usually appears at the beginning of a clause, often after a semicolon or a coordinating conjunction like "but". For example, "I am unable to assist directly; "I can however" provide guidance."