as a rule however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a rule however" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a general principle or guideline while acknowledging an exception or contrasting point. Example: "As a rule, however, most students find the course manageable with proper study habits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

As a rule, however, the extra chromosome is separate, making the number forty-seven.

The New Yorker

As a rule, however, service in the Luftwaffe auxiliary was dreary, though dreary in a different way from school.

The New Yorker

As a rule, however, the elevation of an animal to pet status removes it entirely from the human food chain.

The New York Times - Science

As a rule, however, the recording industry is notorious for dragging its feet when faced with innovation of any sort -- technological or artistic.

The New York Times - Magazine

As a rule, however, even within families and genera the relative positions of the dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins are somewhat variable and are often used in classification.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The answer is tied to a company's growth prospects; as a rule, however, they will not buy a company whose price-to-earnings multiple is more than twice its earnings growth rate.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

As a general rule, however, the observed behavior of a patient in pain can provide a measure of (a) the pain's intensity and (b) the patient's ability to cope with it.

The New Yorker

As a general rule, however, it can be said that bio-based renewable construction materials are usually more environmentally friendly, as long as they are sustainably sourced.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

As a general rule, however, correcting market failures is best left to government.

The Economist

As a general rule, however, the first version is usually preferable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a general rule, however, the more arid the environment, the shorter their life span and the less predictable their occurrence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a rule however" to introduce a statement that is generally true, but may have exceptions. This helps to set up expectations while also acknowledging that the situation might not always be the same.

Common error

Avoid using "as a rule however" too frequently in close proximity, as the repeated use of "however" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a rule however" functions as a transitional phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas. It introduces a general statement or principle ("as a rule") and then indicates that there is an exception or contrasting point to be made ("however"). Ludwig provides many examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a rule however" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a general principle followed by an exception or contrast. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While "as a rule however" isn't the most common phrase, it serves a valuable function in qualifying statements and signaling contrasting points. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid redundancy. Alternatives such as "generally speaking though" or "typically but" can offer stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a general principle yet

Adds slightly stronger wording than "as a rule".

generally speaking though

Replaces "as a rule" with a more conversational opener, while retaining the contrast.

typically but

Uses a different term for "as a rule", offering a shorter and more direct contrast.

in most cases nevertheless

Emphasizes the prevalence of the rule, while still acknowledging exceptions.

for the most part yet

Highlights the overall applicability, but introduces a contrast.

ordinarily even so

Replaces the common phrase with more formal vocabulary.

usually notwithstanding

Offers a similar meaning with a formal tone.

on average nonetheless

Focuses on the average outcome, while acknowledging deviations.

by and large still

Presents a broad generalization followed by a qualifier.

more often than not but

Indicates a frequency followed by a contradiction.

FAQs

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

Use "as a rule however" to introduce a general principle, then follow it with a statement that presents an exception or contrast. For example, "As a rule however, companies prioritize profits, but some also focus on social responsibility".

What phrases are similar to "as a rule however"?

Similar phrases include "generally speaking though", "typically but", and "in most cases nevertheless".

Is it correct to use "as a rule however" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a rule however" is acceptable in formal writing, though it may be more common to see phrases like "as a general principle however" in strictly academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "as a rule" and "as a rule however"?

"As a rule" introduces a general statement. Adding "however" acknowledges that there are exceptions to that general rule. It sets up the expectation that a contrasting point will follow.