however

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "however" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a contrasting idea or to introduce a more specific statement within a sentence. For example: "I enjoyed the meal; however, I found the service to be rather slow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, the second with a 0.5% formulation was supported by the results, published in February, of a smaller trial run by the HIV Prevention Trials Network.

The Economist

However, a South Korean defence official said separately that North Korea could develop a fully operational submarine with ballistic missiles within two or three years.

The Guardian

The rules do allow, however, for former employees collecting retirement benefits to serve as independent directors.

The New York Times

However, refunds may be paid at GNMA's discretion.

The Guardian

However, in the wake of the mass slaughter in the US, and the arrest of three IRA suspects in Colombia, the atmosphere in Belfast is difficult to gauge.

The Guardian

However, it was one factor that he and Jun use when planning country-launch strategies.

The Guardian - Tech

However, the proposal may still put the UK at odds with the EU over restrictions on free movement of workers.

The Guardian

All is not lost, however.

The New York Times

The big banks have the further advantage of their brands, however tattered the brands may be.

The Economist

However, Franks, comparing the anti-abortion movement to the campaign to abolish slavery, said the issue cut to the heart of the founding principles of the GOP.

The Guardian

However, it did leave me thinking what the party would look like if the membership had left the leadership alone in Whitehall.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "however" to connect two independent clauses, ensure you use a semicolon before "however" and a comma after it: "The team played well; however, they still lost the game."

Common error

Avoid using only a comma before "however" when connecting two independent clauses. This creates a comma splice error. Use a semicolon or make two separate sentences instead.

How to use

Learn how to use "however" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "however" is as a conjunctive adverb or conjunction. It serves to connect two independent clauses, indicating a contrast or a shift in thought. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's perfectly acceptable in written English, introducing contrasting ideas or specific statements within sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"However" is a versatile conjunction used to introduce contrast or qualification, as validated by Ludwig AI. It functions primarily as a conjunctive adverb or conjunction, effectively linking independent clauses. With a neutral to formal register, it's commonly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. Its use is grammatically sound, yet proper punctuation is essential to avoid common errors such as comma splices. Consider alternatives like "nevertheless" or "nonetheless" for nuanced variations. Overall, "however" remains a valuable asset in written English, offering clarity and precision in expressing contrasting ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nevertheless

Focuses more strongly on negating the previous statement.

Nonetheless

Emphasizes that something happens despite a previous statement.

Even so

Indicates that something is still true despite what has been said.

That being said

A more conversational transition to a contrasting point.

Still

A simpler way to introduce a contrast.

Yet

A concise conjunction implying contrast.

In spite of that

Highlights that something occurs despite an obstacle.

Despite this

Similar to "in spite of that", but more direct.

Conversely

Introduces an idea that is the opposite of the previous one.

On the other hand

Presents another aspect of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "however" in a sentence?

"However" can connect two independent clauses with a semicolon, introduce a contrasting idea at the beginning of a sentence, or interrupt a single clause for emphasis. For example: "The data suggests otherwise; "however", more research is needed."

What are some alternatives to using "however"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "however" include "nevertheless", "nonetheless", "still", or "yet". Each carries a slightly different nuance but serves to introduce a contrast or qualification.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "however"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "however", especially when introducing a contrast to the preceding paragraph or idea. Some style guides prefer placing it within the sentence, but starting with "however" is widely accepted.

What is the difference between "however" and "although"?

"However" is typically used to connect two independent clauses or to introduce a contrasting statement. "Although", on the other hand, introduces a subordinate clause that provides context or concession to the main clause. For example: "Although it rained, the game continued," versus "It rained; "however", the game continued."