however far

USAGE SUMMARY

"however far" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce a contrasting idea in relation to what was previously stated. For example: "John had tried his best to achieve his goal, however far he was from achieving it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

However, far deeper forces are in play.

Independent

She is, however, far from large.

The Guardian - Books

However far we travel, our impacts precede us.

The Guardian - Opinion

However far their parents have reached, they will reach further.

The Guardian - Opinion

The tone he adopts is, however, far from alarmist.

The Guardian - Books

She is, however, far more private about her money.

The New York Times

His own therapeutic context is, however, far too narrow.

The New York Times

It is, however, far from a done deal.

The Guardian - Sport

It is, however, far from being a cold, calculated picture.

The Guardian - Film

It was, however, far grittier and less optimistic.

The New York Times - Books

"Today's punishment, however, far exceeded any reasonable expectation.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Place a comma after "however far" when it introduces a clause that interrupts the main sentence flow.

Common error

Avoid using "however far" in simple sentences where a basic conjunction like "but" or "yet" would suffice. "However far" is most effective when introducing a more complex contrast related to distance or degree, not just a general opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however far" functions as an adverbial modifier, introducing a clause that expresses a condition or concession related to distance or extent. It modifies the main clause by setting a limit or boundary that doesn't change the outcome, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

39%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however far" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize that distance or extent does not alter a certain condition or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse fields like news, science, and general discourse. While it is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it appears more often in writings requiring nuanced expression. Alternatives like "no matter how distant" and "regardless of the distance" offer similar meanings, though "however far" effectively highlights persistence despite spatial or metaphorical separation. Best practices include using it to introduce a contrasting point, while common errors involve misusing it in simple sentences that don't require such nuanced contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no matter how distant

Emphasizes the lack of limitation regardless of the distance involved.

regardless of the distance

Highlights that the distance does not affect the outcome or statement.

irrespective of how remote

Similar to 'regardless', but places more stress on the remoteness.

to whatever extent

Focuses on the degree or scope, rather than physical distance.

despite the length

Specific to physical or metaphorical lengths or distances.

even if it's a long way

More informal, this phrase directly states a long distance.

notwithstanding the distance

A more formal way of saying 'despite the distance'.

no matter the remoteness

Stresses the idea of something being remote or inaccessible.

as far as it may be

Focuses on the potential large distance, without setting a limit.

even at a great distance

Highlights that something occurs even when there is substantial separation.

FAQs

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

You can use "however far" to indicate that a situation remains true regardless of distance, degree, or extent. For example: "However far we travel, our impacts precede us."

What phrases are similar to "however far"?

Alternatives to "however far" include phrases such as "no matter how distant", "regardless of the distance", or "to whatever extent", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is "however far" formal or informal?

"However far" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to appear more frequently in written or spoken discourse that requires a nuanced expression of contrast and extent. Using simpler alternatives like "even if it's a long way" can make your text more casual.

What's the difference between "however far" and "so far"?

"However far" introduces a condition that does not affect the outcome, emphasizing persistence despite distance. "So far", on the other hand, refers to progress or extent achieved up to a certain point. For example: "So far, the project is on schedule."