however it happens

USAGE SUMMARY

"however it happens" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that something will happen, no matter what. For example: "We don't know how it will happen yet, however it happens, we need to be ready."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"However it happens, he's got to be able to go out there and pitch," Mussina said.

The New York Times

"At this point, we'll take whatever we can get, however it happens".

The New York Times

And birth, however it happens, is more epic than Jamie Oliver's Epic Roast Chicken Salad.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However it happens, the reports should be put online for all Americans to access free.

The New York Times

But however it happens, this national conversation will not include – how can it now?

The Guardian - Opinion

"However it happens, new leadership will emerge," the historians of the House wrote.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

However it happened, the Knicks went in with eyes wide open.

The New York Times - Sports

However it happened, Belichick was Jets coach for a day -- shorter than his previous tenure.

The New York Times - Sports

But however it happened, low inventories in the Northeast have become a factor in the price of energy.

The New York Times

However it happened, "O2Be" is here, on Sunday nights at 7 30, with six episodes ordered (the third arrives tonight).

The New York Times - Arts

Still, however it happened, Dunham and co delivered a bold but logical development of the original show.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however it happens" to reassure the reader that a goal will be achieved despite potential uncertainties in the process. It adds a tone of acceptance and determination.

Common error

Avoid using "however it happens" when a simpler phrase like "nevertheless" or "regardless" would suffice. "However it happens" implies a process, not just a condition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however it happens" functions as an adverbial conjunction, introducing a clause that qualifies the main statement by expressing that the manner of something occurring is not important, only that it does occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however it happens" functions as an adverbial conjunction that indicates acceptance or inevitability of an outcome, regardless of the process. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It's a common phrase suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, and carries a neutral tone. While grammatically correct and frequently used, it's important to ensure it adds meaningful nuance and isn't simply a redundant alternative to simpler phrases like "nevertheless". Consider alternatives such as "come what may" or "one way or another" to tailor the expression to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come what may

Emphasizes acceptance of the future regardless of potential difficulties.

no matter how it occurs

Focuses on the irrelevance of the method of occurrence.

regardless of how it unfolds

Highlights the progression of events leading to the outcome.

by any means necessary

Suggests a determined effort to achieve something, irrespective of the methods used.

in any event

Indicates that something will happen regardless of other circumstances.

whatever the case may be

Acknowledges uncertainty but accepts any possible scenario.

in spite of everything

Highlights persistence despite obstacles.

at all costs

Emphasizes the importance of achieving something, regardless of the sacrifices.

by hook or by crook

Implies using any available method, even if dishonest or unconventional.

one way or another

Indicates that something will happen, though the exact method is not specified.

FAQs

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

Use "however it happens" to indicate that an outcome is certain, even if the process or means of achieving it are uncertain or varied. For example, "We need to finish the project, "however it happens"".

What are some alternatives to "however it happens"?

Alternatives include phrases like "come what may", "regardless of how it unfolds", or "one way or another", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "however it happens" formal or informal?

"However it happens" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives might be preferred in strictly professional settings.

What's the difference between "however it happens" and "however it happened"?

"However it happens" refers to a future or ongoing event, while "however it happened" refers to something that has already occurred. The former implies anticipation, while the latter reflects on a past event.