however it is

USAGE SUMMARY

"however it is" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce a contrasting idea or opinion. For example: "The weather outside is sunny; however, it is still cold."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, it is true.

The Guardian - Books

However it is doubtful.

The New Yorker

"However, it is perfectly legal".

The New York Times

Sometimes, however, it is true.

The Economist

However, it is misguided.

The New York Times

However, it is tauter.

The Guardian - Music

However, it is not free.

Columbia University

However it is not new.

The New York Times - Magazine

Occasionally, however, it is not.

The New York Times

Parochial, however, it is not.

The Guardian - Travel

Mainly, however, it is dull.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however it is" to introduce a contrasting statement after providing context. For example, "The task seemed daunting; however, it is achievable with careful planning."

Common error

Avoid placing a comma directly before "however" without a preceding clause. Instead of "It is difficult, however it is important", use "It is difficult; however, it is important" or "It is difficult, but it is important".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however it is" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses, introducing a contrast or qualification to the preceding statement. Ludwig shows many examples where the phrase introduces a contrasting fact or opinion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however it is" serves as a versatile phrase for introducing contrast or qualification in various contexts. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequency across news, academic, and general writing. Remember to use correct punctuation and be mindful of formality when using this phrase. It is crucial for presenting a balanced view by acknowledging a previous point while introducing a contradictory or qualifying element. The range of authoritative sources using this phrase highlights its reliability and widespread acceptance in formal and informal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nevertheless it is

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

yet it is

Substitutes "however" with "yet", offering a slightly more concise alternative.

nonetheless it is

A formal alternative to "however", indicating that something is true despite what has been said.

even so it is

Replaces "however" with "even so", providing a slightly stronger sense of contrast.

all the same it is

Offers a more emphatic alternative to "however", stressing that something remains true despite what precedes it.

that being said it is

Introduces a contrast or qualification to the preceding statement, similar to "however".

be that as it may it is

A more formal and emphatic way of saying "however", indicating a concession.

despite that it is

Highlights the contrast by explicitly mentioning that something holds true despite a preceding fact.

in spite of that it is

Similar to "despite that", emphasizing the contrast or unexpectedness.

with that said it is

Functions similarly to "however", introducing a qualification or contrasting point.

FAQs

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

"However it is" is typically used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement. For example: "The initial cost is high; "however it is" a worthwhile investment in the long run."

What are some alternatives to "however it is"?

You can use alternatives like "nevertheless it is", "yet it is", or "even so it is" depending on the context.

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

While it's more common to use "however" to connect two independent clauses, starting a sentence with "however" followed by a clause is acceptable. For example: "The data suggests otherwise. "However it is" essential to consider all factors."

What's the difference between "however it is" and "but it is"?

"However it is" is generally more formal than "but it is". "But it is" is a simpler conjunction that directly contrasts two ideas, while "however it is" often introduces a more nuanced contrast. "The task is challenging; but it is manageable". Is less formal than "The task is challenging; "however it is" manageable".