however regrettably

USAGE SUMMARY

"however regrettably" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a clause that follows with a contrast to the previous clause. For example: We had hoped to go on vacation this year, however regrettably that proved to be impossible.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"However, regrettably, a number of security guards were wounded.

BBC

However, regrettably, retention times varied by minutes when the column was used at different times.

Analytical Chemistry

However, regrettably the expression of the isoform with the additional 25 amino acids did not result in a functional AChR when the complementary DNAs were injected into Xenopus oocytes by postdoc Claire Newland (Supplementary material B178), and to date, no role for this quirk of human genetics has been found either in neuromuscular junction function or in myasthenia.

Brain

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The exhibition's general ambience, however, is regrettably aggressive.

The New York Times - Arts

However, we regrettably do not have a PET-CT scanner in our hospital.

Surgical Case Reports

On September 6, however, Bloomberg regrettably informs us that cable companies couldn't even swallow the notion of Apple controlling the look and feel of the TV-watching experience.

Huffington Post

Regrettably, however, your own response [the editorial] is not measured".

The Guardian - Opinion

Regrettably, however, they have often been systematically excluded and overlooked.

The Guardian

Regrettably, however, Ekirch doesn't know when to hold back.

The New Yorker

Regrettably, however, managing migration has become synonymous with successful exclusion of refugees and other forced migrants.

Harvard University

Regrettably, however, the leadership has said that some provisions are untouchable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however regrettably" to introduce a contrasting point that involves an element of disappointment or regret, ensuring the tone remains formal and considered.

Common error

Avoid using "however regrettably" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "but unfortunately" or "sadly though" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however regrettably" functions as an adverbial connector. It introduces a clause that contrasts with the preceding one while simultaneously expressing regret about the situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however regrettably" is a grammatically correct adverbial connector used to introduce a contrasting clause while expressing regret. Though relatively rare, as shown by Ludwig, it maintains a formal tone and finds use in news and scientific contexts. Alternative phrases like "however unfortunately" or "sadly enough" can be used in more informal settings. When using "however regrettably", ensure it aligns with the desired tone and level of formality. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the phrase, noting its role in introducing a clause that follows with a contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however unfortunately

Replaces 'regrettably' with 'unfortunately', maintaining the contrast and negative connotation.

however sadly

Substitutes 'regrettably' with 'sadly', emphasizing the emotional aspect of the statement.

however disappointingly

Replaces 'regrettably' with 'disappointingly', highlighting the feeling of unmet expectations.

but regrettably

Replaces 'however' with 'but', creating a more direct contrast.

yet regrettably

Replaces 'however' with 'yet', indicating a contrast despite a previous statement.

regrettably though

Inverts the order, placing 'regrettably' first for emphasis.

unfortunately though

Combines 'unfortunately' with 'though' to convey regret and contrast.

sadly enough

Expresses sadness or disappointment and introduces a contradictory element.

it is regrettable however

Adds formality by introducing 'it is regrettable', followed by 'however'.

to my regret however

Highlights personal regret alongside a contrasting statement.

FAQs

What does "however regrettably" mean?

It means that despite something being true or expected, something unfortunate or disappointing is also the case.

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

You can use it to connect two contrasting clauses where the second clause expresses regret or disappointment. For example: "We had planned to launch the product this quarter, however regrettably, we encountered unforeseen delays".

What can I say instead of "however regrettably"?

You can use alternatives like "however unfortunately", "sadly enough", or "but regrettably" depending on the context.

Is "however regrettably" more formal than "but unfortunately"?

Yes, "however regrettably" is generally considered more formal. "But unfortunately" is more suitable for informal contexts.