however that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to signal a contrast between an idea that has just been expressed and the one that follows. For example: "The movie started off with a great premise, however that changed as the story went on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, that might change.

The New York Times

However, that was then.

The New York Times

"However, that will inevitably change.

Independent

However, that would be ridiculous.

Independent

However, that is not enough".

The Guardian

However, that isn't their forte.

The New York Times

However, that was not difficult.

The Economist

However, that was cut substantially.

The New York Times

However, that wasn't to be.

Independent

Today, however, that has shifted.

The New York Times

However, that may be changing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however that" to clearly signal a contrast or shift in perspective. Ensure the clauses connected by "however that" present genuinely opposing ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "however that" when simply adding information. This phrase is for contrast, not continuation. Alternatives like "furthermore" or "moreover" are better suited for additive sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however that" functions as a transitional phrase, signaling a contrast or shift in the direction of the argument or narrative. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in connecting opposing ideas or qualifying previous statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "however that" is a versatile and common transitional phrase used to introduce a contrast or shift in perspective. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and typical usage in various written contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it provides a concise way to signal opposing ideas. To enhance clarity in writing, ensure a clear contrast between the connected clauses and consider alternatives like "nevertheless" or "yet" for nuanced expression. Avoiding misuse in additive sentences is crucial to maintain precision in communication. Ludwig's examples confirm that the contexts of usage may vary but it mainly serves a role as conjunction and it is overall correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nonetheless that

Similar to "however", but with a stronger emphasis on overcoming a previous obstacle or consideration. Highlights the force of something, in spite of circumstances.

yet that

This introduces a contrast or qualification, emphasizing the surprising or unexpected nature of the subsequent statement.

still that

This emphasizes the persistence of a condition or situation despite a previous statement. Highlights the fact that, despite what has been previously mentioned, something still happens.

anyway that

This suggests a disregard for the preceding statement, implying that the following point is valid regardless of what came before. Shifts the meaning to something inevitable, or eventually happening in spite of previous circumstances.

even that

This emphasizes the surprising or unexpected nature of the subsequent statement, adding a degree of astonishment not present in the original.

unfortunately that

This adds an element of regret or disappointment, coloring the subsequent statement with a negative connotation that is not necessarily present in the original.

moreover that

This alternative suggests an addition of information, rather than a contrast, shifting the focus from opposition to continuation.

furthermore that

This suggests an addition of information, rather than a contrast, shifting the focus from opposition to continuation.

so that

This phrase indicates purpose or result, changing the relationship between clauses from contrast to consequence.

therefore that

This indicates a logical conclusion or deduction, altering the relationship between clauses from contrast to causation.

FAQs

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

Use "however that" to introduce a contrasting statement after an initial clause. For example, "The initial plan was successful; "however that" changed when new challenges arose."

What are some alternatives to "however that"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "nevertheless", "yet", or "nonetheless" to introduce a contrasting point.

Is it always necessary to use a comma before "however that"?

Yes, it's generally recommended to place a comma before "however" when it introduces a contrasting clause. For example, "The team tried their best, "however that" wasn't enough."

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

"However that" is typically used to join two independent clauses, while "although" introduces a subordinate clause. You might say, "The task was difficult; "however that", we managed to complete it," versus "Although the task was difficult, we managed to complete it."