however when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however when" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a contrasting situation or idea. For example, "I usually eat healthy meals, however when I'm out with friends, I tend to indulge in unhealthy snacks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

However, when M.F.

The New York Times

However when lying, this baseline behaviour changes.

Independent

However, when he resisted, they killed him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, when 10 other players scream "Time!

The Guardian - Sport

The calculations change, however, when mortgage rates go even higher.

The New York Times

However, when he arrived, there was no job.

The New York Times

Detachment is eroded, however, when he encounters delectable cousin Sylvia.

The Guardian - Books

Bertineau seems happiest, however, when cooking the whole animal.

The New Yorker

However, when she talks to him she is very sweet.

The New Yorker

However, when these children become teenagers, everything changes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

What happens, however, when the lights go out?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "however when", ensure that the clause introduced by "when" provides a specific condition or circumstance that contrasts with the initial statement. For example, "He is usually calm, however when provoked, he can become angry."

Common error

Avoid using "however when" in simple sentences where a direct contrast can be expressed more concisely with "but" or "yet". For example, instead of "He tried, however when he failed, he gave up", use "He tried, but he failed and gave up."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however when" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas while introducing a specific condition. Ludwig examples show how this phrase introduces a contrast that is dependent on the condition specified by the "when" clause.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "however when" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunctive phrase that introduces a contrasting situation under a specific condition. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse sources, including News & Media and Science. While versatile, it is best used to present clear and logical transitions rather than in simple sentences where direct contrasts are more suitable. Alternative phrases like "but when" or "yet when" can provide nuanced variations, but "however when" offers a direct and effective way to highlight exceptions or conditional contrasts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but as soon as

This alternative emphasizes the temporal aspect, focusing on the moment the contrasting situation begins.

yet the moment

This alternative highlights a contrast triggered at a specific point in time.

nonetheless as soon as

This option maintains a strong sense of contrast while specifying a temporal trigger.

regardless once

This choice emphasizes a lack of concern about circumstances after a certain condition.

even so immediately after

This phrase underscores an unexpected contrast directly following an event.

nevertheless following

This option presents a contrast linked sequentially to a preceding action or event.

still upon

This alternative suggests an immediate reaction or change when a certain situation arises.

in spite of that as

This option brings out the contrast against existing conditions or qualities at that point.

despite whenever

This phrase expresses a consistent defiance of expectations, with contrast emerging in all relevant instances.

anyway if

This option presents a casual shift or reevaluation based on a conditional.

FAQs

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

Use "however when" to introduce a contrasting situation dependent on a specific condition. For example, "The car is reliable, however when the temperature drops below freezing, it struggles to start."

What are some alternatives to "however when"?

You could use phrases like "but when", "yet when", or "nevertheless when" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

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

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence with "however when" can sometimes sound awkward. It's generally better to place "however" after an initial statement and then introduce the "when" clause.

What's the difference between "however when" and "although when"?

"However when" is used to present a contrast under a specific condition, whereas "although when" is less common and may sound unnatural. "Although" typically introduces a general concession, not a specific conditional contrast.