however which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however which" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to introduce a contrasting or contradictory clause to the previous part of the sentence. Here is an example: "I was initially hesitant to try the new restaurant, however, which had received rave reviews, I decided to give it a chance." In this example, the phrase "however, which" is used to introduce the fact that the restaurant had received good reviews, which contrasts with the narrator's initial hesitation.

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

However, Aip1p cannot replace Acp1p/Acp2p.

Yale University

Conveniently, however, 74 of these were withdrawn.

The Economist

However, 1995 is a foreign past.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, World3 is a rather complex model.

The Guardian

However, 4G is expensive if used frequently.

The Guardian - Tech

However, £20m is an odd amount.

The Guardian

However, 100 years ago there was controversy.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, QE3 remains a distinct possibility.

The Guardian - Business

There are, however, 485 women mayors.

The New York Times

However 4 bags missed the connection.

Columbia University

(However, 92 of the 468 stations lack such systems).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "however which", ensure that the sentence structure clearly indicates the contrasting element you're introducing. Overusing it can make your writing sound stilted, so consider simpler alternatives.

Common error

Avoid placing a comma directly before "which" when it introduces an essential clause. The phrase "however, which" is often misused when "however" should stand alone as a conjunctive adverb.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however which", while grammatically permissible, functions as a conjunction introducing a relative clause. It connects a contrasting element with additional, non-essential information. The phrase aims to express contrast while adding descriptive detail.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "however which" is grammatically correct but not commonly used. Ludwig AI indicates it introduces a contrasting or contradictory clause. Given its rarity, simpler alternatives like "nevertheless" or "nonetheless" are often preferred for clarity and flow. When using "however which", ensure correct punctuation and sentence structure to avoid misinterpretation. While technically valid, consider if this particular phrase truly enhances your writing, or if a more straightforward conjunction would be more effective. Its function is to contrast information while adding descriptive detail through a relative clause. It's more suited to formal contexts but might be avoided for clarity reasons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nevertheless

More formal alternative emphasizing the contrast despite a preceding statement.

nonetheless

Similar to "nevertheless" but can also imply a slight degree of unexpectedness.

even so

Indicates that despite a previous statement, the following statement is still true.

that being said

Introduces a contrasting point after acknowledging the previous statement.

with that said

Similar to "that being said", offering a transition to a contrasting idea.

all the same

Suggests that something remains true despite what has been said before.

be that as it may

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of expressing concession.

in spite of that

Highlights that something occurs despite an obstacle or contrasting factor.

despite that

Similar to "in spite of that", showing something happening even with a hindrance.

regardless

Emphasizes that something will happen no matter what the preceding statement is.

FAQs

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

While grammatically correct, "however which" isn't a common phrase. A clearer way to use it is to ensure "however" functions as a conjunctive adverb, and "which" introduces a relative clause providing additional information. For example: "The plan had flaws; however, which aspects needed revision weren't immediately clear."

What alternatives can I use instead of "however which"?

Consider alternatives like "nevertheless", "nonetheless", or "even so" depending on the context. These options often provide a smoother transition and maintain clarity.

Is it always necessary to include "which" after "however"?

No, it's not. Often, "however" functions perfectly well on its own as a conjunctive adverb. Adding "which" is only appropriate when introducing a non-restrictive clause that provides extra information.

What's the difference between using "however" and "however which"?

"However" typically introduces a contrasting statement directly. "However which" is less common and is used to introduce a relative clause that adds extra, non-essential information while still providing a contrast. Ensure the sentence remains clear and concise when using "however which".