it can however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can however" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a contrasting point or exception to what has been previously stated. Example: "The project is progressing well; it can however face delays due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can, however, change its name.

The New York Times

It can, however, raise rates.

The New York Times

It can, however, be baked.

The New York Times - Food

It can, however, go disastrously wrong.

Independent

It can, however, be an expensive habit.

The New York Times

It can, however, easily lose the war.

The Guardian - Opinion

It can, however, contain toxic materials.

The Guardian

It can, however, provide a good background for several professions.

Yale University

It can, however, be converted from one form to another.

Cornell University

It can, however, refuse to certify a film.

The Guardian

It can, however, be a hugely profitable affair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can however", ensure that the contrasting point is clearly related to the previous statement. This ensures smooth flow and prevents reader confusion.

Common error

Avoid placing "however" at the very beginning of a sentence when it's meant to connect contrasting ideas. While grammatically correct in some contexts, it can sound less natural. Instead, position it after "it can" for smoother integration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can however" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, connecting two clauses where the second clause presents a contrast, qualification, or exception to the first. Ludwig AI confirms its use to introduce a contrasting point or exception. The examples show its deployment across diverse domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can however" serves as a conjunctive phrase to introduce contrasting information. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in diverse sources such as news, academic papers, and scientific articles. Its neutral register allows for its use in both formal and informal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the contrasting point is clearly related to the previous statement to maintain clarity and coherence. While alternatives like "nevertheless" or "nonetheless" exist, "it can however" offers a balanced approach suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nevertheless

More formal and concise; emphasizes the contrast more strongly.

nonetheless

Similar to 'nevertheless' in formality and emphasis, but slightly less common.

that being said

Common in speech and writing; smoothly transitions to a contrasting point.

even so

More informal; indicates a contrast despite a previous statement.

on the other hand

Presents a direct alternative perspective.

all the same

Informal; suggests that something remains true despite what has been said.

despite this

Similar to 'in spite of that', but slightly more concise.

in spite of that

Highlights the contrast despite the preceding information.

be that as it may

Highly formal and somewhat archaic; introduces a contrasting point.

yet

Simple conjunction indicating contrast; can be less emphatic.

FAQs

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

Use "it can however" to introduce a contrasting point or exception to a previous statement. For example, "The initial plan was successful; "it can however" be improved further".

What's the difference between "it can however" and "it can nevertheless"?

Both phrases introduce a contrast. "It can nevertheless" is more formal and emphasizes the contrast more strongly, while ""it can however"" is slightly less formal and commonly used in a wider range of contexts.

Which is correct: "it can however" or "however it can"?

"It can however" is the standard and grammatically correct order for introducing a contrasting point. "However it can" is not a common or generally accepted construction.

What can I say instead of "it can however"?

You can use alternatives like "even so", "that being said", or "on the other hand depending on the context".