however
- 1Used to add something that is different from, or goes against, what was just said.
Like holding two things side by side to show they are not the same.
Her brother loves crowds. Her sister, however, prefers quiet rooms.
Summers here are dry. The winters, however, bring heavy rain.
Similarthough, nevertheless, nonetheless
Note
- 2Used like but to join two ideas that do not match. Many people think this use is wrong.
We can try the new route, however I doubt it's faster.
"I texted him twice, however he never answered," she told her sister.
UsageUse but instead, or put a semicolon before however and a comma after it.
- 3No matter how much or how little something is.
Like saying 'no matter how much.'
However hard she pushed, the door would not open.
You can stay however long you need to.
UsagePut it before a describing word: however hard you try.
Note
Less common meanings
- 4In any way. It does not matter how.
Like saying 'no matter how you do it.'
However you slice it, the cost is just too high.
However the meeting ends, we will keep working on the plan.
UsageUse it before a full clause: however you do it.
Note
- 5In any way you like, or in a messy, random way.
Like throwing your clothes on without thinking about it.
Just dress however. It's a casual party.
Just throw your coats on the bed however and come eat.
UsagePut it at the end: do it however.
Similaranyhow
- 6A stronger way to ask 'how', often showing surprise.
Like asking 'how on earth did that happen?'
However did you fix the engine so quickly?
However do they expect us to finish by Friday?
UsageYou can also write it as two words: How ever did they do it?
Note
- 7No matter what happens, in any case.
Our chief end and highest interest is happiness : And this is happiness to be freed from all (if it may) [or] however from the greatest evils.
c. 1680, John TillotsonHere, however means at any rate, or at least, from the worst evils.Note
Showing meanings only.
Practice
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Origin
It comes from Middle English and is made of two parts: 'how' and 'ever'.
Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 2 facts
- 'However' comes from Middle English. en.wiktionary.org
- 'However' is made from 'how' and 'ever'. en.wiktionary.org