The word however is a linking phrase used to show contrast or introduce a point that seems opposite to what you just said. Use it when you want to say “but” in a more formal or structured way, especially in essays, emails, and professional writing. It signals a shift in direction without breaking the flow of your argument.
Quick Answer
Use however to connect two contrasting ideas. Place it at the start of a new sentence (followed by a comma) for strong contrast, or insert it mid-sentence (between two commas) for a softer shift. Avoid using it to connect two complete sentences without proper punctuation—that creates a comma splice.
Understanding the Role of ‘however’
In English, however belongs to a group of words called conjunctive adverbs. Its main job is to show that the next idea contradicts, limits, or refines the previous one. Unlike the simple conjunction but, however adds a layer of formality and emphasis. You will find it frequently in academic essays, business reports, and formal correspondence.
Consider the difference between these two sentences:
- She wanted to attend the meeting, but she was too ill.
- She wanted to attend the meeting. However, she was too ill.
The second version feels more deliberate and weighty. The pause created by the period and the word however gives the contrast more impact.
Where to Place ‘however’ in a Sentence
Placement changes the rhythm and emphasis of your sentence. Here are the three main positions:
1. At the Beginning of a Sentence
This is the most common and safest position. It clearly marks a contrast with the previous sentence. Always follow it with a comma.
- The project was completed on time. However, the budget was exceeded.
- He studied hard for the exam. However, he still felt unprepared.
2. In the Middle of a Sentence
Insert however between two commas to create a softer, more conversational contrast. This works well in emails and informal writing.
- The plan, however, did not account for unexpected delays.
- Her explanation, however, left many questions unanswered.
3. At the End of a Sentence
This position is less common and often used for dramatic effect or in spoken English. It can sound slightly old-fashioned or literary.
- We expected a quick resolution. The negotiations dragged on for weeks, however.
- He promised to arrive early. He showed up two hours late, however.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
However is generally considered formal. In casual conversation or text messages, native speakers usually prefer but or though. Use however when you want to sound professional, academic, or polite.
| Context | Formal Example | Informal Example |
|---|---|---|
| Academic essay | The results support the hypothesis. However, further research is needed. | The results support the hypothesis, but we need more research. |
| Business email | We appreciate your offer. However, we must decline at this time. | Thanks for the offer, but we have to say no. |
| Everyday conversation | I wanted to go. However, I was too tired. | I wanted to go, but I was too tired. |
Comparison: ‘however’ vs. Other Contrast Words
Learners often confuse however with similar words. Here is a quick comparison:
| Word | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| However | Formal contrast, conjunctive adverb | The weather was bad. However, we continued our hike. |
| But | Informal contrast, conjunction | The weather was bad, but we continued our hike. |
| Nevertheless | Strong formal contrast, often dismisses previous point | The weather was bad. Nevertheless, we continued our hike. |
| Although | Subordinating conjunction, introduces a dependent clause | Although the weather was bad, we continued our hike. |
| On the other hand | Introduces an alternative viewpoint | The weather was bad. On the other hand, the trail was empty. |
Natural Examples
Seeing however in real contexts helps you understand its rhythm. Read these examples aloud to feel the pause and contrast.
- The company reported strong sales this quarter. However, profits fell due to rising costs.
- I enjoy working from home. The lack of social interaction, however, can be isolating.
- She is an excellent writer. Her spelling, however, needs improvement.
- The movie received poor reviews. It was, however, a box office success.
- We planned a picnic for Saturday. It rained all day, however.
Common Mistakes
Even advanced learners make errors with however. Watch out for these three pitfalls.
Mistake 1: Comma Splice
Do not use a comma to connect two independent clauses with however. You need a period or a semicolon.
- Incorrect: She wanted to join, however, she was too busy.
- Correct: She wanted to join. However, she was too busy.
- Correct: She wanted to join; however, she was too busy.
Mistake 2: Overuse in Informal Writing
Using however too often in casual emails or text messages can sound stiff or unnatural. Save it for formal contexts.
- Too formal: I can’t come to the party. However, I hope you have fun.
- Better: I can’t come to the party, but I hope you have fun.
Mistake 3: Wrong Position for Emphasis
Placing however at the end of a sentence can confuse readers if the contrast is not clear from context.
- Unclear: He finished the race. He was exhausted, however.
- Clearer: He finished the race. However, he was exhausted.
Better Alternatives to ‘however’
Sometimes however is not the best choice. Here are alternatives for different situations:
- But – Use in everyday conversation, informal emails, and simple writing.
- Yet – Use for a stronger, more dramatic contrast, often in literary or persuasive writing.
- Nevertheless – Use when you want to emphasize that the second point remains true despite the first.
- Nonetheless – Similar to nevertheless, slightly more formal.
- Still – Use in informal contexts to show a continuing situation despite an obstacle.
- Though – Use at the end of a sentence for a casual contrast (e.g., “It was expensive. I bought it, though.”).
When to Use ‘however’ in Different Writing Situations
In Essays
Use however to introduce a counterargument or to show a limitation in your evidence. It signals to the reader that you are about to present a different perspective.
- The theory appears sound. However, it fails to account for cultural differences.
- Many studies support this claim. However, the sample sizes were small.
In Emails
In professional emails, however softens a refusal or introduces a condition. It sounds more polite than a blunt but.
- We appreciate your application. However, we have decided to move forward with another candidate.
- The deadline is Friday. However, we can offer a short extension if needed.
In Conversation
In spoken English, however is rare. Use it only when you want to sound deliberate or when giving a formal presentation. In everyday talk, stick with but or though.
- Formal speech: The plan is ambitious. However, I believe we can succeed.
- Casual speech: The plan is ambitious, but I think we can do it.
Mini Practice Section
Test your understanding. Choose the correct option for each sentence.
-
She studied all night. _____, she failed the test.
- A) However
- B) But
- C) Although
Answer: A) However (correct punctuation with a period before it)
-
I wanted to help, _____, I had no time.
- A) however
- B) however,
- C) ; however,
Answer: C) ; however, (semicolon is needed to connect two independent clauses)
-
The restaurant was fully booked. We managed to get a table, _____.
- A) however
- B) but
- C) though
Answer: A) however (end position for dramatic effect)
-
_____ the rain, the event was a success.
- A) However
- B) Despite
- C) But
Answer: B) Despite (however cannot be followed by a noun phrase)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I start a sentence with ‘however’?
Yes, absolutely. Starting a sentence with however is correct and common in formal writing. Just remember to follow it with a comma. Some older style guides advised against it, but modern English accepts it without issue.
2. What is the difference between ‘however’ and ‘but’?
However is a conjunctive adverb that usually begins a new sentence or is set off by commas. It is more formal and creates a stronger pause. But is a coordinating conjunction that connects two clauses within the same sentence. It is shorter, simpler, and more common in everyday speech.
3. Can I use ‘however’ twice in one paragraph?
Yes, but use it sparingly. Using however too often can make your writing feel repetitive or heavy. If you need multiple contrasts, vary your language with words like nevertheless, on the other hand, or yet.
4. Is ‘however’ always followed by a comma?
When however begins a sentence, yes, it is always followed by a comma. When it appears in the middle of a sentence, it is enclosed by two commas. When it appears at the end, it is preceded by a comma. The only exception is when however is used as an adverb meaning “to whatever extent” (e.g., “However you look at it, the problem remains”), which is a different usage.
Final Tips for Using ‘however’
To master however, practice reading it in context. Look for it in news articles, academic papers, and professional emails. Notice how it creates a pause and signals a shift. When you write, ask yourself: “Do I want a strong, formal contrast?” If yes, use however. If you want a quick, natural contrast, use but. With practice, the choice will become automatic.
For more help with linking words, explore our guides on Linking Words by Purpose and Transition Word Examples. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us directly.
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