however

[ hou-ev-er ]

adverb

1. nevertheless; yet; on the other hand; in spite of that:

   We have not yet won; however, we shall keep trying.

2. to whatever extent or degree; no matter how:

   However much you spend, I will reimburse you.

3. in whatever manner:

   We will allow you to travel however you please.

4. how; how under the circumstances:

   However did you manage?

conjunction

1. in whatever way, manner, or state:

   Arrange your hours however you like.

however

/ haʊˈɛvə /

sentence connector

1. still; nevertheless
2. on the other hand; yet

adverb

1. by whatever means; in whatever manner
2. used with adjectives expressing or admitting of quantity or degree no matter how

   however long it takes, finish it

3. an emphatic form of how 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of however¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, however is from the Middle English word hou-ever. See how ¹, ever

Example Sentences

Bootleg liquor producers sometimes add it to their drinks, however, as a cheap way to increase alcohol content.

From BBC

Messaging services and gaming sites, however, will not be restricted, which has prompted questions over how regulators will determine what is and isn’t a social media platform in a fast-moving landscape.

From BBC

His plan, however, is likely to face enormous financial and logistics hurdles, as well as immediate legal challenges from rights groups.

From BBC

For most of the century since World War I, however, First Amendment norms kept prosecutors from trying to use that law to treat journalistic-style activities as a crime.

From New York Times

Faster implementation, however, risks increasing gasoline prices — a significant burden on low-income communities already struggling with costs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• nevertheless
• nonetheless
• notwithstanding
• still
• yet

When To Use

What are other ways to say however?

The adverb however means “on the other hand” or “in spite of that.” How does it compare to however, but, nevertheless, still, and yet? Learn more on Thesaurus.com.