however
Americanadverb
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nevertheless; yet; on the other hand; in spite of that.
We have not yet won; however, we shall keep trying.
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to whatever extent or degree; no matter how.
However much you spend, I will reimburse you.
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in whatever manner.
We will allow you to travel however you please.
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how; how under the circumstances.
However did you manage?
conjunction
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still; nevertheless
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on the other hand; yet
adverb
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by whatever means; in whatever manner
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(used with adjectives expressing or admitting of quantity or degree) no matter how
however long it takes, finish it
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an emphatic form of how 1
Usage
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.
Etymology
Origin of however
First recorded in 1350–1400, however is from the Middle English word hou-ever. See how 1, ever
Explanation
However means "even so" or, "on the other hand," and you use it to introduce a complication or contradiction. You might tell your friend, "I love your cooking. However, I already have plans for dinner tonight." The adverb however has a few different meanings. It often shows contrast. You might be training to become a lawyer, however your secret dream is to dance. However also means "in whatever way." You might say to your father, "However you have to do it, convince Mom to buy me that car!" It also means "to whatever degree." However certain you are in your gut that Mr. Plum is the murderer, you need to wait for evidence before accusing him.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
However, transport costs were still up 6.6% on the year, making them the second-biggest driver of annual inflation, which remains well above the Reserve Bank of Australia’s 2.5% target.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026
However, companies offered struggling customers repayment plans and arranged breaks from paying bills, as part of various support measures, it said.
From BBC • May 26, 2026
However, prior to earnings, investor confidence in Zscaler appeared to be on the upswing.
From Barron's • May 26, 2026
However, the reconciliation appeared to be short-lived, with Lindsie saying on her podcast in March 2025 that she hadn’t had any contact with her dad in a year.
From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026
However, Penelope insisted that the dodos would be happier in the chicken coop, with all their dodo brothers and sisters nearby.
From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
