however

Used to introduce a fact that differs from what you have just said.

• It was cold. However, we went outside.
• The room is small; however, it feels comfortable.
• She was tired. She agreed, however, to help.

Similar words: nevertheless, nonetheless, still

Common phrases: however in practice, however this means, however the result

Used to say that any amount or degree of something makes no difference.

• Come over, however late it is.
• However small the room is, we can use it.
• She kept trying, however hard it became.

How to use it: however + adjective/adverb + clause (However tired you are, you still need to eat.); however much/many + clause (Take a break, however much work you have.)

Similar words: no matter how

Common phrases: however much, however small, however hard

In whatever way something is done.

• However you travel, the journey takes hours.
• It tastes good however you cook it.
• However we solve this, someone will be unhappy.

How to use it: however + subject + verb (However you arrange the chairs, leave space for the door.)

Similar words: in whatever way

Common phrases: however you choose, however you travel, however it happens

Used to ask how something happened, with strong surprise.

• However did you get here?
• However could she lift that box?
• However was he able to escape?

How to use it: however + auxiliary + subject + verb? (However did you find this tiny shop?)

Similar words: how on earth

Common phrases: however did someone, however could someone, however was something

In any way you choose, without a particular plan or rule.

• Just arrange it however.
• She put the cushions however, without any plan.
• You can fold it however; I do not mind.

Similar words: anyhow, any way

Common phrases: do it however, arrange it however, put it however

Used to join two statements whose ideas differ or oppose each other.

• I asked him; however, he refused.
• We planned a picnic; however, it rained.
• She wanted to stay; however, she had to leave.

Similar words: but, yet

Common phrases: however someone decided, however someone refused, however something changed