however

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /hɑʊˈεvə/, SAMPA: /haU"Ev@/
• (US) enPR: /houĕvʹər/, IPA ^(key): /haʊˈɛvɚ/, SAMPA: /haU'Ev@`/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Adverb

Positive however

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. (sentence adverb) You use however to show that there is a contrast between two ideas.

   It was very long. However, it was not long enough.

   In 1966, there just wasn't enough money. The next year, however, the economic situation was already improving.

   The price has gone down around the world. The Japanese price has remained unchanged, however.

2. (relative) You used however to say the size, amount, or other quality is not important.

   You call me however late you arrive.

   We should care about all living things, however small.

   I have to buy it, however much it costs.

3. (relative) in any way

   However you say it, it means the same thing.

   You can do it however you like.

4. (question) how

   However were you able to do it?

Synonyms

• though
• although
• while
• nevertheless
• no matter
• how