Definition however in British English

however adverb, conjunction

adverb, conjunction

/haʊˈevə(r)/

However can be used in the following ways:

as an adverb showing how a sentence is related to what has already been said: Prices have been rising. It is unlikely, however, that this increase will continue.

as an adverb (before an adjective or adverb): However hard he tried, he could not control his feelings. (before ‘much’ or ‘many’): However much they earn, they will never be satisfied. (starting a question): However did you manage to make him change his mind?

as a conjunction (joining two clauses): You can arrange the furniture however you want.However you look at it, it’s an enormous problem.

used when you are saying something that seems surprising after your previous statement, or that makes your previous statement seem less true

Example

The president was confident of success. His advisers were not so sure, however.

Example

Diamond mining is a highly profitable industry. There are, however, certain risks involved.

used when you are changing the subject

Example

I'm delighted I could be here today. However, I didn't come here to talk about myself.

used for saying that it makes no difference how good, bad, difficult etc something is or how much there is of something

Example

She would still love him however badly he behaved.

Example

If you take money from the fund, however small the amount, you must record it in this book.

Example

We're determined to have a wonderful holiday, however much it costs.

Example

However many times you explain things, you can never get him to understand.

Example

We are determined to solve this problem, however long it takes.

used instead of 'how' in questions for emphasizing that you think something is surprising

Example

'The original documents got lost.' 'However did that happen?'

Synonyms and related words

whatever whenever whoever

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in whatever way someone chooses

Example

We let the kids decorate their rooms however they want to.

Example

However you look at it, this is very worrying news.