“However” can be used in multiple ways in a sentence, with varying punctuation.
Starting a sentence with “however”, with the meaning of “but”, can sometimes come across as abrupt or overly formal. As it tends to carry more weight than a simple “but,” it’s often better to position it elsewhere in the sentence.
Punctuation
1 Note the punctuation used in the following examples, where it is used as a contrast (or conjunctive adverb).
The correct punctuation when “however” is used as a conjunctive adverb in the middle of a sentence is a semicolon before and comma after it, or a new sentence starting with “however” followed by a comma.
- She enjoys playing tennis; however, she hasn’t had much time to practice lately.
- However, she hasn’t had much time to practice tennis lately.
This rule also applies to other words like “therefore,” “meanwhile,” and “nevertheless.”
2 “However” is used with commas on either side when it is used as an aside or interrupter.
- The report is due in three weeks. My colleague, however, is convinced we should finish it earlier.
- The ocean waves were so much fun. The seaweed, however, was not so pleasant.
Test yourself
Here are some examples with missing punctuation. Can you correct them?
Example 1: The team planned to hold the event outdoors however the weather forecast predicts rain.
Example 2: I wanted to go hiking however it started raining.
Example 3: The hike however was postponed due to rain.
Here is the answer key. How did you do?
Example 1: The team planned to hold the event outdoors; however, the weather forecast predicts rain. OR
The team planned to hold the event outdoors. However, the weather forecast predicts rain.
Example 2: I wanted to go hiking; however, it started raining.
Example 3: The hike, however, was postponed due to rain.
Other uses of “however” (not followed by a comma)
“However” can also appear without a comma when it’s used as an adverb to mean to whatever extent or degree:
- However long it takes, I will finish the project by Friday.
- However much you argue, the decision will remain the same.
________________________________________________
Author: Carol Waites
Presentation/editing by Christina O’Shaughnessy
https://worldwidewriting.org/
________________________________________________
Carol Waites (PhD)
Email: carolswritingtips@gmail.com
For more writing tips, consult my website:
https://carolswritingtips.com/writingtips/
To sign up for the newsletter, go here:
https://carolswritingtips.com/