The word “however” is often used to show contrast or introduce an opposite idea in English. It’s a very common linking word in both spoken and written English. But if you use “however” too much, your writing or speech may sound repetitive. This article will help you learn 23 useful synonyms of “however” with their meanings and easy examples. These alternatives will make your English sound more natural, clear, and varied.
What Does “However” Mean?
The word “however” is used to:
- Show contrast between two ideas.
- Introduce a different opinion or unexpected result.
- Add balance to your writing or speaking.
Example:
I wanted to go out. However, it started raining.
Meaning: There is a contrast between wanting to go out and the rain stopping it.
Synonyms of However
Here is a list of useful alternatives to “however” that you can use in your writing and speaking.
| Synonym | Use in a Sentence | Meaning / Use |
|---|---|---|
| Nevertheless | It was dark; nevertheless, he walked alone. | Despite that |
| Nonetheless | It’s hard; nonetheless, he succeeded. | Despite the difficulty |
| Still | She was tired; still, she smiled. | In spite of that |
| Yet | He worked hard; yet, he failed. | Opposite result |
| But | I wanted to stay; but I left. | Simple contrast |
| Though | Though it rained, we enjoyed. | Mild contrast |
| Although | Although it’s late, he’s still working. | Contrast condition |
| Even so | He’s old; even so, he’s strong. | Despite that |
| That said | It’s a long road. That said, it’s worth it. | Adds a balancing idea |
| Having said that | It’s not perfect; having said that, it’s useful. | Expresses contrast softly |
| On the other hand | I like tea. On the other hand, coffee wakes me up. | Different opinion |
| Conversely | She likes cats. Conversely, I like dogs. | Shows opposite idea |
| In contrast | In contrast to last year, this year was great. | Comparing differences |
| By contrast | The house is old. By contrast, the garden looks new. | Emphasises difference |
| In spite of that | It was raining; in spite of that, they went out. | Despite something |
| Even though | Even though he’s young, he’s smart. | Despite a condition |
| Regardless | It’s expensive; regardless, I’ll buy it. | Without caring about difficulty |
| All the same | He’s slow; all the same, he finishes. | Despite the fact |
| Be that as it may | Be that as it may, we must try. | Formal contrast |
| Anyhow | It was raining; anyhow, we went out. | Informal way to continue |
| Anyway | It’s late; anyway, let’s go. | Moves to another point or contrast |
| Even then | He failed once; even then, he didn’t give up. | Despite what happened |
| Still and all | It’s risky; still and all, they tried. | Old-fashioned contrast phrase |
Examples of Synonyms Used in Sentences
- I love summer. Nevertheless, I sometimes miss the cold.
- The movie was long; nonetheless, it was interesting.
- He was tired; still, he helped me.
- It’s raining. Even so, we’ll go out.
- The plan is costly. That said, it may succeed.
- She’s smart. Conversely, her brother is lazy.
- By contrast, the new design is much better.
- He’s not rich. All the same, he’s happy.
Formal vs Informal Synonyms of However
| Formal Synonyms | Informal Synonyms |
|---|---|
| Nevertheless | Anyway |
| Nonetheless | Anyhow |
| In contrast | Still |
| Conversely | Yet |
| Be that as it may | Even then |
| On the other hand | That said |
| Having said that | All the same |
When to Use However and Its Synonyms
Use these words when you want to:
- Show a contrast between two ideas.
- Present an opposite opinion or different reason.
- Continue your point while adding a new thought.
Examples:
I like football. Still, I don’t play often.
The job is difficult. Nevertheless, I enjoy it.
He’s not rich. On the other hand, he’s very kind.
Summary on Synonyms of However
The word “however” is one of the most common linking words in English to show contrast or difference.
Using synonyms of “however”—like nevertheless, still, yet, or that said—helps make your English more natural, fluent, and interesting.
FAQs on Other Words for However
What can I say instead of “however”?
You can use nevertheless, still, yet, nonetheless, or on the other hand.
Is “however” formal or informal?
“However” is neutral. It can be used in both formal and informal writing.
What is the difference between “but” and “however”?
But joins two ideas in one sentence; however usually starts a new sentence.
Can I start a sentence with “however”?
Yes, but add a comma after it. Example: However, I don’t agree.
What are formal synonyms of “however”?
Nevertheless, nonetheless, in contrast, and conversely are more formal.
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