however

Everyday

1. However means but, or in spite of that. It shows that something different or surprising comes next. tree →
2. However also means in whatever way: do it however you like. tree →
3. However also means no matter how: however hard he tried, the jar stayed shut. tree →
4. In questions, however means how (showing surprise): however did you find it? tree →

In the lessons

In maths: a story word that turns the story; often marks a change after the first fact, and the next part tells the action (often taking away); «however many you take» means in every case. In writing: a joining word between two ideas that differ. Phrases: however much, however many, however hard, however you like.

Examples

• She had 20 sweets; however, she gave 6 away. tree →
• He planned to read 50 pages; however, he read only 30. tree →
• The shop had 10 cakes; however, 4 were sold. tree →
• However many you take, 2 will be left. tree →
• It was raining. However, we still went to the park. tree →
• However hard I try, I cannot whistle. tree →
• You can draw it however you like. tree →
• However did you get up there? tree →
• However, I will do my best. tree →

Note

When it means «but», put a comma after it at the start of a sentence: However, … Signals a change is coming; read the next part for the action (often taking away). No operation by itself.

In Jewish tradition

In maths: a story word that turns the story; often marks a change after the first fact, and the next part tells the action (often taking away); «however many you take» means in every case. In writing: a joining word between two ideas that differ. Phrases: however much, however many, however hard, however you like.

Examples

• This opinion, however, he afterwards revoked. (See Dr. Graetz's "History of the Jews," Vol. (Sefer Yetzirah, Kalisch 1877) tree →
• Three of them, however, are the first elements, fundamentals or mothers, seven double and twelve simple consonants. (Sefer Yetzirah, Kalisch 1877) tree →
• Three of them, however, are fundamental letters, or mothers, seven double and twelve simple consonants; hence the spirit is the first one. (Sefer Yetzirah, Kalisch 1877) tree →

Note

When it means «but», put a comma after it at the start of a sentence: However, … Signals a change is coming; read the next part for the action (often taking away). No operation by itself.