however Meaning, Definition & Usage

adverb despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)
nonetheless; nevertheless; all the same; withal; even so; notwithstanding; still; yet.
- although I'm a little afraid, however I'd like to try it
- while we disliked each other, nevertheless we agreed
- he was a stern yet fair master
- granted that it is dangerous, all the same I still want to go
adverb by contrast; on the other hand; the second, however, took hours"
- the first part was easy
adverb to whatever degree or extent
- The results, however general, are important
- they have begun, however reluctantly, to acknowledge the legitimacy of some of the opposition's concerns
adverb in whatever way or manner
- Victory, however it was brought about, was sweet
- however he did it, it was very clever

Sometimes contracted into howe'er.

In whetever manner, way, or degree.
However yet they me despise and spite. Spenser.

Howe'er the business goes, you have made fault. Shak.
At all events; at least; in any case.
Our chief end is to be freed from all, if it may be, however from the greatest evils. Tillotson.

Nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet; still; though; as, I shall not oppose your design; I can not, however, approve of it.
In your excuse your love does little say; You might howe'er have took a better way. Dryden.
Syn. -- However, At least, Nevertheless, Yet. These words, as here compared, have an adversative sense in reference to something referred to in the context. However is the most general, and leads to a final conclusion or decision. Thus we say, the truth, however, has not yet fully come out; i.e., such is the speaker's conclusion in view of the whole case. So also we say, however, you may rely on my assistance to that amount; i. e., at all events, whatever may happen, this is my final decision. At least is adversative in another way. It points out the utmost concession that can possibly be required, and still marks the adversative conclusion; as, at least, this must be done; whatever may be our love of peace, we must at least maintain the rights of conscience. Nevertheless denotes that though the concession be fully made, it has no bearing of the question; as, nevertheless, we must go forward. Yet signifies that however extreme the supposition or fact comceded may be, the consequence which might naturally be expected does not and will not follow; as, though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee; though he slay me, yet will I trust in him. Cf. But.