Quick Answer: Using ‘however’ as a Linking Phrase

Use however to show contrast between two ideas. In formal writing, place it at the start of a new sentence followed by a comma. In emails and conversation, you can place it later in the sentence, still with commas around it. Do not use however to join two sentences with only a comma (that creates a comma splice). Instead, use a semicolon before however and a comma after it, or start a new sentence.

How ‘however’ Works as a Linking Word

However belongs to a group of linking words called conjunctive adverbs. These words connect two independent clauses by showing the relationship between them. Unlike conjunctions such as but or yet, conjunctive adverbs can move around in a sentence. This flexibility makes however very useful, but it also creates confusion about punctuation.

Three Positions for ‘however’

You can place however in three positions within a sentence or between sentences:

• Beginning of a sentence: However, the results were not what we expected.
• Middle of a sentence: The results, however, were not what we expected.
• End of a sentence: The results were not what we expected, however.

All three positions are grammatically correct, but they create slightly different emphasis. The beginning position gives the strongest contrast. The middle position feels more natural in formal writing. The end position is more common in spoken English and informal emails.

Formal vs. Informal Tone

The tone of your writing should guide how you use however.

Formal Writing (Essays, Reports, Academic Papers)

In formal writing, however is preferred over but when you want a more sophisticated tone. Use it at the beginning of a sentence or after a semicolon.

Example:
The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions. However, the temperature fluctuated slightly during the final hour.

Example with semicolon:
The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions; however, the temperature fluctuated slightly during the final hour.

Informal Writing (Emails, Text Messages, Conversation)

In everyday communication, however can sound stiff or overly formal. Native speakers often use but instead. If you do use however in conversation, place it at the end of the sentence for a more natural feel.

Example (conversation):
I wanted to go to the party. I had too much work, however.

Example (email):
Thanks for your proposal. We like the overall direction. The budget, however, needs some adjustment.

Comparison Table: ‘however’ vs. Other Contrast Linking Words

Natural Examples of ‘however’ in Context

Here are examples that show how however works in real writing and speech.

In an Academic Essay

Many studies support the benefits of a plant-based diet. However, long-term adherence remains a challenge for most participants.

In a Business Email

We appreciate your prompt response. The delivery date, however, does not match our original agreement.

In a Cover Letter

I have five years of experience in project management. However, I am eager to develop my skills in a new industry.

In Everyday Conversation

I like the apartment. The rent is a bit high, however.

In a News Article

The government announced new tax cuts. However, critics argue that the benefits will not reach low-income families.

Common Mistakes with ‘however’

Even advanced English learners make these errors. Avoid them to sound more natural and correct.

Mistake 1: Comma Splice

Incorrect: The team worked hard, however they missed the deadline.
Correct: The team worked hard. However, they missed the deadline.
Also correct: The team worked hard; however, they missed the deadline.

Using only a comma before however creates a comma splice. You need either a period (full stop) or a semicolon before it.

Mistake 2: Using ‘however’ When You Mean ‘but’

Incorrect: She was tired, however she kept working.
Correct: She was tired, but she kept working.

When the contrast is simple and the clauses are short, but is more natural. Reserve however for longer, more formal sentences.

Mistake 3: Overusing ‘however’

Awkward: I enjoy reading. However, I do not have much time. However, I try to read before bed. However, I often fall asleep.
Better: I enjoy reading, but I do not have much time. I try to read before bed, though I often fall asleep.

Using however too often makes your writing sound repetitive. Vary your linking words.

Mistake 4: Placing ‘however’ at the Beginning of Every Contrast Sentence

Monotonous: The plan seemed perfect. However, we discovered a flaw. However, we fixed it quickly. However, the client was not satisfied.
Better: The plan seemed perfect. We discovered a flaw, however, and fixed it quickly. Yet the client was not satisfied.

Better Alternatives to ‘however’

Depending on your context, another linking word may be more effective.

When to use ‘but’ instead

Use but in short, direct sentences, especially in conversation and informal emails. But is simpler and less formal.

Example: I wanted to help, but I was too busy.

When to use ‘nevertheless’ or ‘nonetheless’

Use these in very formal writing when you want to emphasize that the contrast is strong despite the previous point.

Example: The evidence was inconclusive. Nevertheless, the committee decided to proceed.

When to use ‘on the other hand’

Use this when you are presenting two balanced sides of an argument.

Example: Renting gives you flexibility. On the other hand, buying builds equity.

When to use ‘yet’

Use yet as a conjunction (like but) when you want a slightly more formal tone than but but less formal than however.

Example: It was a simple task, yet he struggled with it.

Mini Practice: Using ‘however’ Correctly

Complete each sentence with the correct form of however or choose the better linking word. Answers are below.

Question 1:
The company reported strong profits. _____, its stock price fell sharply.
a) However
b) But
c) However,

Question 2:
She studied hard for the exam. She did not pass, _____.
a) however
b) but
c) however,

Question 3:
I enjoy traveling, _____ I rarely have enough vacation days.
a) however
b) but
c) however,

Question 4:
The instructions were clear; _____, many users still made errors.
a) however
b) but
c) however,

Answers:
1. c) However, (Start a new sentence with a comma after however.)
2. a) however (At the end of the sentence, no comma before it, but a comma after it is optional in informal use.)
3. b) but (Short, direct contrast between two clauses.)
4. a) however (After a semicolon, followed by a comma.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I start a sentence with ‘however’?

Yes. Starting a sentence with however is grammatically correct and common in formal writing. Always follow it with a comma. Some older style guides discouraged this, but modern English accepts it.

2. What is the difference between ‘however’ and ‘but’?

But is a conjunction that joins two clauses in one sentence. However is a conjunctive adverb that usually connects two separate sentences or follows a semicolon. But is more direct and informal; however is more formal and flexible in position.

3. Do I always need a comma after ‘however’?

When however is used as a linking word to show contrast, yes, you need a comma after it if it begins a sentence. If it appears in the middle, put commas around it. If it appears at the end, a comma before it is optional in informal writing.

4. Can I use ‘however’ in the middle of a sentence without commas?

No. When however is used as a linking word meaning “nevertheless” or “but,” it must be set off by commas. Without commas, however can mean “no matter how” (e.g., However you look at it, the problem remains), which is a different usage.

Final Tip for English Learners

The best way to master however is to read how native writers use it. Pay attention to the punctuation and position in essays, news articles, and professional emails. Start by using it only at the beginning of a sentence in your formal writing. Once you feel confident, experiment with placing it in the middle or at the end for variety. For everyday conversation, remember that but is usually the more natural choice.

For more guidance on linking words, explore our Linking Words by Purpose section, or check Common Writing Mistakes for other punctuation pitfalls. If you have questions about this guide, visit our FAQ page or contact us.