Common Mistakes When Using ‘however’ in a Sentence

The most common mistake with ‘however’ is using it to connect two independent clauses with only a comma, which creates a comma splice. The correct way is to use a semicolon before ‘however’ and a comma after it, or to start a new sentence. For example, “I wanted to go; however, it was raining” is correct, while “I wanted to go, however it was raining” is not.

Quick Answer: How to Use ‘however’ Correctly

Use ‘however’ to show contrast. When it joins two complete sentences, put a semicolon (;) before it and a comma (,) after it. Alternatively, start a new sentence with “However,” followed by a comma. Never use only a comma before ‘however’ when it connects two full sentences.

Understanding the Role of ‘however’

‘However’ is a conjunctive adverb. It signals a contrast or exception to the previous statement. Its placement and punctuation change depending on the tone and formality of your writing.

Formal vs. Informal Tone

In formal writing, such as academic essays or professional emails, ‘however’ is often placed at the beginning of a sentence or after a semicolon. In informal conversation or casual emails, it is common to see ‘however’ placed later in the sentence, sometimes between commas. For example:

• Formal: The experiment failed. However, the data was still useful.
• Informal: The experiment failed. The data was still useful, however.

Email vs. Conversation Context

In emails, ‘however’ is useful for polite disagreement or introducing a limitation. In conversation, it can sound stiff if overused. A phrase like “but” is often more natural in spoken English.

Comparison Table: Correct vs. Incorrect Usage

Natural Examples of ‘however’ in Sentences

Here are examples that sound natural in everyday writing and speech:

• Academic writing: The results support the hypothesis. However, further research is needed.
• Professional email: We appreciate your proposal. However, we cannot accept the current timeline.
• Casual conversation: I wanted to go to the party. I was too tired, however.
• Daily English: The weather was bad. However, we still enjoyed our walk.

Common Mistakes with ‘however’

Mistake 1: The Comma Splice

This is the most frequent error. Writers use a comma to connect two complete sentences with ‘however’.

Wrong: The movie was long, however it was interesting.
Right: The movie was long; however, it was interesting.

Mistake 2: Missing Comma After ‘however’

When ‘however’ begins a sentence or follows a semicolon, it needs a comma after it.

Wrong: I wanted to help. However I was busy.
Right: I wanted to help. However, I was busy.

Mistake 3: Using ‘however’ as a Simple Conjunction

‘However’ is not a coordinating conjunction like ‘but’. You cannot use it to join two clauses with only a comma.

Wrong: She is smart, however lazy.
Right: She is smart but lazy. (Use ‘but’ for a simple contrast within a sentence.)

Better Alternatives to ‘however’

Sometimes ‘however’ is not the best choice. Here are alternatives depending on context:

• But: Use for a simple, direct contrast in informal or formal writing. Example: “I wanted to go, but I was sick.”
• Nevertheless: Use for a stronger contrast, often in formal writing. Example: “The task was difficult; nevertheless, we completed it.”
• On the other hand: Use to present an opposing viewpoint. Example: “The first option is cheap. On the other hand, it is less reliable.”
• Yet: Use for a contrast that is surprising. Example: “He is young yet very wise.”

When to Use ‘however’

Use ‘however’ when you need a formal or emphatic contrast. It is ideal for academic papers, business reports, and professional emails. In casual conversation, ‘but’ is usually better. If you want to sound more polite or nuanced in writing, ‘however’ is a good choice.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence.

Question 1

I wanted to buy the car __________ it was too expensive.

A. ; however,
B. , however,
C. ; however

Answer: A. The correct form is a semicolon, then ‘however’, then a comma.

Question 2

The team worked hard. __________ they lost the match.

A. However
B. However,
C. however

Answer: B. When starting a new sentence, ‘However’ is capitalized and followed by a comma.

Question 3

She is kind __________ strict.

A. ; however,
B. but
C. however

Answer: B. For a simple contrast within a sentence, ‘but’ is correct. ‘However’ would require a semicolon and a full clause.

Question 4

The project was delayed. The team remained optimistic, __________.

A. however
B. however,
C. ; however,

Answer: A. When ‘however’ comes at the end of a sentence, it is preceded by a comma and does not need a semicolon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can. It is common in both formal and informal writing. Just remember to put a comma after it. Example: “However, I disagree with your conclusion.”

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

‘But’ is a coordinating conjunction that joins two clauses directly. ‘However’ is a conjunctive adverb that requires a semicolon or a new sentence. ‘But’ is more common in conversation; ‘however’ is more formal.

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

Yes, when ‘however’ is used to mean “nevertheless” or “on the other hand” and it begins a clause, you need a comma after it. If it is used in the middle of a sentence to mean “in whatever way,” no comma is needed. Example: “However you look at it, the problem is serious.” (Here, ‘however’ means “in whatever way.”)

4. Is it wrong to use ‘however’ in the middle of a sentence?

No, it is not wrong. You can place ‘however’ later in a sentence for a less formal tone. Example: “The plan was good. It was too expensive, however.” Just make sure to use correct punctuation.

For more help with common usage mistakes, visit our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also explore Simple Sentence Examples and Writing Sentence Examples for additional practice. If you have questions, check our FAQ or contact us.