Langimage
English

However

|how/ev/er|

B1

🇺🇸

/haʊˈɛvər/

🇬🇧

/haʊˈɛvə/

(however)

in any way

Base Form
however
Etymology
Etymology Information

'However' originates from Middle English, specifically the combination of 'how' and 'ever', where 'how' meant 'in what way' and 'ever' meant 'at any time'.

Historical Evolution

'How' and 'ever' were combined in Middle English to form 'however', which has retained its meaning in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'in whatever way', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'nevertheless'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.

She said she would come; however, she didn't show up.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35