however
UK[haʊˈevə(r)]US[haʊˈevər]
adv
used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously
adv
to whatever degree or in whatever manner
Morpheme Breakdown
how
ever
how
ever
Etymology
The word 'however' is a compound formed in Middle English from the interrogative adverb 'how' and the intensifying adverb 'ever'. Its original sense in the 14th century was "in whatever way" or "to whatever extent," directly combining the notions of manner and indefinite degree. Over time, it developed its primary modern function as a conjunctive adverb in the 16th century, used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement. This evolution reflects a shift from a literal, open-ended meaning of "in any manner whatsoever" to a more specific, logical function of marking opposition or exception within discourse.
Analysis
Structure: how + ever
- how (Old English 'hū', manner or way; interrogative/relative adverb)
- ever (Old English 'ǣfre', always, at any time; adverb of indefinite time)
Examples
The plan seemed perfect; however, several unforeseen problems arose.
You can arrange the furniture however you like.
However hard he tried, he could not solve the puzzle.