Prompt Proofing Blog Post: Grammar Tips - However

For some reason, the use of the word 'however' as a conjunction can cause some people to go into panic mode.

2012-09-07

VANCOUVER, BC, September 07, 2012 (Press-News.org) For some reason, the use of the word 'however' as a conjunction can cause some people to go into panic mode. Some will even go to extreme lengths to reword sentences so as to avoid this pesky word altogether. But there is no need to fear 'however'.

Firstly, remember that 'however' can be used in three ways:
- as a conjunctive adverb separating two independent clauses
- as a conjunctive adverb separating clauses that are not independent
- or as an adverb. The way in which you are using it determines the way in which it is punctuated. Consider the following examples:

1. The relay team was initially awarded the gold medal; however, the team was later disqualified when it was noticed that one of the team members had fumbled a takeover, running outside the zone.

In this case, 'however' acts as a conjunctive adverb, joining two independent clauses. (If you are unsure whether or not a clause is independent, simply ask yourself if each clause could stand alone as a sentence.)

When 'however' serves this purpose, it must be preceded by a semi-colon - as is the norm for joining independent clauses - and followed by a comma.

2. It was pouring with rain when they arrived, the fashion parade, however, went ahead regardless.

In this case "..went ahead regardless." is clearly not an independent clause; it is therefore fine to punctuate with commas either side of 'however'.

3. However tired I am, I can still manage to finish a chapter before falling asleep.

OR

4. I will buy that sweater however much it costs.

In these examples, 'however' simply works as an adverb and no punctuation is necessary.

Check back next month for more Prompt Proofing grammar tips.

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Prompt Proofing Blog Post: Grammar Tips - However

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