Another Word for However: 12 Synonyms with Examples
“However” signals a contrast with what came before. It is one of the most overused linking words in essays, so it helps to have a few alternatives with slightly different weights.
As an adverb: in contrast; despite what has just been said
- nevertheless
- nonetheless
- yet
- still
- even so
- that said
- on the other hand
- by contrast
- all the same
As an adverb: in whatever way or to whatever degree
- no matter how
- in whatever way
- regardless of how
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- nevertheless
- Stronger and more formal than “however”: it stresses that something remains true despite the obstacle just mentioned.
- yet
- Short and punchy. It works best inside a sentence (“The plan was simple, yet it failed”) rather than at the start of one.
- on the other hand
- Best when you are weighing two sides that are roughly equal. Ideally it follows “on the one hand”.
- by contrast
- Use it to compare two different things side by side, not to concede a point.
- that said
- Conversational and slightly informal; good in blog posts and emails, less so in academic writing.
Example sentences
- nevertheless: The evidence was incomplete. Nevertheless, the committee approved the proposal.
- yet: The museum is small, yet it holds one of the finest collections in the region.
- on the other hand: Renting gives you flexibility; on the other hand, you build no equity.
- by contrast: Northern towns grew quickly in the 1800s. By contrast, the southern villages barely changed.
- that said: The hotel is expensive. That said, the breakfast alone is worth the price.
Opposite of however
- therefore
- consequently
- similarly
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “however”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adverb: withal, notwithstanding
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “however”?
The most useful alternatives are “nevertheless”, “nonetheless”, “yet”, “still”, “even so”. For the main sense (in contrast; despite what has just been said), “nevertheless” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “nevertheless” and “yet”?
nevertheless: Stronger and more formal than “however”: it stresses that something remains true despite the obstacle just mentioned. yet: Short and punchy. It works best inside a sentence (“The plan was simple, yet it failed”) rather than at the start of one.
What is the opposite of “however”?
Common antonyms are “therefore”, “consequently”, “similarly”.