Conjunctions are words or groups of words that act as linkers. Their main functions are to connect words, phrases, clauses, and sentences. Now, we will examine whether the word ‘however’ is a conjunction or not.
The word ‘however‘ can be used as a conjunction. Though the word ‘however’ is not a coordinating conjunction like FANBOYS it can be used as a conjunction. It can be used in a sentence to connect two different ideas. Thus we can construct a single complex sentence.
Ex- There is not enough space for all to sit in the room; however we can manage.
Explanation- In this sentence, two ideas are joined with the word ‘however’ and make a single sentence.
Let us be familiar with more facts related to it.
When is ‘however’ a conjunction?
Here we shall discuss when the word ‘however’ is conjunction.
The word ‘however’ can commonly be used as an adverb. The word ‘however’ can be placed within a sentence to connect two ideas like conjunction. Thus it acts as conjunction and frames complex sentences.
Ex- Our pet cat prefers milk and fish; however, we can provide it with rice.
Explanation- In this example, the word ‘however’ acts as conjunction and joins two different ideas. In this way ‘however’ can work as a conjunction.
Why is ‘however’ a conjunctive adverb?
Besides working as conjunction the word ‘however’ is a conjunctive adverb. Now we will examine the fact.
The term ‘conjunctive adverb’ indicates the word that works as conjunction and this conjunction acts as an adverb. It modifies the verb or an adjective in the sentence. It mainly modifies the verb of the main clause.
The word ‘however’ acts in a sentence like a conjunctive adverb. Through we also represent a sequence, contrast, cause, and effect.
Ex- Sohini went to all the shops in the market; however she did not find what she wanted.
Explanation- In this sentence, we see that the word ‘however’ is used to join the clauses and brings the result.
Examples of ‘however’ as conjunction:
Let us get to know the sentences where the word ‘however’ is used as a conjunction.
| Serial number | Examples | Explanations |
| 1. | There is a computer in our house; however, my daughter wants a laptop. | Here it is seen that the word ‘however’ is used to join two clauses and acts as conjunction. |
| 2. | The weather is bad; however, we go out to play tennis. | In this sentence, the word ‘however’ works as a conjunction. It joins two clauses together and makes a single sentence. |
| 3. | Decorate the room well; however, there is a shortage of flowers. | This is the example where the word ‘however’ is used as a conjunction. It connects two separate ideas and makes a complex sentence. |
| 4. | Haren wanted to help me; however, he did. | Here it is found that the word ‘however’ joins the two ideas i.e. ‘Haren wanted to help me and I did it. |
| 5. | The president came to my assistance; however, I did it myself. | Here it is found that the word ‘however’ works as a conjunction and it joins the two ideas together to make a single sentence. |
When is ‘however’ not considered as conjunction?
The word ‘however’ is not considered conjunction. Let us examine the fact.
We can use the word ‘however’ as an adverb. Like an adverb, it can modify a verb in the concerned sentence. In everyday speech, we use the word ‘however’. It acts as a conjunctive adverb. We can place it in any part of the sentence.
Ex- However much Pulak earns, he cannot maintain his family properly.
Explanation- This sentence shows that the word ‘however’ functions as an adverb. Like a true adverb, It modifies the verb ‘earn’ and fulfills its criteria.
Examples of ‘however’ not considered as conjunctions:
The word ‘however’ is sometimes used as a conjunctive adverb. Let us get to know the fact with enough examples.
Follow the examples below.
| Serial number | Examples | Explanations |
| 1. | However hard he studied, he could not get success. | Here the word ‘however’ shows its function as an adverb. In this sentence. it modifies the adjective ‘hard’ |
| 2. | My friends are planning to go to Puri; however much it costs. | In this sentence, the word ‘however’ has the function of an adverb. It modifies the adjective ‘much’. |
| 3. | It is unlikely, however, that the price of essential goods is increasing. | Here ‘however’ is used as an adverb. It tells us more about the verb ‘increase’. |
Conclusion
The article is about the detailed discussion on the usages of ‘however’ as a conjunction. It will certainly help us to use it as a conjunctive adverb. The careful study will be beneficial to us.
Hi…. I am Goutam Datta. I have completed a double M. A. in English and B. Ed. I am a creative writer. Currently, I am a part of the LambdaGeeks.
