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however

adv.
US //ˌhaʊˈɛvɝ// UK //haʊˈɛvɐ// how·ev·er
  1. 1 no matter how (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used to say that the degree or amount of something does not change the situation.

    used to indicate that a state or action remains the same regardless of the extent or degree of a quality.

    Example

    However hard he tried, he couldn't open the heavy wooden door.

    Example

    However carefully the data is collected, there will always be a small margin of error in the final report.

    Usage

    Usually followed immediately by an adjective or another adverb.
  2. 2 in whatever way (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    in whatever way you like or in any way that is possible.

    in whatever manner or way; used to express that the method of doing something is not restricted.

    Example

    You can decorate the room however you want.

    Example

    The software allows users to organise their files however they see fit, providing maximum flexibility for different workflows.
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  1. 3 emphatic how (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    an emphatic way of asking 'how' when you are surprised.

    used as an intensive form of 'how' to express surprise, frustration, or disbelief in a question.

    Example

    However did you manage to find my lost keys in this mess?

    Example

    However did they finish the construction project so far ahead of the scheduled deadline?

    Usage

    Often written as two words ('how ever') in formal contexts, but frequently joined in modern informal writing.
    • how on earth
Origin

From Middle English however, how-ever, how-evere; equivalent to how + ever. Compare howsoever.

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