You can start a sentence with however, but only when it functions as a conjunctive adverb introducing a contrast. Its use requires a semicolon or period before it and a comma after it, especially in formal writing.
However is not a coordinating conjunction like "but" or "and." It is a subordinating transitional word that signals a shift in idea. Because it introduces a clause that contrasts with the previous one, it must be set off properly. Starting a sentence with however is standard in academic, legal, and professional writing, though it's less common in casual speech.
Consider this example: "The results were positive. However, they did not meet the threshold for statistical significance." Here, however introduces a contrasting idea after a complete sentence. The semicolon before however and the comma after it follow standard punctuation rules. Without proper punctuation, the sentence becomes awkward or unclear.
When used at the beginning of a sentence, however acts as a connector between two independent clauses. It expresses contrast, often in formal or analytical contexts. The word itself is derived from Old French "howeuer," meaning "in whatever way," and evolved into a logical connector in English.
Using however at the start of a sentence is acceptable in most formal writing styles, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. According to the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL), "However may begin a sentence when it means 'however' or 'in contrast.'" This usage is widely accepted in scholarly journals and published essays.
A common mistake is treating however as a replacement for "but" within a single clause. For example: "I wanted to go, however I stayed home." This is incorrect because however cannot join two independent clauses without proper punctuation. The correct version uses a semicolon: "I wanted to go; however, I stayed home."
There are two primary ways to use however in writing:
| Usage Type | Correct Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Beginning a sentence | Semicolon before, comma after | The plan was sound; however, execution failed. |
| Inside a sentence | Commas on both sides | She studied hard, however, she didn't pass. |
When however appears mid-sentence, it's treated as a parenthetical element. The commas signal that the phrase can be removed without breaking the sentence's core meaning. This usage is more flexible and slightly less formal than placing it at the start.
Despite common belief, however is not inherently "stiff" or "overly formal." It's appropriate in business reports, research papers, and policy documents. The perception of formality stems from its frequent use in written arguments rather than spoken dialogue.
Many writers confuse however with "nevertheless," "yet," or "though." While these words share similar meanings, they differ in structure and tone. However is more precise in signaling logical contrast between distinct ideas.
Another frequent error is omitting punctuation. A sentence like "However the data showed no trend" lacks proper separation. This creates a run-on effect. Always use a semicolon before however when it begins a sentence, or split the sentence into two with a period.
Some style guides, such as the Associated Press Stylebook, recommend avoiding however at the start of a sentence in news writing due to pacing concerns. AP prefers shorter transitions like "but" or "still" for brevity. But in longer-form journalism, academic work, or technical documentation, however remains valid and effective.
One non-obvious rule: however should not be used to introduce a dependent clause. For example, "However you feel, we must proceed" is incorrect. The word cannot function as a subordinator in that role. Instead, use "no matter how" or "regardless of how."
Consider this excerpt from a peer-reviewed study in *Nature Human Behaviour* (2021):
Participants reported high levels of satisfaction. However, their actual engagement with the platform declined over time. This suggests a disconnect between perceived value and sustained use.
The sentence begins with however, followed by a semicolon and a comma. The contrast is clear: satisfaction exists, but behavior does not match it. This structure strengthens the argument and maintains formal tone.
I once edited a grant proposal where the applicant wrote: "The model worked well. However, it failed under stress conditions." I corrected it to: "The model worked well; however, it failed under stress conditions." The change improved clarity and met funding agency standards.
Words like "therefore," "," and "meanwhile" serve different purposes. However specifically indicates contrast. Using it incorrectly can distort meaning.
For example:
Confusing these transitions leads to logical errors. Using however to mean "also" or "so" misleads readers. Always match the word to its intended function.
Other transitional words that can start sentences include "nevertheless," "still," and "yet." But "albeit" is different-it's a conjunction that introduces a concession within a clause. You can't start a sentence with "albeit" the way you can with "however." That's a key distinction.
Starting a sentence with however is grammatically sound when done correctly. It enhances precision in writing and is widely accepted across disciplines. Avoid informal shortcuts, respect punctuation rules, and choose your transitions based on meaning-not preference.