however meaning and definition

HOWEVER adverb

Definition of however (adverb)

1. despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)
   • "although I'm a little afraid, however I'd like to try it"; "while we disliked each other, nevertheless we agreed"; "he was a stern yet fair master"; "granted that it is dangerous, all the same I still want to go"
   • synonyms: all the same, even so, nevertheless, nonetheless, notwithstanding, still, withal, yet
2. by contrast; on the other hand
   • "the first part was easy; the second, however, took hours"
3. to whatever degree or extent
   • "The results, however general, are important"; "they have begun, however reluctantly, to acknowledge the legitimacy of some of the opposition's concerns"
4. in whatever way or manner
   • "Victory, however it was brought about, was sweet"; "however he did it, it was very clever"