Can You Start a Sentence with However?

How to Use "However" at the Beginning of a Sentence

When you start a sentence with "however," it's usually followed by a comma. This comma separates "however" from the rest of the sentence and helps clarify the sentence structure.

Examples:

➡️ Example 1: I wanted to go to the park. However, it started raining, so I stayed home.

In this example, "however" introduces a contrast to the idea of going to the park.

➡️ Example 2: The new restaurant is popular. However, the service can be slow at times.

Here, "however" introduces an exception to the positive statement about the restaurant.

Common Mistakes When Using "However"

Forgetting the comma after "however":

❌ Incorrect: However the meeting was canceled.

✔️ Correct: However, the meeting was canceled.

Using "however" as a conjunction:

"However" is not a conjunction like "but" or "and." It should not be used to connect two independent clauses directly without proper punctuation.

❌ Incorrect: I wanted to go out however I was too tired.

✔️ Correct: I wanted to go out; however, I was too tired.

Other Ways to Use "However"

"However" can also appear in the middle or at the end of a sentence, depending on the emphasis you want to give.

In the middle of a sentence: I wanted to go to the party; I was, however, too tired to attend.

At the end of a sentence: I could help you with your homework; I’m quite busy right now, however.

FAQ

Is it formal to start a sentence with "however"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "however" is common in formal writing and helps to introduce contrasts or exceptions clearly.

Can "however" be used at the beginning of a paragraph?

Yes, "however" can start a new paragraph, especially when you are introducing a new idea that contrasts with the previous paragraph.

What is the difference between "however" and "but"?

"However" is typically used to introduce a contrast in a new sentence or clause, often with a more formal tone, while "but" is a conjunction used within a single sentence to join two contrasting ideas.

Should "however" always be followed by a comma?

When "however" is at the beginning of a sentence, it should be followed by a comma. When used in the middle or end of a sentence, commas can be used for clarity depending on the structure.

Can I use "however" in informal writing?

Yes, "however" can be used in both formal and informal writing, but it is more common in formal contexts. In casual writing, "but" might be preferred for simplicity.