OPPOSITE CONNECTORS: 'HOWEVER'

Good morning everybody and welcome back to the Daily Vitamin! I hope you had a wonderful weekend.

Over the years, we have received a lot of requests to give information about Connectors or linking words in English.

Connectors are used to show relationships between ideas. In May of this year (May 4th to May 8th), we looked at connectors that continue the same idea or add another fact or idea to what you have already said (also, moreover, furthermore, besides, etc). This week, we will look at connectors that contrast opposite ideas.

Today's word is: however

It is used: to give "surprising" information or to change the subject. In informal language, we often use the word but instead.

Example 1: Learning English can be a very fun activity. However, if you really want to learn you have to be consistent and work a little bit each day.

Example 2: I understand your problem. However, I can't help you.

Example 3: It has been very nice to speak with you, Janet. However, I didn't come here to see you. Is Anne here?

Notice that in all of these examples, however introduces a phrase that in some way "contradicts" or contrasts with the first part of the sentence.

⇒ In order to get some writing practice, I encourage you to write your own sentence (or two) with today's connector word. You can post your sentence to one of our social media sites (Facebook or Bluesky) and we will give you feedback about your writing as soon as we can.

Have a great day!