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18 Other Ways to Say “However” in an Essay

words to use in an essay instead of however

You’re in the midst of a formal essay, and it looks like you’ve used “however” far too many times. Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Below, we’ve compiled a list of great alternative terms that you can use when “however” starts to feel worn out. So, keep reading to find what you seek!

Other Ways to Say “However”

Nevertheless, alternatively.

  • Nonetheless
  • All the same
  • In spite of
  • Notwithstanding
  • On the other hand
  • In contrast

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • It’s perfectly okay to use “however” in an essay.
  • “Nevertheless” is a good alternative to use to keep your paper diverse.
  • You can also use “alternatively” to avoid repetition of the word “however.”

Keep reading to see how we use our favorite synonyms for “however” in a couple of useful examples.

After that, we’ll consider whether it’s okay to use “however” in an essay. Is this considered bad practice?

If you’re wondering what to say instead of “however” in an essay, you might want to try “nevertheless.”

Firstly, like the original word, this term is used to introduce contrasting information relating to a previous statement. “Nevertheless” and “however” differ slightly in overall meaning.

However (or nevertheless), you’ll find that they can often be used interchangeably at the start of a sentence.

In other words, “nevertheless” is not a better word than “however” to use in formal or academic writing . But you can use this alternative to avoid repetition in your essay.

Finally, let’s see a couple of faux essay snippets making use of “nevertheless”:

Nevertheless , the ICO has provided several useful resources to guide sellers in their marketing pursuits.

After months of negotiations with unions, strikes broke out, nevertheless .

“Alternatively” is another word to use instead of “however” in academic writing. Like the original phrase, it can be used at the start of a sentence.

Essentially, “alternatively” means “as another possibility.” As such, it can be used to present a counterpoint to a previous statement in a paper.

However is just as effective as “alternatively,” but you can use this synonym to keep your phrasing diverse and your paper more interesting.

Lastly, let’s see a few examples making use of this term:

Small businesses feel that they have no choice but to cease the use of cold-calling altogether or, alternatively , undergo a costly remodeling of their marketing in an attempt to comply.

Alternatively , we may observe adaptation to these new conditions amongst our specimens.

Can I Use “However” in an Essay?

It is perfectly okay to use “however” in an essay . However, we do advise that you use it with caution.

Although it is not a bad word by any means, it is very easy to overuse it. This could be very detrimental to the appearance of your essay to any marker.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to use our list of synonyms to find other ways to say “however” when you have already used it.

Nevertheless, “however” is a perfectly polite word that can be used to introduce contrasting information or to transition to a new sentence. It is very effective, and you’re unlikely to find an academic paper that makes no use of it at all.

We hope you found our list of synonyms helpful. If you think you might need them the next time you’re drafting an essay, why not bookmark this page so you can find it again with ease?

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Grammarhow

10 Other Words for “However” in an Essay

words to use in an essay instead of however

When it comes to writing essays, you should always know appropriate words and phrases to help you spice things up.

You might have just used “however” to start a sentence. Although, is it the best choice to use in an essay?

This article has gathered the best synonyms to show you other ways to say “however” in an essay.

  • Nevertheless
  • Nonetheless
  • At the same time
  • With that said
  • Be that as it may

Keep reading to learn more words to replace “however” in an essay.

One of the more common synonyms for “however” in academic writing is “though.”

It works well at the start of a sentence to show that you’re contradicting the previous point .

Generally, it’s better to use something like “though” at the start of a sentence rather than to start a paragraph. It almost always has to relate to the previous sentence ; otherwise, it won’t make much sense.

You can also refer to the following examples:

  • I can keep checking the data as and when it’s necessary. Though , there’s no guarantee that anything will change.
  • We will continue to work together on the project. Though , it seems unlikely that we’ll find common ground again.

We recommend using “yet” as a formal synonym for “however.” It’s almost identical in how it works, but it’s much less common, making it more interesting for the reader.

Also, unlike “however,” you can include “yet” in the middle of a sentence or at the start of one.

It’s generally more common to see “yet” in the middle of the sentence. It works similarly to “but,” showing that you want to contradict information within the same sentence (as a separate clause).

Check out these examples if you’re still unsure:

  • This isn’t the only option, yet people seem to insist on us doing it like this. I do not know what else to say.
  • I haven’t decided on the best course of action. Yet , I am still going ahead with the project as written to try and figure it out.

3. Although

We’ve already touched on “though.” There’s a very similar alternative that helps to make things more readable with “although” as well.

Generally, “although” works quite well in academic writing. It’s good at the start of a sentence .

“Although” is effective because it shows you have considered another option and want to discuss more about it. It allows you to directly contradict your previous statement with no issue.

Perhaps the following examples will also help you;

  • We do not have all the answers to address this. Although , it would help if you listed the variables in one place.
  • I can assure you that the experiment was unbiased. Although , I do fear that some people will ignore the results.

4. Nevertheless

If you’re looking for a more formal synonym, try “nevertheless.” It’s great to use instead of “however” (once or twice in an essay) to introduce an unrelated or contradictory thought .

We recommend starting a sentence with “nevertheless” when possible. Of course, this only applies when the sentence relates to one you wrote previously.

You should also review these examples:

  • This isn’t the only way to go through with the project. Nevertheless , it seems to be the most cost-effective choice.
  • I will not condone this behavior. Nevertheless , I can understand why some people choose to act out in this way.

5. Nonetheless

There are technically two ways to write “nevertheless” from the previous section. The other way is “nonetheless,” and it is also a suitable formal synonym for “however.”

Feel free to switch between “nonetheless,” “nevertheless,” and “however” whenever possible. That way, you have three alternatives that all do the same thing.

Using alternatives in your academic writing allows your reader to stay engaged . It ensures you don’t use the same word more than once, which keeps things as interesting as possible.

Here are some essay samples to help you understand it:

  • We worked on it for a few months. Nonetheless , the results were not in our favor. It was quite thought-provoking.
  • The experiment was incorrect from the beginning. Nonetheless , I made the most of the work I’d already put in.

6. At the Same Time

You can try “at the same time” instead of “however” to mix things up.

Unlike other synonyms so far, “at the same time” is a phrase that works at the start of a new thought .

Generally, “at the same time” starts a sentence . It’s an introductory clause that shows how something is happening alongside another thing (even if the two contradict each other).

Perhaps these examples will also help you with it:

  • There wasn’t much left for us to discuss. At the same time , things seemed to continue going in a positive direction.
  • I tried everything I could to correct the issues. At the same time , the team seemed to work against me.

7. With That Said

For a formal way to say “however,” you can try “with that said.” It shows that you’re offering a counterpoint immediately after introducing a new idea in your essay.

We recommend including it to highlight different opinions . It ensures the reader is kept entertained by your writing and allowed to develop their thoughts.

Generally, “with that said” offers an idea or opinion that completely negates the previous sentence. It works best as an introductory clause to explore new alternatives.

You can also review these essay examples:

  • We could not complete the task in question. With that said , we did everything we could to advance the project.
  • There were many errors in the publication. With that said , it still went ahead, even though people knew it was wrong.

We recommend “still” as a word you can use instead of “however” in an essay. It’s effective at the start or in the middle of a sentence .

“Still” is highly effective in introducing contradictions . It shows you have thought about something in great detail, but you still think discussing other ideas is appropriate.

Again, most of the choices here that replace “however” allow the reader to make up their own minds. This is the mark of a well-written and well-argued essay.

Here are a few examples to help you with it:

  • I thought about changing the variables initially. Still , it made sense to continue working on the drafts.
  • We could not have made it clearer, and still , they did not want to follow through with our original plans.

9. Be That as It May

While it might not be the most common choice in academic writing, you can also include “be that as it may.”

It works well as an introductory clause after highlighting an important point.

Generally, “be that as it may” allows you to change the reader’s mind . This is done by introducing an argument or conflicting viewpoint.

Of course, there’s no guarantee the reader will agree with the view. Nevertheless, it’s worth including to see what they make of it.

Also, these examples should help you:

  • This was the best choice to make at the time. Be that as it may , many people still got upset about it.
  • We have decided to go through different methods. Be that as it may , there still isn’t one good choice.

Generally, “but” is considered to be a much simpler variation of “however.” You can include it in your academic writing to counter a point .

It means that you want to introduce a conflicting idea to the previous sentence.

Unlike “however,” “but” is more likely to come in the middle of the sentence . It isn’t as common as an adverb at the start of the sentence.

Here are some examples showing you how it works:

  • I do not have the means to complete the task, but I will do what I can to continue working on it.
  • This will be difficult to manage, but many avenues exist. I will let you know when I have more information.

martin lassen dam grammarhow

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

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Interesting Literature

22 of the Best Synonyms for ‘However’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

There are lots of strange ideas surrounding the word ‘however’. Some teachers tell their students they shouldn’t begin a new sentence with the word ‘but’, and should substitute the word ‘however’ instead.

However (as it were), this misses the fact that ‘but’ and ‘however’ are different classes of words, with ‘but’ being a conjunction and ‘however’ being an adverb.

Curiously, the Oxford English Dictionary ( OED ) names Shakespeare as the first citation of ‘however’ as a synonym for ‘but’ or ‘notwithstanding’: Shakespeare’s late history play Henry VIII , co-authored with John Fletcher, contains the lines: ‘All the Land knowes that: / How euer, yet there is no great breach.’ As the tautological ‘How euer, yet’ shows, ‘However’ is being used to mean ‘yet’ or ‘nevertheless’ here.

In any case, there’s nothing wrong with using ‘but’ at the start of a sentence – and much can go wrong if you misuse ‘however’, treating it as a simple synonym for ‘but’. Let’s take a closer look at some of the alternatives to the word ‘however’ and how they can be used in speech and writing.

Synonyms for ‘however’

Let’s start with BUT . This short, simple word is a conjunction, because it is used to join clauses together, much like ‘and’. Consider these two statements, involving going to look for the cat:

A: I looked in the garden and the cat was there.

B: I looked in the garden but the cat wasn’t there.

In both cases, the ( italicised ) conjunction) joins the two clauses together, but in B, of course, the cat isn’t there so the conjunction but is used. But we could also have used however here:

I looked in the garden; however , the cat wasn’t there.

However is an adverb rather than a conjunction, hence the comma that follows it. Adverbs are often words ending in -ly , such as happily or sadly or quickly , and one can imagine a slightly different sentence that might read:

I looked in the garden; happily , the cat was there.

So but is a simpler and more direct way of saying virtually the same thing as however in such examples.

Another short word, YET , serves a similar function, and can therefore serve as a synonym for however , as in ‘I looked in the garden, yet the cat wasn’t there’.

The word STILL works slightly differently from but and yet and is, in some ways, closer to however than either of those. Indeed, in syntax it is often literally closer to however , since the two are used together, as in this example from the historian Thomas Babington Macaulay in 1825: ‘Still, however, there was another extreme which, though far less dangerous, was also to be avoided.’

In such an example, ‘still’ means something similar to NONETHELESS (or NEVERTHELESS : they are both synonyms for each other): that is, DESPITE THAT , THAT BEING SAID , ALL THE SAME , or JUST THE SAME .

For instance, ‘I know it’s useless buying a lottery ticket; still , someone’s got to win, haven’t they?’ A synonym for still in this sense (and for nonetheless/nevertheless ) is NOTWITHSTANDING .

AFTER ALL also performs this function, as in Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queene (1590): ‘Yet after all, he victour did suruiue’ means essentially, ‘however, he survived as victor’.

Indeed, a suite of words which also convey this idea of just the same or notwithstanding are REGARDLESS , ANYHOW , ANYWAY , and EVEN SO . Remember to steer clear of ‘irregardless’, a word frowned upon because it makes no sense (the ir- prefix presumably negates the word regardless , so its meaning would be the opposite of ‘regardless’).

THOUGH and ALTHOUGH are two more words which can be used more or less interchangeably with however . For instance, ‘He’s a good singer; however, he’s no Frank Sinatra’ could be rewritten quite easily to read, ‘He’s a good singer, (al)though he’s no Frank Sinatra’.

Using though (or although ) arguably softens the blow of the criticism of the person’s singing in the second half of the sentence, in a way that however does not: however acts as performative throat-clearing before delivering the stinging indictment of the singer’s abilities, whereas though and although keep the emphasis slightly focused towards the start of the sentence, and the good news (‘He’s a good singer …’).

A slightly more archaic synonym for however is HOWBEIT . Whereas albeit has lasted, howbeit , which means roughly BE THAT AS IT MAY , has become largely obsolete and so is best avoided as an archaism or old-fashioned word. Of course, if you’re writing historical fiction, it may be just the term you’re looking for!

Antonyms for ‘however’

If however sees the clause which follows it swerving away from the clause which precedes it (as in the example ‘I looked in the garden; however , the cat wasn’t there’), then good antonyms for however see the two clauses agreeing with each other: the latter one follows naturally and smoothly from the former.

With this in mind, we might identify THEREFORE , THUS , and SO as antonyms for however .

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Another Word for However | 100+ Synonyms for However in English

“However” is a transitional word used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. In this article, we provide over 100 however synonyms for “however,” ranging from formal to informal to creative.

Using synonyms can add variety and clarity to your writing or speech, and it’s important to consider the context and tone of your message when selecting the most appropriate alternative .

However Synonyms

Commonly used synonyms for “however”, formal synonyms for “however”, informal synonyms for “however”, creative synonyms for “however”, rarely used synonyms for “however”, 100+ different words to use instead of “however”.

  • However Synonyms ‘Infographic’

Using synonyms in writing is a great way to avoid repetition and make your writing more interesting. One word that is commonly used in writing is “however.” While it is an important word that helps to indicate contrast, using it repeatedly can make your writing feel stale.

This article will provide 100+ synonyms for “however” in English that you can use to make your writing more varied and interesting.

The following are some of the commonly used synonyms for “however”:

SynonymDefinition
ButUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
YetUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
AlthoughUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
NeverthelessUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
StillUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
NonethelessUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
RegardlessUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
Despite thisUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
In spite of thisUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
On the other handUsed to introduce a contrasting statement.
  • He studied hard for the exam; however , he still failed.
  • He promised to be on time; nevertheless , he arrived late.
  • She is a great speaker; nonetheless , her presentation lacked enthusiasm.
  • I know it’s risky; regardless , I think we should proceed.
  • The weather is bad; despite this , we decided to go camping.

The following are some of the formal synonyms for “however”:

SynonymDefinition
NotwithstandingUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
ConverselyUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
In contrastUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
By contrastUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
In any eventUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts
  • Notwithstanding the challenges, the project was completed on time.
  • The CEO was optimistic about the future; conversely , the shareholders were concerned.
  • The new product was a success; in contrast , the old product was not well received.
  • The team was well-prepared; by contrast , their opponents were not.
  • In any event , we need to be prepared for any scenario.

The following are some of the informal synonyms for “however”:

SynonymDefinition
AnywaysUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
AnywayUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
RegardlessUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
Be that as it mayUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
Even soUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
That being saidUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
Still and allUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
That saidUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
  • I know we’re behind schedule; anyways , we can still catch up.
  • He’s not the most reliable employee; anyway , we need to give him a chance.
  • The conditions were difficult; regardless , we completed the task.
  • Be that as it may , we need to find a solution to this problem.
  • The proposal has some flaws; even so, it’s worth considering.
  • That being said , we need to be careful not to overspend.
  • Still and all , we managed to finish the project on time.
  • That said , we need to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

The following are some of the creative synonyms for “however”:

SynonymDefinition
On the flip sideUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
On the contraryUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
That saidUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
In any caseUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
Then againUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
Having said thatUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
Even thoughUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
Despite the fact thatUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
  • The job is well-paid; on the flip side , it requires a lot of overtime.
  • He claimed to be an expert; on the contrary , he had no experience in the field.
  • That said , we need to consider other options before making a decision.
  • In any case , we need to address the issue as soon as possible.
  • The project is challenging; then again , it’s also rewarding.
  • Having said that , we need to be aware of the potential risks.
  • Even though we have a tight deadline, we can still deliver high-quality work.
  • Despite the fact that the market is competitive, we can still succeed.

The following are some of the rarely used synonyms for “however”:

SynonymDefinition
NonethelessUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
HowbeitUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
NotwithstandingUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said.
AlbeitUsed to
  • The weather was bad; nonetheless , we went ahead with the outdoor event.
  • The product is expensive; howbeit , it’s worth the investment.
  • Notwithstanding the challenges, we managed to complete the project on time.
  • Albeit the results were disappointing, we learned a lot from the experience.
No.SynonymDefinition
1AlthoughUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
2NeverthelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
3NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
4YetUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
5StillUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
6DespiteUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
7In spite ofUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
8On the other handUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
9AlternativelyUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice.
10In contrastUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
11ConverselyUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
12MeanwhileUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea that is happening at the same time.
13WhereasUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
14NeverthelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
15On the contraryUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective.
16NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
17Even soUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
18Be that as it mayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea.
19AnyhowUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
20AnywayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
21RegardlessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
22That saidUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
23Even thoughUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
24Despite the fact thatUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
25On the flip sideUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
26In any caseUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
27Then againUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
28Having said thatUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
29NathelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (rare)
30HowbeitUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (rare)
31NotwithstandingUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (rare)
32AlbeitUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (rare)
No.SynonymDefinition
33AlthoughUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
34NeverthelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
35NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
36YetUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
37StillUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
38DespiteUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
39In spite ofUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
40WhereasUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
41By contrastUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
42AlternativelyUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (formal)
43ConverselyUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
44In any eventUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
45In spite of the factUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
46In the face ofUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
47NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
48On the contraryUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
49RegardlesssUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
50All the sameUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
51Even thoughUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
52HoweverUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
53At any rateUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
54Be that as it mayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
55Even soUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
56AnyhowUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
57AnywayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
58NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
59RegardlessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
60That saidUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
61Then againUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
62Despite the fact thatUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
No.SynonymDefinition
63On the other handUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
64OtherwiseUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (creative)
65That being saidUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
66In contrastUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
67At the same timeUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
68NotwithstandingUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
69Despite thisUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
70ThenUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
71And yetUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
72NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
73ContrarilyUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
74In either caseUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (creative)
75In contrast toUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (creative)
76In the endUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
77At the end of the dayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (creative)
78In factUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
79ActuallyUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
80But thenUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
81In realityUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
82NeverthelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
83On the flip sideUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
84As much asUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
85On the other sideUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
86To the contraryUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
87ConverselyUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
88Despite everythingUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
89Not the lessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (informal)
90Mind youUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (informal)
91Either wayUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (informal)
92OtherwiseUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (informal)
No.SynonymDefinition
93All the whileUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea that has been happening continuously. (informal)
94Be that as it mayUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea, even though there might be some obstacles. (formal)
95Even soUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
96That saidUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
97By contrastUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
98NonethelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
99NeverthelessUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
100In any eventUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
101AlternativelyUsed to introduce a contrasting option or choice. (formal)
102By the same tokenUsed to introduce a contrasting point of view or perspective. (formal)
103That being the caseUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
104In the final analysisUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
105Even thoughUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
106In spite ofUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
107GrantedUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
108For all thatUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
109In essenceUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)
110In any caseUsed to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. (formal)

However Synonyms ‘ Infographic’

however synonym

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  • 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

words to use in an essay instead of however

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument. Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

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90+ Synonyms for “However” with Examples | Another Word for “However”

In this article, we will explore the different synonyms of “however” in English and how they can be used effectively in writing. By expanding your vocabulary and learning how to use synonyms, you can make your writing more interesting and engaging. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways you can express a contrasting idea without using the word “however”.

However Synonyms

Another Word for However | 90+ Synonyms for "However" in English

However Meaning

‘However’ is a conjunction that is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict what has been said previously. It can also be used as an adverb to mean ‘nevertheless’ or ‘in spite of that’.

  • She studied hard for the exam;  however , she didn’t perform as well as she had hoped.
  • I enjoy swimming;  however , I’m not a fan of cold water.
  • He loves Italian food;  however , he decided to try the new Mexican restaurant.
  • I usually take the bus to work;  however , today I decided to walk.

List of Synonyms for However

  • Accordingly
  • Against this background
  • All that being said
  • All the same
  • At all events
  • At any event
  • At any rate
  • At the same time
  • Be that as it may
  • But all the same
  • By contrast
  • Despite everything
  • Despite that
  • Despite the fact that
  • Despite this
  • Fact remains
  • For all that
  • From everywhere
  • Having said that
  • However does
  • However that may be
  • In addition
  • In any case
  • In any event
  • In contrast
  • In every way
  • In spite of
  • In spite of everything
  • In spite of this
  • In the mean time
  • In the meantime
  • In view of this
  • In whatever way
  • Just the same
  • Nevertheless
  • Nonetheless
  • Notwithstanding
  • On another note
  • On that premise
  • On the flip side
  • On the other hand
  • Regardless whether
  • Regrettably
  • Still and all
  • That being said
  • This being said
  • This being the case
  • Unfortunately
  • Was nonetheless
  • Whatever the case
  • Whatever the case may be

Types of Synonyms for However

  • On the contrary

Common Synonyms for However

However vs. but.

“However” and “but” are both used to introduce contrasting or contradictory information in a sentence.

“However” is more formal and is often used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. It is typically used to transition between two related sentences or to provide a counterpoint to a previous statement.  “But” is more commonly used in everyday speech and writing to introduce a contrasting clause or phrase. It is used to indicate a contrast between two ideas or actions.

  • She was feeling unwell; however, she decided to go to work anyway.
  •  I was going to go to the store, but it started raining.

However vs. Nevertheless

“However” is often used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea. It is used to show a contradiction or unexpected result in relation to the previous statement.

“Nevertheless” is used to indicate that a contrasting or opposing point is being made, but it emphasizes that the preceding point is still true despite the contradiction. It is often used to express a concession or to introduce a contrasting viewpoint.

  • He had studied hard for the exam; however, he didn’t perform as well as he had hoped.
  • The weather was cold; nevertheless, they decided to go for a hike.

However vs. Yet

“However” is used to introduce a contrasting statement or idea, often to show a contradiction or unexpected result in relation to the previous statement.

“Yet” is used to introduce a contrasting idea or action that is in contrast to what is expected based on the preceding statement.

  • She loves to travel; however, she is afraid of flying.
  • She was feeling unwell, yet she managed to complete her presentation.

The Purpose of Using Synonyms for ‘However’

In formal writing, particularly in academic contexts, variety in language is key for maintaining readers’ interest and ensuring clarity. As authors, we aim to present our ideas and arguments without repetitive phrasing that may dull the impact of our words. “However” is a conjunction often employed to introduce a contrasting point; yet, if we overuse it, our prose may appear monotonous.

Using synonyms for “however” allows us to craft sentences that are both engaging and precise. Consider the following synonyms:

  • Nevertheless/Nonetheless : These words signal a contradiction to the preceding statement with a similar level of formality.
  • Conversely : This word is appropriate when presenting an alternative perspective or outcome.
  • On the other hand : A useful phrase for juxtaposing two different points or perspectives.
  • Despite this/In spite of this : These phrases offer a softer transition but imply a strong contrast.
  • Even so/Still/Yet : These alternatives serve a similar purpose but may offer slight variations in emphasis.

By diversifying our transitional phrases, we ensure that our writing remains vibrant and reader-friendly. We achieve textual variety, which can enhance the reader’s comprehension and retention of our argument. Furthermore, the careful selection of synonyms can add subtle nuances to our contrasts, thus enriching our scholarly discourse.

Synonyms for However in Different Contexts

Informal conversation.

  • Nevertheless:  You seemed quite confident about the project,  nevertheless , unexpected challenges may arise.
  • Nonetheless:  The weather was chilly,  nonetheless , they decided to have the picnic.
  • But:  I’d love to join the game,  but  I have to finish my work.
  • Yet:  The task is difficult,  yet  it’s not impossible to complete.
  • Still:  That’s a good point,  still , there are other factors to consider.
  • Though:  I understand your concerns,  though  I believe the plan is solid.
  • Albeit:  He accepted the offer,  albeit  with some hesitation.

Formal Writing Alternatives

Scientific discourse.

  • Nevertheless : The experiment was not conclusive; nevertheless , the data suggests a trend towards…
  • Nonetheless : The method has limitations;  nonetheless , it has been effective in numerous studies.
  • Conversely : The initial hypothesis was supported by the data;  conversely , subsequent experiments have not replicated these results.

Business Contexts

  • On the other hand : The team exceeded its sales targets;  on the other hand , customer satisfaction scores declined.
  • Despite this : Profits have been consistent;  despite this , investment in research and development is essential.

Absolute and Near Synonyms for However

Absolute synonyms for however.

Synonym Meaning
Nevertheless Despite what has just been said or done
Nonetheless Despite what has just been said or done; nevertheless

Near Synonyms for However

Word Meaning
But Used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned.
Yet Despite something that has been mentioned before.
Still Despite what has been said or done before.
Although Despite the fact that; even though.
Even though Despite the fact that.
Despite Without being affected by; in spite of.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are alternative words to use in place of ‘however’ in professional correspondence?

In professional correspondence, it is important to use appropriate language that conveys your message clearly and effectively. Some alternative words to use in place of ‘however’ in professional correspondence include ‘nevertheless’, ‘nonetheless’, ‘yet’, ‘although’, ‘in spite of that’, and ‘still’. These words can be used to transition between ideas and to indicate a contrast.

Can you list synonyms for ‘however’ that are suitable for use in formal writing?

Yes, there are several synonyms for ‘however’ that are suitable for use in formal writing. Some of these include ‘nevertheless’, ‘nonetheless’, ‘yet’, ‘although’, ‘in spite of that’, ‘still’, ‘notwithstanding’, ‘regardless’, ‘albeit’, and ‘despite this’. It is important to choose the appropriate word based on the context and the tone of the writing.

What are some equivalents to ‘however’ that can be used in oral presentations?

In oral presentations, it is important to use language that is clear and concise. Some equivalents to ‘however’ that can be used in oral presentations include ‘on the other hand’, ‘in contrast’, ‘despite this’, ‘nevertheless’, ‘nonetheless’, and ‘yet’. These words can be used to transition between ideas and to indicate a contrast.

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Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

Published by My Lingua Academy on 7 Sep 2022 7 Sep 2022

Hi English learners! Are you writing an essay or an email? Are you fed up with the same old words and phrases? In this lesson, we will look at 10 words and phrases to use instead of “however” with lots of example sentences so you can learn how to use them in context.

Here is the list:

Nevertheless

Despite/in spite of, be it as it may, having said that.

“However” can be used as an adverb showing a relation between the two sentences.

  • Sara has always been a good student. Last month, however, she got some bad grades.

It can also be used as an adverb before an adjective or another adverb:

  • Robert couldn’t win the game however hard he tried .

We normally use “however” as conjunction joining two clauses.

  • You can make this cake however you want – with or without eggs.

Let’s look at some alternatives to “however”:

Just like “however”, we use “nevertheless” to show contrast. It has a similar meaning to “despite that”.

  • Tom was tired and sleepy; nevertheless , he kept on walking.
  • Though enormously rich, he was nevertheless a thrifty, penny-pinching person.
  • Mary never wanted to be a housewife but she nevertheless got married and ended up as one.

Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

We use the phrase “even so” for emphasis. For example. when you want to say that something is surprising news in spite of what you have said previously.

  • Sandra ate too much already but even so , she helped herself with a cake.
  • The temperature rose later in the day but even so , we were still feeling cold.
  • Brian’s room was very untidy; even so , he didn’t mind sitting and reading at his desk.

We use “still” to emphasize that something exists despite something said or done in the sentence.

  • Robert still enjoyed his day off despite the bad weather.
  • Albert was looking for his telephone all around the place but still couldn’t find it.
  • Although his leg hurt he was still able to drive.

“Yet” is a conjunction we normally use to make a contrast between two clauses or sentences.

  • There was no particular reason for Fiona to be in a bad mood, yet she felt pretty sad.
  • It was cold yet sunny.
  • The joke he told us seemed a bit strange yet very funny.

This is another conjunction we use to express contrast. It is used to say that something is happening differently from what is usual or sensible.

  • Although he’s been working there for a long time, he wanted to change jobs.
  • Roberta was sitting on the balcony and smoking although the doctor told her not to.
  • Although he spent a few months in prison for robbery, he decided to be an honest man.

Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

An adverb “otherwise” means different, in another way than supposed.

  • Sylvia thought that the book was a bit long but otherwise she enjoyed reading it.
  • Michael’s parents paid for his university. Otherwise , he couldn’t have afforded it.
  • Mind your steps on the floor, otherwise , you will fall.

“Despite” and “in spite of” mean that something is happening though something else may stop or prevent it from happening.

  • They were walking in the park despite the rain.
  • In spite of his mother’s disagreement, he decided to move abroad.
  • In spite of the fact that he was over eighty, he was still healthy and in good shape.

The phrase “after all” means in spite of what was said previously.

  • Sandra never wanted to live in the country but when her son got married and bought a house in the village she had to visit him every now and then after all.
  • Mary is not supposed to work. She’s over seventy, after all.
  • Peter was never worried about money. After all , he knew he would inherit a lot of money from his parents when they die.

We use the phrase “be it as it may” when we want to change the subject or continue talking about something else, regardless of whether we finished the previous discussion or not.

  • We were good friends back in school days. Be it as it may , I’ll never see him again, I suppose.
  • Be it as it may , we don’t expect people affected by the earthquake to deal with the consequences by themselves.

We use the phrase “having said that” to indicate that something is true despite what you said before that.

  • This restaurant is quite expensive; having said that , the food is great.
  • You will lose weight if you stick to this diet; having said that, try to bring more variety into your diet, as well.
  • Brian’s motorbike was in perfect condition, but having said that , it needed a new seat.

Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

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Alternatives to leading a sentence with the conjunctive adverb "However"

The word "however" is used to lead off a sentence that counters a previous thought. Are there any alternative words or phrases that can substitute? I'm even looking for old English and obsolete words and phrases. I'm trying to add some creativity to my writing.

I'll start by including words that are nearly as tired:

  • Nevertheless
  • Moreover (not exactly the same thing as "However" and "Nevertheless", but can in limited cases be used)

Anyone have anything better?

  • discourse-markers

Mari-Lou A's user avatar

  • As a substitute of "moreover", I also use "furthermore" or "in addition". –  Alain Pannetier Φ Commented Apr 9, 2011 at 6:55

4 Answers 4

You could replace however with but , still , yet , though , although , even so , for all that , despite that , in spite of that , anyway , anyhow , be that as it may , all the same , having said that , and (informal) still and all .

avpaderno's user avatar

  • "Be that as it may" is very good. –  Wesley Commented Apr 9, 2011 at 18:48
  • I like to use "But,...". Err...*however*, I hear a lot that you shouldn't start sentences with it. –  T.E.D. Commented Jun 14, 2011 at 17:52

A variant of "nevertheless" is "nonetheless". You'll also find expressions such as "in contrast", "on the other hand", "despite that" which mean essentially the same thing. In legal contracts, you'll sometimes find slightly more long-winded expressions such as "notwithstanding the above", "notwithstanding the foregoing".

Neil Coffey's user avatar

  • Ohhh! Love the legalize! –  Wesley Commented Apr 9, 2011 at 18:47

On the other hand

Notwithstanding

Andrew Lambert's user avatar

However (see what I did there?) these alternatives do not express exactly the same thing. Rather than pedantic proscriptive grammar, isn't it better to use the words we need, as they are widely understood, to express our thoughts as clearly as possible.

Bob's user avatar

  • 1 The OP isn't asking due to 'pedantic proscriptive grammar' rules, he's asking because he feels that "However" is used too often and would like alternatives (of which you provide none). –  Doc Commented Feb 6, 2014 at 15:17

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged vocabulary discourse-markers or ask your own question .

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words to use in an essay instead of however

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How can I avoid overuse of words like "however" and "therefore" in academic writing?

I am in the field of computer science (more specifically robotics), and as I am writing, I must actively avoid using the words "however", "therefore", etc... every few sentences. This is especially an issue in proofs, as I feel like every other sentence follows from the previous.

For example, I am tempted to write something like the following:

This constraint is satisfied because... However, if blah blah..., then blah blah. Therefore, something something. However,.... (and I can go on forever).
Often, I can just delete some of the "however" or replace "therefore" with words like "consequently". I can also sometimes change the wording to use "then", "so", or "but". However (see I can't even help myself), I feel compelled to use words like "however" to help with flow.

How can I avoid using words like "however" so many times? Is this bad writing? Is this normal?

  • publications
  • computer-science
  • research-proposal

Peter Mortensen's user avatar

  • 1 FWIW, I struggled with this in my master's thesis. Especially with 'nested' howevers (in parentheses). I found the trick of letting it rest a day or two then proofing it afresh helped, but sometimes I was just pushing the issue to the next sentence. Some topics just are complex 🤷🏻‍♂️. –  Lamar Latrell Commented Dec 3, 2020 at 23:13
  • Not sure whether this is too obvious, but in terms of style and writing proofs, I sometimes look into papers of others (more experienced) authors. So, you can look how they avoid (or use) these words and try to get inspired. –  StefanH Commented May 29 at 13:24

11 Answers 11

Let me suggest an alternate view. This is in regard to writing proofs and other very technical things. You want, above all, for your intent to be clear. It may be that "however" and "therefore" are the best available words and that they clearly express the flow of the argument.

After all, if you were writing the proof purely symbolically you would "overuse" certain logic symbols in order to be exact.

And, don't let "fancy words" get in the way of your readers deep dive into the ideas themselves. Sometimes the most obvious word is the one that is most quickly understood to express your intent. This might be especially important for those who know your subject, but are not native speakers of your language.

OTOH, I haven't actually seen your prose. If an editor or reviewer objects, then you can change it to suit, of course.

Buffy's user avatar

  • 29 Are the first words of each of your paragraphs meant to be examples? –  GoodDeeds Commented Dec 1, 2020 at 22:08
  • 22 @Buffy However, we could assume they were. Therefore, your answer is a good example. –  Pierre Arlaud Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 10:47
  • 6 @PierreArlaud "We could assume they were, and your answer is a good example" works just as well. Use these linking words if you need them, but they can often be removed entirely. –  Jack Aidley Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 11:07
  • 9 Agreed. When reading articles, I am often confused by the author using different words for the same things. I get like "Wait, did I miss something, isn't he talking about the same as before?". If you feel the need to use the same word a hundred times in a row, please do exactly that and not switch around for fancyness. –  MaxD Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 13:32
  • 10 Great answer (+1), however using "OTOH" is a perfect example of a fancy expression that might confuse the reader. I am not a native speaker and don't know what it means. –  Vincent Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 17:28

It sounds to me like you're actually doing everything that you need to do already.

In fact, when you are initially writing a paper, I would suggest that you not worry about it at all . Write things as they come out most quickly and naturally, focusing only on conveying the substance of your argumentation.

Only at the very end, when you are polishing before submission, is it worth worrying about the wording. At that point, you can read the paper out loud to yourself and see if you start feeling repetitions or stumbling over sentence structure. Reading out loud is valuable because it slows you down and forces you to really hear what you have written. If your words feel uncomfortable when you read them out loud, then fix them just like you are doing already: deleting when you can, and substituting synonyms when you can't.

jakebeal's user avatar

  • 1 +1 for reading out loud! It's an incredibly effective trick for easily spotting things that can be surprisingly tricky to spot when just reading. –  Carl-Fredrik Nyberg Brodda Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 15:26
  • (The exclamation mark is made to be read out loud, too) –  Carl-Fredrik Nyberg Brodda Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 15:26
  • 13 ARGH! Don't substitute synonyms just to avoid repetition. If I had a nickel for every time I had to puzzle over whether an "iteration" was the same as a "step" because the author felt they were overusing one of the words, I'd never have to work again. –  Nobody Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 16:38
  • 4 @Nobody Terms of art should not of course be varied, but connector prose like "however" and "therefore" most certainly can be. –  jakebeal Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 17:48
  • 1 @Michael My observation is that it's very easy for people, especially inexperienced writers, to get stuck on wording and fail to produce the core content. –  jakebeal Commented Dec 3, 2020 at 15:07

Aggressive Pruning

I agree with other answers that your repetition of however and therefore might not be a problem in this context. However, I would like to point out another option. These words are usually included as signposts for the reader, but do not change the meaning of the text. Therefore, I suggest omitting them. For example,

I agree with other answers that your repetition of however and therefore might not be a problem in this context. I would like to point out another option. These words are usually included as signposts for the reader, but do not change the meaning of the text. I suggest omitting them.

Just try removing the offending words in each sentence where you feel it might be getting repetitive. In most cases, you'll find you can remove "therefore" or "however" without impacting the argument. If the transition of ideas is jarring, leave the words in.

You mention that you remove instances like this already, but you may not be aggressive enough. In your question, you state

To me, the "however" in the last sentence is optional. You add it to emphasize contradiction with the previous statement. You could replace with

Unfortunately , I still feel compelled to use words like "however" to help with flow.

I would suggest an exercise where you remove all "however"s and "therefore"s and then wait an hour or so . After the wait, re-read your text and re-add the words where necessary. The time gap will give you time to forget where the words originally appeared and allow you to read with a fresh perspective. This should help with more aggressive pruning.

As regards to synonyms, sometimes rephrasing the sentence works better than rarely used synonyms like "ergo". For example,

I agree with other answers that your repetition of however and therefore might not be a problem in this context. I would like to point out another alternative . These words are usually included as signposts for the reader, but do not change the meaning of the text. When this is the case , I suggest omitting them.

Rephrasing can also emphasize contradiction and support in the same way that "however" and "therefore" do. For rephrasing, the same exercise as above can help, but I also find proof-readers invaluable. They often find ways of stating the same thing more succinctly and elegantly because they have a fresh approach to the text.

2cents's user avatar

  • I'd heartily agree with the idea of trying out dropping these "connectors" entirely. The prose itself has a direction. Unless you start a new paragraph, most readers would (reasonably) assume that the next sentence follows in some way from the previous... –  paul garrett Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 16:28
  • The example in the first paragraph is really cool (+1), but note that both of your examples from OP's question are actually about replacing rather than pruning. Sometimes there is no way of pruning without compromising on clarity. –  lighthouse keeper Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 16:31
I must actively avoid using the words "however", "therefore", etc... every few sentences

Says who? There is nothing wrong in repeating the same linking word every few sentences , in my view. Don't let the language majors guilt-trip you into thinking otherwise. That rule is way overrated.

If you are writing about matrices, you wouldn't look for synonyms to avoid repeating the word "matrix", would you? Just use the clearest and most appropriate words, and raise your threshold for how much repetition is 'unacceptable'. Unless every third word in your text is "however", I wouldn't worry.

Federico Poloni's user avatar

  • 1 To be fair, using the same (non-technical) word in every other sentence (barring obvious exceptions like "and", "so", "or"...) can make a paper unpleasant to read. Knowing a few synonyms (or using a thesaurus during later editing passes) is not a bad idea. –  tomasz Commented Dec 3, 2020 at 19:17

Consider the argument structure in the paper.

I find that I have the however/therefore problem when I'm writing in flow-of-consciousness narrative voice, rather than making an effort to structure my arguments.

So I write something like:

Premise P1 Therefore, Conclusion C1 However, Counterargument to C1 Premise P2 Therefore, Conclusion C2a Therefore, Conclusion C2b However, Counterargument to C2a Therefore, Counterargument to C2b

Given this experience, here are some structural things I try to consider.

1) Give back-references.

Would "Therefore"/"However" be better replaced with a simplifying restatement of the point that the arguments are building upon or tearing down?

Premise P1 Given P1, Conclusion C1 Despite P1, Counterargument to C1 Premise P2 Given P2, Conclusion C2a Given C2a, Conclusion C2b Despite P2, Counterargument to C2a Given C/C2a, Counterargument to C2b

2) Consider the flow of points.

Looking at the sequence of premises and arguments you have in the paper, is it the clearest way to communicate your point? Would it be better split into separate sections? Perhaps "premises/assumptions", "conclusions/inferences/extrapolations", and "counterarguments" sections?

Premises Premise P1 Premise P2 Inferences Given P1, Conclusion C1 Given P2, Conclusion C2a Given C2a, Conclusion C2b Counterarguments Despite P1, Counterargument to C1 Despite P2, Counterargument to C2a Given C/C2a, Counterargument to C2b

3) Maintain a consistent direction or thrust.

Heavy use of "however" may indicate that you're regularly flipflopping between each side of an argument, rather than presenting one side in full, then presenting the other in full.

4) Reserve them for building up or tearing down a point.

If you're using "therefore" in a way that doesn't build upon prior information to form a further conclusion, or "however" in a way that doesn't present a counterpoint, then examine why you're using it.

Compare this, which neither builds on, not provides a counterpoint, but appears to do both:

We gathered the data. However, this was not easy, as we were in the field. Therefore, we only took a few readings.

to this, which avoids that appearance:

We gathered only limited data, due to fieldwork limitations.

5) Don't thesaurize.

Contrary to other advice, I wouldn't advise trying to conceal this issue by changing the words to synonymous terms.

You can't build a good wood-framed house without knowing exactly what the solid foundational posts are, the exact position of all the beams from foundations to lintel, and exactly how the joints tie each one to another.

You can't write a good paper without knowing exactly what the solid foundational premises are, the exact position of all your conclusions from premises to final, and exactly how the arguments tie each one to another.

That means knowing when you really mean to use "therefore", rather than spackling over all your joints to hide them behind weak weasel-word phrases like "and", "so", "then", "but", "yet", "though".

Like a good joiner makes the joints a visible feature of their work, make those words a feature of your writing, calling out its structure.

6) OK, maybe sometimes thesaurize, but deliberately.

This is an edge case, but perhaps worth mentioning.

Sometimes, we use different bullets at different levels, to avoid confusion:

In a similar way, it can be useful to thesaurize in order to separate subarguments from the main argument flow. Be careful, it can end up a mess, but it's worth trying:

Premise P1 Therefore , from P1, Conclusion C1 Note as an aside that tangential premise Pt1 And so tangential conclusion Ct1 But tangential counterpoint to Ct1 Therefore , from C1, Conclusion C2 However , Counterargument to C2

It's almost always better to slice the tangent off into another section, an infobox, or even leave it out completely, though.

Dewi Morgan's user avatar

Both are perfectly normal in academic writing. You can mix things up by using:

  • nevertheless
  • nonetheless
  • X notwithstanding
  • This is not always/seldom/never the case for...
  • ..., yet, ...
  • Accordingly
  • For this/that reason

Nikos Kazazakis's user avatar

  • 1 Also see phrasebank.manchester.ac.uk for more options to express this and other common ideas in academic writing. –  user3780968 Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 2:20
  • 7 To be honest if I saw 'Ergo' in a text I would think the author is trying way too hard to sound fancy. –  AccidentalTaylorExpansion Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 13:39
  • 4 @AccidentalTaylorExpansion Cogito for this/that reason sum. –  Carl-Fredrik Nyberg Brodda Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 15:27
  • @AccidentalTaylorExpansion: Or had watched The Matrix Reloaded too often. –  J W Commented Dec 4, 2020 at 10:24

Very often, you use a "however" because you're describing some developing process of thought. Thoughts change or turn to something else, and this reflects on earlier assertions. But a written document is not a speech - your text does not have to be chronological relative to your thought processes (certainly not relative to your original thought processes). You can also use structure and visual appearance in your writing, which an oral presentation can't have.

Let's take your example:

This constraint is satisfied because... However, if blah blah..., then blah blah.

You could make it:

Let us now consider the whatever constraint: blah1 : The constraint is satisfied because ... blah2 : blah blah

This is usually a good idea. But, as other answers point out, sometimes the "however" makes perfect sense and the narrative sounds reasonable/engaging/exciting with it in place.

einpoklum's user avatar

  • I like this a lot. The "looping" linear line of thought needs not be reproduced in the text which can be better structured (although I don't quite understand your example here). –  Peter - Reinstate Monica Commented Dec 3, 2020 at 6:45

EDIT: My answer here does not directly address your problem, but I see it is useful to look for synonyms sometimes, at least we avoid to use same words repeatedly.

I would suggest to consider this website to find synonyms ( www.thesaurus.com ). For example, I have looked for synonyms of "therefore".

enter image description here

As you can see in the results, there are a number of synonyms, sorted by relevance. You can check the meaning of each word by clicking on it. You can also see examples showing how the words are used in sentences.

TrungDung's user avatar

  • 2 Using a thesaurus for academic writing is a very bad idea. If the author is not sufficiently familiar with alternative word choices to pick them on their own, it is likely that the reader is not overly familiar with them either. Academic English is supposed to be very simple. –  Arno Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 10:27
  • I mean the writer should not choose like a machine. Other dictionaries (e.g., OALD) are essential to check the meaning of the word before using in a particular context. –  TrungDung Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 10:36
  • 2 @Arno: It often happens to me that I have to look up "simple words" and then remember, hey, there is this simple world I am familiar with. Definitely words I would understand when I reas them. –  user111388 Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 11:12
  • 7 @Arno "Using a thesaurus for academic writing is a very bad idea" I don't think so. –  KratosMath Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 13:29
  • 3 Blindly using a thesaurus for academic writing is a very bad idea, but it's not because academic writing should be simple. It's because synonyms have similar meanings, but not exactly the same meaning, and academic writing should be precise. You shouldn't use a synonym to avoid repetition; you should use a synonym iff it more precisely matches the meaning you want. –  Ray Commented Dec 2, 2020 at 16:14

This is an answer that could be applied to almost any question about writing style, and may get dinged for that, but I'm going to add it anyway: Look for examples to follow. When you read papers, take note of ones that are a pleasure to read, and then read them again to see how they do it. People have given some good answers with examples, and I think they are helpful, but they are made-up examples. It's really valuable to see how actual problems of exposition have been solved in ways that are clear and satisfying to you. Maybe they turn out to use "however" rather frequently, and maybe they don't. You will learn from what you see.

Mark Foskey's user avatar

  • In writing as with all performances: That which looks easiest is in fact the most accomplished. –  Peter - Reinstate Monica Commented Dec 3, 2020 at 6:47

In other answers, people have suggested using synonyms, rephrasing, or omitting the conjunctions. I would like to add some extra insight on this.

I believe that “ however ” and “ therefore ” should be treated differently.

“ However ” serves the important purpose of preparing the reader for a contradiction or a problem that will arise following the conjunction. Therefore, it is hard to omit. The solution for avoiding the overuse of “ however ” is to use synonyms or to rephrase the sentence.

As for “ therefore ”, it shows that the next phrase or sentence follows from the previous one, and it can often be omitted. Of course, the other options are also possible.

I will illustrate with a random example I came up with:

The constraint is satisfied because the Σ -value is 1.5 . However , we need to be careful since the standard deviation was quite high. Therefore , the experiment needs to be repeated for improved reliability. I recommend repeating the experiment while changing the value of Ψ to 3 so that the results will be compatible. However , setting Ψ to 3 might affect the consistency of the results due to Ω being 5 . Therefore , I also recommend changing Ω to 4 . This solves the consistency problem, however , precautions should be taken since this value for Ω is quite low.

Now, I will rewrite this text without using “ however ” and “ therefore ” at all. You don’t need to go this far in reality.

The constraint is satisfied because the Σ -value is 1.5 . Although this is within the acceptable range, we need to be careful since the standard deviation was quite high. For this reason, the experiment needs to be repeated for improved reliability. I recommend repeating the experiment while changing the value of Ψ to 3 so that the results will be compatible. This introduces a new problem, where setting Ψ to 3 might affect the consistency of the results due to Ω being 5 . Since this may undermine the experiment, I also recommend changing Ω to 4 . This solves the consistency problem, but precautions should be taken since this value for Ω is quite low.

hb20007's user avatar

An option is to use grammar checking tools. Most LaTeX editors do not include this, but you could, for example, copy & paste a paragraph into a word processor and see what synonyms it suggests. I also have good experience with Grammarly, but it isn't cheap and may not be worth it. But it both tries to tell you when your text is repetitive, and you can click words to see synonyms. Just really make sure that you do not blindly accept and suggestions, as it sometimes wants to replace technical terms with something that's no synonym in that context. On the other hand, it works well with LaTeX, which is a big plus. In the end, I think some online thesaurus and word processor features are suitable for native speakers. Non-native speakers may consider using a more costly tool, especially when your reviewers notice that you're not a native speaker.

allo's user avatar

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words to use in an essay instead of however

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HOWEVER Synonym: 23 Useful Words to Use Instead of HOWEVER

Posted on Last updated: October 24, 2023

HOWEVER Synonym: 23 Useful Words to Use Instead of HOWEVER

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HOWEVER Synonym! Learning synonyms in English is one of the best ways to bolster your vocabulary. In this lesson, you will learn a list of synonyms for HOWEVER with picture and example sentences.

Table of Contents

HOWEVER Synonym List

  • Nonetheless
  • Notwithstanding
  • All the same
  • Be that as it may
  • For all that
  • In spite of
  • On the other hand
  • Without regard to
  • At any rate
  • In any case
  • Just the same
  • Nevertheless

HOWEVER Synonyms with Examples

Learn synonyms or other words for HOWEVER with example sentences.

Though he’s a fool, I like him  nonetheless .

He still went home,  notwithstanding  the midnight.

Withal , I always hold an optimistic attitude.

He still yearned after her, even  after all  these years.

I don’t need the literature at present. Thank you very much  all the same .

Anyhow , I must insist that you cannot steal.

I know you don’t like him but  be that as it may , you can at least be polite to him.

The law cannot make all men equal,  but  they are all equal before the law.

She looked lovely,  despite  her strange apparel.

For all that  he was an attractive little creature with a sweetly expressive face.

In spite of  their quarrel, they remain the best of friends.

I want to go to the party, but  on the other hand , I ought to be studying.

The female is generally drab, the male  per contra  brilliant.

Though  you cast out nature with a fork, it will still return.

The 2008 bonus plan was also designed to kick in  without regard to  paper losses.

I shall go and see the patient  anyway .

Well, I’m not going home on foot,  at any rate .

In any case , he is a friend of mine.

Don’t worry about looking handsome, or being strong and brave. Just as you love me unconditionally,I love you  just the same .

Fanned fires and forced love never did well  yet .

Synonym for However | Image

Learn HOWEVER Synonyms (Other Words for HOWEVER)

HOWEVER Synonym

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words to use in an essay instead of however

17 academic words and phrases to use in your essay

(Last updated: 20 October 2022)

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For the vast majority of students, essay writing doesn't always come easily. Writing at academic level is an acquired skill that can literally take years to master – indeed, many students find they only start to feel really confident writing essays just as their undergraduate course comes to an end!

If this is you, and you've come here looking for words and phrases to use in your essay, you're in the right place. We’ve pulled together a list of essential academic words you can use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essays .

Whilst your ideas and arguments should always be your own, borrowing some of the words and phrases listed below is a great way to articulate your ideas more effectively, and ensure that you keep your reader’s attention from start to finish.

It goes without saying (but we'll say it anyway) that there's a certain formality that comes with academic writing. Casual and conversational phrases have no place. Obviously, there are no LOLs, LMFAOs, and OMGs. But formal academic writing can be much more subtle than this, and as we've mentioned above, requires great skill.

So, to get you started on polishing your own essay writing ability, try using the words in this list as an inspirational starting point.

Words to use in your introduction

The trickiest part of academic writing often comes right at the start, with your introduction. Of course, once you’ve done your plan and have your arguments laid out, you need to actually put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and begin your essay.

You need to consider that your reader doesn’t have a clue about your topic or arguments, so your first sentence must summarise these. Explain what your essay is going to talk about as though you were explaining it to a five year old – without losing the formality of your academic writing, of course! To do this, use any of the below words or phrases to help keep you on track.

1. Firstly, secondly, thirdly

Even though it sounds obvious, your argument will be clearer if you deliver the ideas in the right order. These words can help you to offer clarity and structure to the way you expose your ideas. This is an extremely effective method of presenting the facts clearly. Don’t be too rigid and feel you have to number each point, but using this system can be a good way to get an argument off the ground, and link arguments together.

2. In view of; in light of; considering

These essay phrases are useful to begin your essay. They help you pose your argument based on what other authors have said or a general concern about your research. They can also both be used when a piece of evidence sheds new light on an argument. Here’s an example: The result of the American invasion has severely impaired American interests in the Middle East, exponentially increasing popular hostility to the United States throughout the region, a factor which has proved to be a powerful recruitment tool for extremist terrorist groups (Isakhan, 2015). Considering [or In light of / In view of] the perceived resulting threat to American interests, it could be argued that the Bush administration failed to fully consider the impact of their actions before pushing forward with the war.

3. According to X; X stated that; referring to the views of X

Introducing the views of an author who has a comprehensive knowledge of your particular area of study is a crucial part of essay writing. Including a quote that fits naturally into your work can be a bit of a struggle, but these academic phrases provide a great way in.

Even though it’s fine to reference a quote in your introduction, we don’t recommend you start your essay with a direct quote. Use your own words to sum up the views you’re mentioning, for example:

As Einstein often reiterated, experiments can prove theories, but experiments don’t give birth to theories.

Rather than:

“A theory can be proved by experiment, but no path leads from experiment to the birth of a theory.” {Albert Einstein, 1954, Einstein: A Biography}.

See the difference?

And be sure to reference correctly too, when using quotes or paraphrasing someone else's words.

words to use in an essay instead of however

Adding information and flow

The flow of your essay is extremely important. You don’t want your reader to be confused by the rhythm of your writing and get distracted away from your argument, do you? No! So, we recommend using some of the following ‘flow’ words, which are guaranteed to help you articulate your ideas and arguments in a chronological and structured order.

4. Moreover; furthermore; in addition; what’s more

These types of academic phrases are perfect for expanding or adding to a point you’ve already made without interrupting the flow altogether. “Moreover”, “furthermore” and “in addition” are also great linking phrases to begin a new paragraph.

Here are some examples: The dissociation of tau protein from microtubules destabilises the latter resulting in changes to cell structure, and neuronal transport. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction leads to further oxidative stress causing increased levels of nitrous oxide, hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidases.

On the data of this trial, no treatment recommendations should be made. The patients are suspected, but not confirmed, to suffer from pneumonia. Furthermore, five days is too short a follow up time to confirm clinical cure.

5. In order to; to that end; to this end

These are helpful academic phrases to introduce an explanation or state your aim. Oftentimes your essay will have to prove how you intend to achieve your goals. By using these sentences you can easily expand on points that will add clarity to the reader.

For example: My research entailed hours of listening and recording the sound of whales in order to understand how they communicate.

Dutch tech companies offer support in the fight against the virus. To this end, an online meeting took place on Wednesday...

Even though we recommend the use of these phrases, DO NOT use them too often. You may think you sound like a real academic but it can be a sign of overwriting!

6. In other words; to put it another way; that is; to put it more simply

Complement complex ideas with simple descriptions by using these sentences. These are excellent academic phrases to improve the continuity of your essay writing. They should be used to explain a point you’ve already made in a slightly different way. Don’t use them to repeat yourself, but rather to elaborate on a certain point that needs further explanation. Or, to succinctly round up what just came before.

For example: A null hypothesis is a statement that there is no relationship between phenomena. In other words, there is no treatment effect.

Nothing could come to be in this pre-world time, “because no part of such a time possesses, as compared with any other, a distinguishing condition of existence rather than non-existence.” That is, nothing exists in this pre-world time, and so there can be nothing that causes the world to come into existence.

7. Similarly; likewise; another key fact to remember; as well as; an equally significant aspect of

These essay words are a good choice to add a piece of information that agrees with an argument or fact you just mentioned. In academic writing, it is very relevant to include points of view that concur with your opinion. This will help you to situate your research within a research context.

Also , academic words and phrases like the above are also especially useful so as not to repeat the word ‘also’ too many times. (We did that on purpose to prove our point!) Your reader will be put off by the repetitive use of simple conjunctions. The quality of your essay will drastically improve just by using academic phrases and words such as ‘similarly’, ‘as well as’, etc. Here, let us show you what we mean:

In 1996, then-transport minister Steve Norris enthused about quadrupling cycling trips by 2012. Similarly, former prime minister David Cameron promised a “cycling revolution” in 2013…

Or Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI) aims to bridge the gap of access to electricity across the continent (...). Another key fact to remember is that it must expand cost-efficient access to electricity to nearly 1 billion people.

The wording “not only… but also” is a useful way to elaborate on a similarity in your arguments but in a more striking way.

words to use in an essay instead of however

Comparing and contrasting information

Academic essays often include opposite opinions or information in order to prove a point. It is important to show all the aspects that are relevant to your research. Include facts and researchers’ views that disagree with a point of your essay to show your knowledge of your particular field of study. Below are a few words and ways of introducing alternative arguments.

8. Conversely; however; alternatively; on the contrary; on the other hand; whereas

Finding a seamless method to present an alternative perspective or theory can be hard work, but these terms and phrases can help you introduce the other side of the argument. Let's look at some examples:

89% of respondents living in joint families reported feeling financially secure. Conversely, only 64% of those who lived in nuclear families said they felt financially secure.

The first protagonist has a social role to fill in being a father to those around him, whereas the second protagonist relies on the security and knowledge offered to him by Chaplin.

“On the other hand” can also be used to make comparisons when worded together with “on the one hand.”

9. By contrast; in comparison; then again; that said; yet

These essay phrases show contrast, compare facts, and present uncertainty regarding a point in your research. “That said” and “yet” in particular will demonstrate your expertise on a topic by showing the conditions or limitations of your research area. For example:

All the tests were positive. That said, we must also consider the fact that some of them had inconclusive results.

10. Despite this; provided that; nonetheless

Use these phrases and essay words to demonstrate a positive aspect of your subject-matter regardless of lack of evidence, logic, coherence, or criticism. Again, this kind of information adds clarity and expertise to your academic writing.

A good example is:

Despite the criticism received by X, the popularity of X remains undiminished.

11. Importantly; significantly; notably; another key point

Another way to add contrast is by highlighting the relevance of a fact or opinion in the context of your research. These academic words help to introduce a sentence or paragraph that contains a very meaningful point in your essay.

Giving examples

A good piece of academic writing will always include examples. Illustrating your essay with examples will make your arguments stronger. Most of the time, examples are a way to clarify an explanation; they usually offer an image that the reader can recognise. The most common way to introduce an illustration is “for example.” However, in order not to repeat yourself here are a few other options.

12. For instance; to give an illustration of; to exemplify; to demonstrate; as evidence; to elucidate

The academic essays that are receiving top marks are the ones that back up every single point made. These academic phrases are a useful way to introduce an example. If you have a lot of examples, avoid repeating the same phrase to facilitate the readability of your essay.

Here’s an example:

‘High involvement shopping’, an experiential process described by Wu et al. (2015, p. 299) relies upon the development of an identity-based alliance between the customer and the brand. Celebrity status at Prada, for example, has created an alliance between the brand and a new generation of millennial customers.

words to use in an essay instead of however

Concluding your essay

Concluding words for essays are necessary to wrap up your argument. Your conclusion must include a brief summary of the ideas that you just exposed without being redundant. The way these ideas are expressed should lead to the final statement and core point you have arrived at in your present research.

13. In conclusion; to conclude; to summarise; in sum; in the final analysis; on close analysis

These are phrases for essays that will introduce your concluding paragraph. You can use them at the beginning of a sentence. They will show the reader that your essay is coming to an end:

On close analysis and appraisal, we see that the study by Cortis lacks essential features of the highest quality quantitative research.

14. Persuasive; compelling

Essay words like these ones can help you emphasize the most relevant arguments of your paper. Both are used in the same way: “the most persuasive/compelling argument is…”.

15. Therefore; this suggests that; it can be seen that; the consequence is

When you’re explaining the significance of the results of a piece of research, these phrases provide the perfect lead up to your explanation.

16. Above all; chiefly; especially; most significantly; it should be noted

Your summary should include the most relevant information or research factor that guided you to your conclusion. Contrary to words such as “persuasive” or “compelling”, these essay words are helpful to draw attention to an important point. For example:

The feasibility and effectiveness of my research has been proven chiefly in the last round of laboratory tests.

Film noir is, and will continue to be, highly debatable, controversial, and unmarketable – but above all, for audience members past, present and to come, extremely enjoyable as a form of screen media entertainment.

17. All things considered

This essay phrase is meant to articulate how you give reasons to your conclusions. It means that after you considered all the aspects related to your study, you have arrived to the conclusion you are demonstrating.

After mastering the use of these academic words and phrases, we guarantee you will see an immediate change in the quality of your essays. The structure will be easier to follow, and the reader’s experience will improve. You’ll also feel more confident articulating your ideas and using facts and examples. So jot them all down, and watch your essays go from ‘good’ to ‘great’!

words to use in an essay instead of however

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Synonyms of however

  • as in though
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Thesaurus Definition of however

Synonyms & Similar Words

  • nevertheless
  • nonetheless
  • notwithstanding
  • at the same time
  • all the same
  • just the same
  • still and all

Examples of however in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'however.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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Thesaurus Entries Near however

Cite this entry.

“However.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/however. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.

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Other Ways to Say HOWEVER : 42 Powerful Synonyms for However in English

words to use in an essay instead of however

Other Ways to Say However

However synonyms with examples.

Learn another word for however with example sentences.

All the same , there is some truth in what he says.

Although  it was late, there was still enough time to keep the rendezvous .

The boy is so fat  and yet  he runs very fast.

Anyhow , we must find a way out of this impasse.

It’s going to be difficult.  Anyway , we can try.

At any rate , the size of new fields is diminishing.

I can’t really explain it, at the same time I’m not convinced.

I accept that he’s old and frail; be that as it may , he’s still a good politician.

A word is no arrow,  but  it can pierce the heart.

But despite that , Gloucestershire County Council still can’t find another school that will accept him as a full time student.

He has many faults,  but for all that  I like him.

We waited on for another hour,  but still  she didn’t come.

This is better,  but then again  it costs more.

He gives permission, and,  contrariwise , she refuses it.

Despite  the bad weather, we enjoyed ourselves.

Despite  that  you still owe me $100, I am willing to lend you another $100.

He refused to help me,  despite the fact that  I asked him several times.

It was raining, even so  we had to go out.

She hasn’t phoned,  even though  she said she would.

He has many faults, but  for all that  I like him.

He forgets most things, but  having said that , he always remembers my birthday.

Howbeit , we never met again.

In any case , she couldn’t have held a conversation there.

They went on with their basketball match  in spite of  the rain.

In spite of everything , I still believe that people are really good at heart.

In spite of that , the availability both here and in Britain should be known to the public at large.

I put on my raincoat and big straw hat. But we got soaked just the same .

He was very tired;  nevertheless  he went on walking.

Though he’s fool, I like him  nonetheless .

Notwithstanding  she is beautiful,she doesn’t think it goes for much.

On the flip side , accepting them and not having your needs met is not healthy either.

I want to go to the party, on the other hand  I ought to be studying.

He had worked very hard on the place; she, per contra , had little to do.

Regardless   of how often I correct him, he always makes the same mistake.

Even though you dislike us,  still and all  you should be polite.

That said, there are still places to get free Internet access.

Though  John and Andrew look exactly alike, they act quite differently.

She actually enjoys confrontation,  whereas  I prefer a quiet life.

Other man live to eat,  while  I eat to live.

The path was dark, yet I found my way.

Synonyms for However with Examples | Infographic

However Synonym

Related Posts

words to use in an essay instead of however

  • 2-minute read
  • 9th February 2022

The word however is a conjunctive adverb , which means that it’s used to link two sentences. Linking or transition words like this are important in academic writing because they show how the ideas you present in your work are connected.

Without transition words, your essays and assignments will be a series of disjointed phrases, making it difficult for readers to understand your arguments. Because however is such a useful word though, it’s easy to overuse it and end up with dull, repetitive writing. In this post, we’ll show you some alternatives, so your writing won’t become however heavy!

What Does “However” Mean?

You use however when you are introducing a contrasting or opposing idea:

Chocolate is very high in sugar; however , it is a popular snack.

Those shoes are expensive; however , they look fabulous.

I think kittens are adorable. I am, however , allergic to them.

Synonyms for “However”

You can avoid repetitive use of however by replacing it with one of the following words or phrases:

●  But

●  Although

●  Still

●  Nevertheless

●  Notwithstanding

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●  Nonetheless

●  Yet

●  On the other hand

●  Despite this or in spite of this

All of these have a broadly similar meaning to however , in that they express opposition or limitation. In most of our above examples, you could simply replace however with one of the listed alternatives:

Chocolate is very high in sugar; nevertheless , it is a popular snack.

Those shoes are expensive; still , they look fabulous.

 In some cases though, the alternatives only work if you structure the sentences differently:

I think kittens are adorable, but I am allergic to them.

Summary: Words to Use Instead of “However”

However is a useful word, because it links phrases or sentences and indicates a change in your line of reasoning. If you want to avoid repetitive use of however in your writing, be sure to choose an alternative word or phrase that has the same meaning, that is, a transition word that introduces a contrasting idea.

For more tips on vocabulary, grammar, and spelling, check out our blog . And if you need someone to review your work for errors, our proofreaders can help. You can even try out our service for free by uploading a trial document .

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What can I use instead of "but" and "however"?

I just noticed I tend to use "but" and 'however" in almost every paragraph.

Examples (all of them are from the same story):

I almost let everything out. But , funny, I didn't. I didn't want him to feel bad. Which made me wonder if maybe I enjoyed punishing myself. But what for? This was the first time we were going to be apart for so long. Two months wasn't a big deal for most people. But for me, it was an endless torture. But as I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad. That we would still see each other on weekends. Li was holding me from behind. I liked to sit like that—feeling his warmth on my back, and his moist breath on my neck. It made me feel protected, at ease. As though nothing in the world could hurt me. However , that day, something disturbed that feeling. I wanted to cry. I wanted to shout at him, tell him that I was already here. However , I knew I couldn't protest. It was my fault, after all. I had come too early, and he probably thought I was still in Nantou.

Is their use justifiable? Or should I use something else instead?

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  • word-choice

wyc's user avatar

  • Honestly, I don't see the problem with many of the uses in your example. The first example reads well. In the second I would remove the first "but." The third and fourth read fine. –  Chris Commented Jan 19, 2014 at 1:27
  • I had a therapist who suggested that, as I talked to her, I replace "but" with "and." It frequently worked! "But" sets up the upcoming statement in opposition to the first, and "and" doesn't do that. (See what I did there?) –  Ken Mohnkern Commented May 11, 2015 at 18:11

6 Answers 6

There are many synonyms to but . For the meaning you are pointing out in your question, some of them would be still, nevertheless, nonetheless, though, although, and yet . You can find these and the ones for the other meanings in any site with synonyms lookup function, such as Thesaurus ("but" synonyms) .

However , it should be noted that it can be counterproductive to sprinkle your story with synonyms of a common word just for the sake of non-repetition. Just as it happens with the word "said": Many people think you should not abuse of "said" synonyms in dialog tags (see The Use and Abuse of Dialogue Tags , for example), because it "draws [the readers'] attention away from the dialogue and yank them out of the story". Same can happen with but . The abundance of random synonyms might rather obstruct the reading experience.

If you want to show two ideas are opposed, there can be workarounds, thinking outside the box. Some times these ideas are not inherently opposed (in your first example, "Funny enough, I didn't"); some other times, the causal relationship can be implied (in your fourth example, just removing it would keep the meaning: "As I stood there..."); and some other times, it can be necessary (the rest of your examples fall in this category, in my opinion).

To finish, a workaround example, one that I don't pretend to be substitutive nor better, just to explain the idea:

I wanted to cry. I wanted to shout at him, tell him that I was already here. As I opened my mouth, I realized I couldn't protest. It was my fault, after all.

Marc Wolvesheir's user avatar

But is a conjunction that has a specific place and a specific meaning. It strikes me that your issue isn't so much with overusing the word "but" but* with using repetitive sentence structure. Please note, for instance, that you really, really aren't supposed to start a sentence with a conjunction because the whole point of a conjunction is to link two items together "I like coffee and tea." "I like coffee but I don't like tea." "I would like coffee or tea."

That isn't to say that you can't ever break this rule, but as with all grammatical rules, there are consequences. I think the primary consequence of breaking the "no conjunctions at the beginning of a sentence" rule is that it looks like you or your character finished a thought and then remembered they wanted to add something else. If you use it all the time, well... your viewpoint will sound like they're very, very confused. If that's what you're going for, don't worry about the overuse of "but" at all. If you're looking for normal, free-flowing prose, at least consider grammar.

*Note: I just typed but but.

NotVonKaiser's user avatar

Honestly, I don't see the problem with many of the uses in your example. The first example reads well. In the second I would remove the first "but." The third and fourth sound fine to my ears.

I second the advice that too much variety is potentially more distracting than the repetition.

Chris's user avatar

Like Chris I don't see a problem and would only have deleted the first "but" in the second text snippet.

You must understand that "but" is something like the 23rd most frequent word in English ( http://www.wordfrequency.info/free.asp?s=y ). It would be uncommon, if it did not appear often.

If you want, you can use this online service to calculate word frequencies for your own text: http://darylkinsman.ca/tools/wordfreq.shtml I just input my last novel and found that "but" was the 23rd most frequent word with 316 instances (of 50038) at 0.6%. If an analysis of your test shows significantly higher percentages (maybe more than 1%), you can start to worry.

What can I use instead of “but” and “however”?

Without further ado, here are the possibilities.

OTOH, on the contrary, otherwise, yet, even though, though ... still, rather, unexpectedly, despite, in spite of, ...

He is a good hire. I love his honesty, but his honesty could lead us into trouble. We should hire him. I love his honesty. On the other hand, his honesty could lead us into trouble.
The new medicine is giving people a lot of hope, but it is dangerous hope as it is not well tested yet. I do not agree with the new medicine that is giving people a lot of hope. On the contrary, I feel it is dangerous as it is not well tested yet.
The govt is not interested in people becoming rich, but they would want you to pay your taxes. The govt is not interested in people becoming rich. Rather, they would want you to pay your taxes.
The sky was clear and the weather was mild, but then it there was a thunderstorm and it started to rain. The sky was clear and the weather was mild. Unexpectedly, there was a thunderstorm and it started to rain.
She was born with debilitating condition, but she was successful in becoming a doctor. Even though she was born with debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor. Though she was born with debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor still. She was born with debilitating condition, yet she was successful in becoming a doctor. She persevered towards her success in becoming a doctor, otherwise she would have wallowed in her congenital debilitating condition. She persevered towards her success in becoming a doctor, despite her congenital debilitating condition. In spite of her being born with a debilitating condition, she was successful in becoming a doctor.

Blessed Geek's user avatar

In addition to the other good answers, "but ..." is a negation or restriction of the thing or condition it refers to. It "takes away" from it. It also breaks the flow of thought/action (which is fine when it's on purpose.)

Many people use this in speech and writing all the time as a matter of habit, even when it's not really necessary or appropriate. A lot of the time two ideas are just in sequence and could simply be stated or even joined with "and".

Your second example shows both (as possibilities - not as I'm right/you're wrong!)

For me, it was an endless torture. As I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad. For me, it was an endless torture and as I stood there, watching the bus disappear down the street, I reminded myself that it wasn't so bad.

There's a whole study called Conscious Languaging which teaches people to reduce or eliminate such usages because it can be a form of self sabotage.

On the flip side of this, using "but" can help convey uncertainty, hesitation, low self esteem, or intentional negating of the subject.

Garrison Keillor (in his A Prairie Home Companion radio show) uses this to great effect with his Norwegian bachelor farmers' "Yuh,but ...", where they have a reason why almost anything good won't work out - which serves mainly as a reflection on their state of mind rather than on the subject itself.

Joe's user avatar

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words to use in an essay instead of however

  • Help Center

Thesaurus for However

Related terms for however - synonyms, antonyms and sentences with however, similar meaning.

  • nevertheless
  • nonetheless
  • despite that
  • be that as it may
  • notwithstanding
  • having said that
  • in any case
  • all the same
  • at any rate
  • in any event
  • at the same time
  • for all that
  • in spite of that
  • none the less

Opposite meaning

  • accordingly
  • correspondingly
  • appropriately
  • as a consequence
  • consistently
  • as a result
  • consequently
  • because of this
  • in consequence
  • for this reason
  • due to the fact
  • for that reason
  • in that case
  • due to this
  • in so doing
  • in that event

Common usage

  • complication
  • contingency
  • decrepitude
  • distemperature

Sentence Examples

Proper usage in context.

  • A bear, however hard he tries, grows tubby without exercise Pooh's Little Instruction Book
  • However motherhood comes to you, it's a miracle Valerie Harper
  • However you make your living is where your talent lies Ernest Hemingway
  • No labor, however humble, is dishonoring Talmud
  • Boldness is a mask for fear, however great John Dryden
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? ? Here's a list of from our that you can use instead. ) , did it anyway despite being told not to.” , our daughter wants the crunchy ones. Why don't we have both?” well or badly it goes.” was he able to pull it off despite all obstacles before him?” ) In any case or event from the greatest evils.”
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Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

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By Hannah Yang

words to use in an essay

Table of Contents

Words to use in the essay introduction, words to use in the body of the essay, words to use in your essay conclusion, how to improve your essay writing vocabulary.

It’s not easy to write an academic essay .

Many students struggle to word their arguments in a logical and concise way.

To make matters worse, academic essays need to adhere to a certain level of formality, so we can’t always use the same word choices in essay writing that we would use in daily life.

If you’re struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay.

The introduction is one of the hardest parts of an essay to write.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, and you want to hook your reader. If the introduction isn’t effective, the reader might not even bother to read the rest of the essay.

That’s why it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate with the words you choose at the beginning of your essay.

Many students use a quote in the introductory paragraph to establish credibility and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

When you’re referencing another author or speaker, try using some of these phrases:

To use the words of X

According to X

As X states

Example: To use the words of Hillary Clinton, “You cannot have maternal health without reproductive health.”

Near the end of the introduction, you should state the thesis to explain the central point of your paper.

If you’re not sure how to introduce your thesis, try using some of these phrases:

In this essay, I will…

The purpose of this essay…

This essay discusses…

In this paper, I put forward the claim that…

There are three main arguments for…

Phrases to introduce a thesis

Example: In this essay, I will explain why dress codes in public schools are detrimental to students.

After you’ve stated your thesis, it’s time to start presenting the arguments you’ll use to back up that central idea.

When you’re introducing the first of a series of arguments, you can use the following words:

First and foremost

First of all

To begin with

Example: First , consider the effects that this new social security policy would have on low-income taxpayers.

All these words and phrases will help you create a more successful introduction and convince your audience to read on.

The body of your essay is where you’ll explain your core arguments and present your evidence.

It’s important to choose words and phrases for the body of your essay that will help the reader understand your position and convince them you’ve done your research.

Let’s look at some different types of words and phrases that you can use in the body of your essay, as well as some examples of what these words look like in a sentence.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitioning from one argument to another is crucial for a good essay.

It’s important to guide your reader from one idea to the next so they don’t get lost or feel like you’re jumping around at random.

Transition phrases and linking words show your reader you’re about to move from one argument to the next, smoothing out their reading experience. They also make your writing look more professional.

The simplest transition involves moving from one idea to a separate one that supports the same overall argument. Try using these phrases when you want to introduce a second correlating idea:

Additionally

In addition

Furthermore

Another key thing to remember

In the same way

Correspondingly

Example: Additionally , public parks increase property value because home buyers prefer houses that are located close to green, open spaces.

Another type of transition involves restating. It’s often useful to restate complex ideas in simpler terms to help the reader digest them. When you’re restating an idea, you can use the following words:

In other words

To put it another way

That is to say

To put it more simply

Example: “The research showed that 53% of students surveyed expressed a mild or strong preference for more on-campus housing. In other words , over half the students wanted more dormitory options.”

Often, you’ll need to provide examples to illustrate your point more clearly for the reader. When you’re about to give an example of something you just said, you can use the following words:

For instance

To give an illustration of

To exemplify

To demonstrate

As evidence

Example: Humans have long tried to exert control over our natural environment. For instance , engineers reversed the Chicago River in 1900, causing it to permanently flow backward.

Sometimes, you’ll need to explain the impact or consequence of something you’ve just said.

When you’re drawing a conclusion from evidence you’ve presented, try using the following words:

As a result

Accordingly

As you can see

This suggests that

It follows that

It can be seen that

For this reason

For all of those reasons

Consequently

Example: “There wasn’t enough government funding to support the rest of the physics experiment. Thus , the team was forced to shut down their experiment in 1996.”

Phrases to draw conclusions

When introducing an idea that bolsters one you’ve already stated, or adds another important aspect to that same argument, you can use the following words:

What’s more

Not only…but also

Not to mention

To say nothing of

Another key point

Example: The volcanic eruption disrupted hundreds of thousands of people. Moreover , it impacted the local flora and fauna as well, causing nearly a hundred species to go extinct.

Often, you'll want to present two sides of the same argument. When you need to compare and contrast ideas, you can use the following words:

On the one hand / on the other hand

Alternatively

In contrast to

On the contrary

By contrast

In comparison

Example: On the one hand , the Black Death was undoubtedly a tragedy because it killed millions of Europeans. On the other hand , it created better living conditions for the peasants who survived.

Finally, when you’re introducing a new angle that contradicts your previous idea, you can use the following phrases:

Having said that

Differing from

In spite of

With this in mind

Provided that

Nevertheless

Nonetheless

Notwithstanding

Example: Shakespearean plays are classic works of literature that have stood the test of time. Having said that , I would argue that Shakespeare isn’t the most accessible form of literature to teach students in the twenty-first century.

Good essays include multiple types of logic. You can use a combination of the transitions above to create a strong, clear structure throughout the body of your essay.

Strong Verbs for Academic Writing

Verbs are especially important for writing clear essays. Often, you can convey a nuanced meaning simply by choosing the right verb.

You should use strong verbs that are precise and dynamic. Whenever possible, you should use an unambiguous verb, rather than a generic verb.

For example, alter and fluctuate are stronger verbs than change , because they give the reader more descriptive detail.

Here are some useful verbs that will help make your essay shine.

Verbs that show change:

Accommodate

Verbs that relate to causing or impacting something:

Verbs that show increase:

Verbs that show decrease:

Deteriorate

Verbs that relate to parts of a whole:

Comprises of

Is composed of

Constitutes

Encompasses

Incorporates

Verbs that show a negative stance:

Misconstrue

Verbs that show a negative stance

Verbs that show a positive stance:

Substantiate

Verbs that relate to drawing conclusions from evidence:

Corroborate

Demonstrate

Verbs that relate to thinking and analysis:

Contemplate

Hypothesize

Investigate

Verbs that relate to showing information in a visual format:

Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Academic Essays

You should use adjectives and adverbs more sparingly than verbs when writing essays, since they sometimes add unnecessary fluff to sentences.

However, choosing the right adjectives and adverbs can help add detail and sophistication to your essay.

Sometimes you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is useful and should be taken seriously. Here are some adjectives that create positive emphasis:

Significant

Other times, you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is harmful or ineffective. Here are some adjectives that create a negative emphasis:

Controversial

Insignificant

Questionable

Unnecessary

Unrealistic

Finally, you might need to use an adverb to lend nuance to a sentence, or to express a specific degree of certainty. Here are some examples of adverbs that are often used in essays:

Comprehensively

Exhaustively

Extensively

Respectively

Surprisingly

Using these words will help you successfully convey the key points you want to express. Once you’ve nailed the body of your essay, it’s time to move on to the conclusion.

The conclusion of your paper is important for synthesizing the arguments you’ve laid out and restating your thesis.

In your concluding paragraph, try using some of these essay words:

In conclusion

To summarize

In a nutshell

Given the above

As described

All things considered

Example: In conclusion , it’s imperative that we take action to address climate change before we lose our coral reefs forever.

In addition to simply summarizing the key points from the body of your essay, you should also add some final takeaways. Give the reader your final opinion and a bit of a food for thought.

To place emphasis on a certain point or a key fact, use these essay words:

Unquestionably

Undoubtedly

Particularly

Importantly

Conclusively

It should be noted

On the whole

Example: Ada Lovelace is unquestionably a powerful role model for young girls around the world, and more of our public school curricula should include her as a historical figure.

These concluding phrases will help you finish writing your essay in a strong, confident way.

There are many useful essay words out there that we didn't include in this article, because they are specific to certain topics.

If you're writing about biology, for example, you will need to use different terminology than if you're writing about literature.

So how do you improve your vocabulary skills?

The vocabulary you use in your academic writing is a toolkit you can build up over time, as long as you take the time to learn new words.

One way to increase your vocabulary is by looking up words you don’t know when you’re reading.

Try reading more books and academic articles in the field you’re writing about and jotting down all the new words you find. You can use these words to bolster your own essays.

You can also consult a dictionary or a thesaurus. When you’re using a word you’re not confident about, researching its meaning and common synonyms can help you make sure it belongs in your essay.

Don't be afraid of using simpler words. Good essay writing boils down to choosing the best word to convey what you need to say, not the fanciest word possible.

Finally, you can use ProWritingAid’s synonym tool or essay checker to find more precise and sophisticated vocabulary. Click on weak words in your essay to find stronger alternatives.

ProWritingAid offering synonyms for great

There you have it: our compilation of the best words and phrases to use in your next essay . Good luck!

words to use in an essay instead of however

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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English Recap

9 Words to Use Instead of “And” to Start a Sentence

words to use in an essay instead of however

Are you worried about consistently using “and” at the start of a sentence?

Perhaps you find it too repetitive, or you’re worried it’ll take your reader’s attention away from your words.

Fear not! This article is here to help.

We’ll teach you how to start a sentence without “and” to help spice up your essays and other academic writing pieces.

Should a Sentence Start With “And”?

You should try to avoid starting a sentence with “and.”

It is correct , but it’s not always a good choice. If you’re going to use it, you should only use it once or twice in an essay, if at all.

It is informal , though. So, you’ll need to account for that before using it in an essay.

You can use it when writing about yourself or other informal essay tropes. But still, it’s best to limit how often you do it if you want to sound proper.

Here are two examples showing you how it works:

I liked most of the things I did. And I’m sure I’ll find plenty of other ways to excite myself.

This is the best way to continue. And it’s clear that people aren’t looking for alternatives right now.

  • It’s an interesting way to start a new sentence informally.
  • It’s not very common as people avoid it, so it can help your essay to stand out.
  • Some readers see it as incorrect (even though it isn’t), which could take away from your content.
  • If used too much, it becomes very repetitive.

While there isn’t anything wrong with using “and” to start a sentence, that doesn’t mean you should stick to it. So, it’s time to explore some alternatives to see what else works.

Keep reading to learn what words to use instead of “and” when writing an essay or in other professional contexts. We’ve gathered some great options to help you.

What to Say Instead of “And”

  • Additionally
  • Furthermore
  • Nevertheless
  • To add to that
  • Alternatively

1. Additionally

One of the most common ways to replace “and” at the start of a sentence is “additionally.”

You can use this to keep things formal and direct . It shows you have something to add to a sentence, but you feel it’s worthy of a new sentence before adding it.

For the most part, this keeps the reader engaged .

So you can use it in academic writing . It shows you’ve got a few additions to make to a sentence, and you’d appreciate the reader’s full attention when doing so.

Here are some great writing samples to show you more about how to use it:

This appears to be the best way forward. Additionally , it makes the most sense, as it covers all angles.

I have thought about the opportunity for a while. Additionally , I’m sure there will be plenty of backlash.

2. Furthermore

You can spice up your formal writing by including “furthermore” instead of “and.”

This is a good synonym to start a sentence with, as it keeps things direct and clear . Most of the time, the reader will understand that you’re linking new information to the previous sentence.

Remember, whenever you start a new sentence with “and” or a synonym, it implies that it relates to the information you just shared.

The reader should be following along. So, this is just a way to keep things as clear as possible for them.

Here are some great essay samples to help you understand a bit more about it:

This could go either way. Furthermore , it’s important to let things settle before we try to fix anything.

I’m looking for some more variables. Furthermore , there are options to expand on the experiment that I can pursue.

3. Moreover

We also recommend using “moreover” as another way to start a sentence instead of “and.”

You can include this in an essay . It’s a great choice that will impress a teacher when used correctly.

Feel free to include it to keep things formal and direct . It shows you have more to add, and readers should be able to see more about what you’re trying to say.

However, as with many synonyms in this article, it’s best not to overuse it! Stick to using it just once or twice in an essay to keep things clear and readable.

Also, you can review these examples to learn a little more about it:

It’s clear that they haven’t thought about the direction. Moreover , they’ve been questioned on it and can’t decide what comes next.

I have decided that this makes the most sense. Moreover , it’s going to be the best way for us to handle it.

We also think it’s good to use “however” in your writing. However, it’s not quite as versatile as “and,” so you need to know the difference.

For starters, “and” adds information. It can add positive, negative, or contradictory information. It’s a completely open-ended word that changes the course of a few sentences.

With “however,” you can only contradict the previous sentence . So, it works well to replace “and,” but it’s more limited inf how useful it is.

Still, we recommend using it because it keeps the reader engaged when starting a new sentence.

You can also review these examples to learn a bit more:

I’m unsure if this is the answer to the question. However , I’m willing to explore it more to see whether it sticks.

It’s clear that they have multiple issues. However , they’re still worth supporting to see what comes next.

5. Nevertheless

You can also use “nevertheless” as an alternative to starting a sentence with “and.” This is a great way to contradict previous information in a sentence.

Generally, this keeps things formal and direct . It helps readers to understand that the information in the previous sentence does not directly impact the new sentence.

Therefore, it’s a good way to engage readers and show them that you’ve thought things through. The more well-thought-out your essay is, the better it’ll be overall.

Feel free to review these essay samples to learn more:

This is the best option for the situation. Nevertheless , I will still explore alternatives to see what else works.

I’m going to look into it. Nevertheless , it’s important for you to do the same to see what comes out of it.

6. Conversely

If you’re still struggling with what to start a sentence with instead of “and,” perhaps “conversely” is the one for you.

It works well when introducing a contradicting idea . Of course, this makes it a bit more limited than “and,” but it’s still a great alternative.

Generally, you can use this when sharing information with the reader that goes against the previous piece of information they learned.

It shows that you’ve explored alternative options. So, it works quite well when writing a persuasive essay .

You can also review the following examples to learn more:

It’s clear that this option works well. Conversely , plenty of others have pointed towards the other one as the best to move with.

I’m sure the statistics are correct. Conversely , there is a large margin for error here that we need to focus on.

7. To Add to That

Also, it’s good to use “to add to that” when trying to find a replacement for “and” in your writing.

It’s much more suitable in formal writing because it’s a phrase showing you’ll add further information. For the most part, this makes what you aim to achieve really clear.

Generally, readers will appreciate this . It’s direct and clear , making it obvious that you’re adding something new for them to pay attention to.

You can also review these examples to learn a bit more about it:

I’m not sure if they touched on the topic. To add to that , it’s not evident whether they’re willing to expand their search.

We have looked into it before. To add to that , there wasn’t much of a need for us to try harder.

8. Alternatively

It’s also good to write “alternatively” instead of “and” to start a sentence.

You can’t go wrong with this if you’re introducing an alternative idea . Generally, this means it relates to something from the previous sentence, but it comes about it from a different perspective.

You can use this when writing an academic paper . Generally, it’s a good way to explain something to a reader quickly.

Here are some examples if you still need help with it:

This seems to be the best move. Alternatively , we can look into other options before trying again.

It’s good to try it like this. Alternatively , we will have to find another outlet.

9. Meanwhile

And finally, we think it’s good to write “meanwhile” instead of “and.”

This works well at the start of a sentence because it helps you to group two sentences or clauses together.

And it helps that “meanwhile” sounds natural at the start of a sentence . So, most readers will already be used to it.

Here are some examples to help you:

This is a good choice. Meanwhile , there are other options that need to be explored fully.

I’m sure it’s going to work well for us. Meanwhile , can we look into some variations that might change the outcome?

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  1. Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

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  2. 90+ Synonyms for "However" with Examples

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  3. Other Ways to Say HOWEVER : 42 Powerful Synonyms for However in English

    words to use in an essay instead of however

  4. 9 Words To Use Instead Of "However" (With Examples)

    words to use in an essay instead of however

  5. However Synonym: List of 40+ Powerful Synonyms for HOWEVER Said

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  6. +15 Ways to Say BUT in English although however except nevertheless on

    words to use in an essay instead of however

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COMMENTS

  1. 18 Other Ways to Say "However" in an Essay

    "Alternatively" is another word to use instead of "however" in academic writing. Like the original phrase, it can be used at the start of a sentence. Essentially, "alternatively" means "as another possibility." ... It is perfectly okay to use "however" in an essay. However, we do advise that you use it with caution.

  2. 9 Words To Use Instead Of "However" (With Examples)

    Though. "Though" is another common choice which we often see instead of "however.". Many people think it works in the same way as "although.". It's simply a shorter version of "although" in the case of countering an argument. "Though" is a great choice, like "yet" and "but," which only requires a comma to work.

  3. 10 Other Words for "However" in an Essay

    At the same time. With that said. Still. Be that as it may. But. Keep reading to learn more words to replace "however" in an essay. 1. Though. One of the more common synonyms for "however" in academic writing is "though.".

  4. 22 of the Best Synonyms for 'However'

    With this in mind, we might identify THEREFORE, THUS, and SO as antonyms for however. By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University) There are lots of strange ideas surrounding the word 'however'. Some teachers tell their students they shouldn't begin a new sentence with the word 'but', and should substitute the word 'however' instead.

  5. Vocabulary Tips: Synonyms for "However"

    Summary: Words to Use Instead of "However" However is a useful word, because it links phrases or sentences and indicates a change in your line of reasoning. If you want to avoid repetitive use of however in your writing, be sure to choose an alternative word or phrase that has the same meaning, that is, a transition word that introduces a ...

  6. Another Word for However

    The following are some of the formal synonyms for "however": Synonym. Definition. Notwithstanding. Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said. Conversely. Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has already been said. In contrast.

  7. 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

    4. That is to say. Usage: "That is" and "that is to say" can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: "Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.". 5. To that end. Usage: Use "to that end" or "to this end" in a similar way to "in order to" or "so".

  8. 90+ Synonyms for "However" with Examples

    Yes, there are several synonyms for 'however' that are suitable for use in formal writing. Some of these include 'nevertheless', 'nonetheless', 'yet', 'although', 'in spite of that', 'still', 'notwithstanding', 'regardless', 'albeit', and 'despite this'. It is important to choose the appropriate word ...

  9. Words and Phrases to Use instead of HOWEVER

    Nevertheless. Just like "however", we use "nevertheless" to show contrast. It has a similar meaning to "despite that". Tom was tired and sleepy; nevertheless, he kept on walking. Though enormously rich, he was nevertheless a thrifty, penny-pinching person. Mary never wanted to be a housewife but she nevertheless got married and ...

  10. Alternatives to leading a sentence with the conjunctive adverb "However"

    The word "however" is used to lead off a sentence that counters a previous thought. Are there any alternative words or phrases that can substitute? I'm even looking for old English and obsolete words and phrases. I'm trying to add some creativity to my writing. I'll start by including words that are nearly as tired: Nevertheless

  11. How can I avoid overuse of words like "however" and "therefore" in

    However (see I can't even help myself), I feel compelled to use words like "however" to help with flow. To me, the "however" in the last sentence is optional. You add it to emphasize contradiction with the previous statement. You could replace with. Unfortunately, I still feel compelled to use words like "however" to help with flow.

  12. HOWEVER Synonym: 23 Useful Words to Use Instead of HOWEVER

    Be that as it may. But. Despite. For all that. In spite of. On the other hand. Per contra. Though. Without regard to.

  13. 17 academic words and phrases to use in your essay

    4. Moreover; furthermore; in addition; what's more. These types of academic phrases are perfect for expanding or adding to a point you've already made without interrupting the flow altogether. "Moreover", "furthermore" and "in addition" are also great linking phrases to begin a new paragraph. Here are some examples:

  14. HOWEVER Synonyms: 17 Similar Words

    Synonyms for HOWEVER: though, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, yet, notwithstanding, at the same time, all the same, just the same, even so

  15. 42 Powerful Synonyms for However in English

    Other Ways to Say However | Infographic. Pin. Other Ways to Say However However Synonyms with Examples. Learn another word for however with example sentences. All the same; All the same, there is some truth in what he says. Although; Although it was late, there was still enough time to keep the rendezvous. And yet; The boy is so fat and yet he ...

  16. Vocabulary Tips: Synonyms for "However"

    Summary: Words to Use Instead of "However" However is a useful word, because it links phrases or sentences and indicates a change in your line of reasoning. If you want to avoid repetitive use of however in your writing, be sure to choose an alternative word or phrase that has the same meaning, that is, a transition word that introduces a ...

  17. fiction

    Honestly, I don't see the problem with many of the uses in your example. The first example reads well. In the second I would remove the first "but." The third and fourth read fine. - Chris. Jan 19, 2014 at 1:27. I had a therapist who suggested that, as I talked to her, I replace "but" with "and." It frequently worked!

  18. How to Use the Word "However"

    However (Whatever) This sense of "however" typically means "to whatever extent" or "in whatever manner": I'll catch you one day, however far you run! It's not a formal event, so dress however you want. Note that in the examples above, there's no punctuation between "however" and the thing it's modifying (i.e., distance ...

  19. HOWEVER in Thesaurus: 1000+ Synonyms & Antonyms for HOWEVER

    even so. in any case. all the same. at any rate. in any event. albeit. at the same time. howbeit. for all that.

  20. What is another word for however

    despite that. regardless. but despite that. but for all that. but in spite of that. even so. having said that. in spite of that. nonetheless.

  21. Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

    If you're struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don't worry—you've come to the right place! In this article, we've compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay. Contents: Words to Use in the Essay Introduction. Words to Use in the Body of the Essay.

  22. 9 Words to Use Instead of "And" to Start a Sentence

    1. Additionally. One of the most common ways to replace "and" at the start of a sentence is "additionally.". You can use this to keep things formal and direct. It shows you have something to add to a sentence, but you feel it's worthy of a new sentence before adding it. For the most part, this keeps the reader engaged.