Can I Start A Sentence With However? A Comprehensive Guide To Grammar And Stylistic Usage

Dr. Mac King III 20 Jun 2025

Starting a sentence with "however" has long been a topic of debate in the world of grammar and writing. Many people wonder whether it is grammatically correct or if it breaks any rules. In reality, using "however" at the beginning of a sentence is perfectly acceptable, but there are nuances and best practices you should follow to maintain clarity and professionalism in your writing.

Language evolves over time, and what was once considered a strict rule may now be seen as a stylistic choice. Understanding the proper use of "however" can enhance your writing and ensure that your message is clear and concise. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of starting a sentence with "however," including its grammatical correctness, stylistic considerations, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Whether you're a student, professional writer, or simply someone who wants to improve their writing skills, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to use "however" effectively. Let's dive in!

Is Starting a Sentence with However Grammatically Correct?
Guidelines for Using However at the Beginning of a Sentence
Stylistic Considerations When Using However
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Examples of Sentences Starting with However
A Historical Perspective on the Use of However
Alternatives to Starting a Sentence with However
Using However in Academic Writing
The Role of However in Professional Writing
Conclusion: Mastering the Use of However

Is Starting a Sentence with However Grammatically Correct?

Contrary to popular belief, starting a sentence with "however" is grammatically correct. The word "however" is a conjunctive adverb, which means it connects ideas between sentences or clauses. While some traditional grammar rules discouraged this practice, modern linguists and writers agree that it is acceptable as long as it is used appropriately.

Why the Confusion Exists

The confusion surrounding "however" stems from outdated grammar rules that emphasized the importance of maintaining flow within a sentence. However, language evolves, and today's writers have more flexibility in how they structure their sentences. As long as the sentence is clear and the meaning is not ambiguous, starting with "however" is perfectly fine.

Guidelines for Using However at the Beginning of a Sentence

While starting a sentence with "however" is grammatically correct, there are guidelines to follow to ensure your writing remains clear and professional. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Use a comma after "however" when it begins a sentence.
Ensure the sentence contrasts with the previous one to maintain logical flow.
Avoid overusing "however" at the start of sentences to prevent redundancy.

Stylistic Considerations When Using However

Stylistically, "however" can add depth and nuance to your writing. It signals contrast or opposition, making it a powerful tool for emphasizing differences. However, it is important to balance its use with other transitional words to avoid monotony.

Enhancing Readability

To enhance readability, consider the following:

Vary the placement of "however" within your sentences.
Use it sparingly to maintain impact.
Pair it with other transitional words like "although," "nevertheless," or "on the other hand" for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite its grammatical correctness, there are common mistakes writers make when using "however" at the beginning of a sentence. Here are a few to watch out for:

Forgetting to include a comma after "however."
Using "however" without a clear contrasting idea.
Overusing "however" to the point where it becomes repetitive.

Examples of Sentences Starting with However

To better understand how to use "however" effectively, here are some examples:

She enjoyed the party immensely. However, she felt tired afterward.
Many people believe that exercise is only for the young. However, studies show that it benefits people of all ages.
The weather forecast predicted sunshine. However, it rained all day.

A Historical Perspective on the Use of However

The use of "however" at the beginning of a sentence has a long history. In the 19th century, grammarians often discouraged this practice, believing it disrupted sentence flow. However, as language evolved, writers and linguists began to recognize its value as a stylistic tool. Today, it is widely accepted in both formal and informal writing.

Evolution of Language

Language is constantly changing, and what was once considered improper may now be seen as acceptable. The acceptance of "however" at the start of a sentence reflects this evolution, highlighting the importance of adaptability in communication.

Alternatives to Starting a Sentence with However

While "however" is a powerful word, there are alternatives you can use to achieve similar effects:

Although
Nevertheless
On the other hand
Despite this

Using these alternatives can add variety to your writing and prevent overuse of "however."

Using However in Academic Writing

In academic writing, "however" is frequently used to introduce contrasting ideas or to signal a shift in argument. It is essential to use it correctly to maintain clarity and coherence. For example:

Many researchers argue that technology improves education. However, others contend that it can lead to distractions and decreased attention spans.

Best Practices in Academic Writing

When using "however" in academic writing, consider the following:

Ensure the contrast is logical and supported by evidence.
Use "however" sparingly to maintain focus on the main argument.
Pair it with other transitional words to enhance flow.

The Role of However in Professional Writing

In professional writing, "however" can be a valuable tool for emphasizing contrasts and highlighting key points. Whether you're drafting a business report or composing an email, using "however" effectively can enhance your communication.

Tips for Professional Writing

Here are some tips for using "however" in professional contexts:

Be concise and direct when using "however."
Avoid overly complex sentences that may confuse the reader.
Use it to highlight important contrasts or exceptions.

Conclusion: Mastering the Use of However

Starting a sentence with "however" is grammatically correct and can be a powerful tool in your writing arsenal. By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this article, you can use "however" effectively to enhance clarity, coherence, and style in your writing.

We encourage you to practice using "however" in your writing and to explore alternative transitional words to add variety. Don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or explore other articles on our site for more writing tips!

References:

Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Oxford English Dictionary
Cambridge Grammar of the English Language

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