Introduction

Have you ever been told by a teacher or editor that starting a sentence with ‘however’ is incorrect? If so, you’re not alone. Many people have been taught that starting a sentence with a conjunction like ‘however’ is breaking one of the fundamental rules of grammar. However, language is constantly evolving, and sometimes following the traditional rules of grammar simply doesn’t work in modern writing. This article will explore the use of ‘however’ at the start of a sentence and break down the traditional grammar rules to help you master this sometimes controversial topic.

Breaking Grammar Rules: Starting Sentences with However

Before we dive into the proper use of ‘however’, let’s first take a look at the traditional grammar rules regarding sentence structure and conjunctions. Typically, a conjunction joins two independent clauses together, and starting a sentence with a conjunction is considered grammatically incorrect. Examples of conjunctions include ‘and’, ‘but’, and ‘or’.

Here, the word ‘however’ can function both as a conjunction or an adverb:

• Conjunction: I want to go to the party however it’s raining outside.
• Adverb: However it’s raining outside, I still want to go to the party.

According to the traditional grammar rules, it is incorrect to use ‘however’ as a conjunction and start a sentence with it. However, as we will explore in later sections, this rule is not always a hard and fast one.

The Proper Use of However: Starting Sentences with the Adverb

In order to properly use ‘however’ at the start of a sentence, it is important to understand its function as an adverb. Adverbs are words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs in a sentence. When ‘however’ is used as an adverb, it can be placed at the start of a sentence to modify an entire clause.

Here are some examples of properly using ‘however’ as an adverb at the start of a sentence:

• However difficult the task may be, I am up for the challenge.
• However tired I may be, I am determined to finish this project tonight.

In both of these examples, ‘however’ modifies the entire first clause of the sentence, indicating that something might make the task or the person tired or might present it as challenging. By placing ‘however’ at the start of the sentence, the writer emphasizes their determination and willingness to overcome any obstacles.

Challenging Traditional Grammar: Using However at the Start of a Sentence

The English language is constantly evolving, and so are the rules around its usage. While the traditional grammar rules dictate that conjunctions should not be used at the start of a sentence, credible sources, such as The Chicago Manual of Style, argue that ‘however’ can indeed be used as a conjunction at the start of a sentence.

Here are some examples of starting a sentence with ‘however’ as a conjunction:

• However you look at it, our team is the clear winner.
• However often you practice, you can never be too prepared.

While this may go against traditional grammar rules, it is becoming more and more acceptable in modern writing styles. By challenging traditional grammar rules, writers can create more literary power and interest in their work.

Starting Sentences with However: A Comprehensive Guide

Now that we’ve explored the traditional grammar rules and the proper use of ‘however’, let’s dive deeper into how you can become a master of using ‘however’ at the start of a sentence.

Tips and tricks for using ‘however’

One way to enhance your writing and properly use ‘however’ is to start practicing using it in new ways. Experiment with sentences and paragraphs to see where ‘however’ can add more emphasis or interest. Here are some tips and tricks to consider when using ‘however’:

• Use ‘however’ to add emphasis to a particular point in your writing
• Be aware of the balance of sentence structure when starting with ‘however’
• Consider ‘however’ as an effective way to grab your reader’s attention

Understanding when to use ‘however’ as an adverb versus a conjunction

When using ‘however’, it is important to understand the context in which it is being used. Here are some instances of when to use ‘however’ as an adverb:

• When emphasizing the connection between two ideas
• When communicating an obstacle to overcome
• When replacing another adverb in the sentence, such as ‘nevertheless’

If you are using ‘however’ as a conjunction, consider combining two independent clauses together, indicating a contrast or unexpected turn. Here are some examples:

• We had planned to go to the beach. However, a sudden thunderstorm ruined our plans.
• She loves to travel. However, she hates flying.

How to balance sentence structure when starting with ‘however’

When starting a sentence with ‘however’, it is important to balance the sentence structure. How you do this may depend on the context of your writing, but here are some tips to help:

• Use the dependent and independent clauses strategically
• Recast the sentence if needed
• Move ‘however’ elsewhere in the sentence if it is causing confusion

However: The Adverb You Can Start a Sentence With

With the proper use of ‘however’, you can create more literary power and add interest to your writing. By mastering the use of ‘however’, you can emphasize the connection between two ideas, communicate obstacles, replace other adverbs, and more. Additionally, starting a sentence with ‘however’ can grab your reader’s attention and emphasize your point even more.

Why Starting Sentences with However is Acceptable

The traditional grammar rules surrounding conjunctions can vary from source to source, and while some people may view starting a sentence with ‘however’ as incorrect, modern styles embrace their use. In fact, the Oxford English Dictionary claims that starting a sentence with a conjunction is a “natural idiom in the English language”. So, while it may not always fit the traditional rules, starting a sentence with ‘however’ is acceptable and even encouraged in today’s writing landscape.

Debunking Myths: Starting Sentences with However is Allowed

Despite the acceptance of starting a sentence with ‘however’, there are still some myths and misconceptions surrounding its use. Here are some of the most common misconceptions and why they are false:

• Myth: Starting a sentence with a conjunction is always incorrect.
  • Reality: Language rules are constantly evolving, and modern styles embrace sentences that start with ‘however’.
• Myth: Starting a sentence with ‘however’ always makes it a dependent clause.
  • Reality: ‘However’ can function as both a conjunction or an adverb, and its use depends on the context of the sentence.
• Myth: Starting a sentence with ‘however’ is only for casual or informal writing.
  • Reality: ‘However’ can be used in a variety of writing styles and genres, from academic papers to creative nonfiction.

Conclusion

As we’ve explored in this article, starting a sentence with ‘however’ is not only acceptable in modern writing styles, it can also be an effective tool for creating more interest and emphasis in your writing. By understanding the proper use of ‘however’ as an adverb and as a conjunction, as well as following tips and tricks for balancing sentence structure, you can make your writing more powerful and engaging. So, don’t be afraid to start a sentence with ‘however’ – embrace it and see how it can enhance your writing!

Now, it’s your turn. Give it a try and see how starting a sentence with ‘however’ can add to your writing.