Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
However
How-ev′er
,adv.
[Sometimes contracted into
howe’er
.] 1.
In whetever manner, way, or degree.
However
yet they me despise and spite. Spenser.
Howe'er
the business goes, you have made fault. Shakespeare
2.
At all events; at least; in any case.
Our chief end is to be freed from all, if it may be,
however
from the greatest evils. Tillotson.
How-ev′er
,c
onj.
Nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet; still; though;
as, I shall not oppose your design; I can not,
however
, approve of it. These words, as here compared, have an adversative sense in reference to something referred to in the context. However is the most general, and leads to a final conclusion or decision. Thus we say, the truth, however, has not yet fully come out; i.e., such is the speaker's conclusion in view of the whole case. So also we say, however, you may rely on my assistance to that amount; i. e., at all events, whatever may happen, this is my final decision. At least is adversative in another way. It points out the utmost concession that can possibly be required, and still marks the adversative conclusion;
as,
. at least
, this must be done; whatever may be our love of peace, we must at least
maintain the rights of conscienceNevertheless
denotes that though the concession be fully made, it has no bearing of the question; as,
. nevertheless
, we must go forwardYet
signifies that however extreme the supposition or fact comceded may be, the consequence which might naturally be expected does not and will not follow; as, though I should die with thee,
. Cf. yet
will I not deny thee; though he slay me, yet
will I trust in himBut
. Webster 1828 Edition
However
HOWEV'ER
,adv.
1.
At all events; at least. Our chief end is to be freed from all, if it may be, however, from the greatest evils.
2.
Nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet. I shall not oppose your design; I cannot however approve of it. You might howe'er have took a fairer way.