Although vs However
What’s the difference between them?
Although
Meaning:
used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said before.
Examples:
1. Although I was tired, I stayed up late to finish the project.
2. Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.
3. Although I had doubts, I chose to trust her judgement.
However
Meaning:
nonetheless.
Examples:
1. However, I still have some reservations about the decision.
2. We had a great time on vacation, however, the flight back was quite turbulent.
3. We had a full day planned, however, the rain cancelled our outdoor activities.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Although
1. Despite
2. Notwithstanding
3. Nevertheless
4. Nonetheless
5. In spite of
1. Disregard
2. Contrary
3. Refuse
4. Abstain
5. Rejecting
However
1. Nevertheless
2. Nonetheless
3. Nonetheless
4. Despite that
5. In spite of that
1. Nevertheless
2. On the contrary
3. In contrast
4. Nonetheless
5. On the other hand
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Although", "However".
1. Remember that 'although' is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said before, whereas 'however' is used to express that a statement is nonetheless true or part of the current discussion.
2. Think of 'however' as a way of saying that something is still true in spite of the previous statement.
3. Keep in mind that 'although' indicates a contrast between two statements, whereas 'however' signals that a new statement is still true.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should 'although' be used?
Although should be used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said before. It is useful for showing that two ideas, although seemingly at odds with each other, can both be true.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'however'?
However should be used to introduce a statement that is in contrast or opposition to the previous statement, emphasizing that despite what has just been said, the opposite is true. It can be used to indicate that one point overrides the other.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, although and however do not share the same pronunciation. Although is pronounced with a long O sound: /ɔːlˈðoʊ/ and however is pronounced with an 'ow' sound: /haʊˈɛvə/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is confusing them with each other and using them interchangeably. Although and however are not interchangeable words and should be used for different purposes. Additionally, people often overlook the fact that although and however are both conjunctions, and should be used to connect two clauses.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. She had a tight deadline for the project, ________ she managed to finish it on time. Although, However
2. The car broke down several times on the way, ________ it made it to its destination. Although, However
3. ________ the train was delayed, the passengers still arrived on time. Although, However
4. The day was very hot, ________ there was a fresh breeze in the evening. Although, However
5. ________ the game was difficult, the team managed to win. Although, However
6. His work wasnt perfect, ________ the employer was still very satisfied. Although, However
1. She had a tight deadline for the project, however she managed to finish it on time.
Explanation: Although this sentence talks about a difficult situation, she was still able to complete the project, thus the better choice to use is however which implies a contrast.
2. The car broke down several times on the way, although it made it to its destination.
Explanation: This sentence talks about a difficult situation, however it still manages to complete the journey, thus the better choice to use is although which implies a contrast.
3. Although the train was delayed, the passengers still arrived on time.
Explanation: This sentence talks about a difficult situation, however the passengers were able to complete the journey, thus the better choice to use is although which implies a contrast.
4. The day was very hot, however there was a fresh breeze in the evening.
Explanation: This sentence talks about a difficult situation, however there is a better situation in the evening, thus the better choice to use is however which implies a contrast.
5. Although the game was difficult, the team managed to win.
Explanation: This sentence talks about a difficult situation, however the team still managed to win, thus the better choice to use is although which implies a contrast.
6. His work wasnt perfect, however the employer was still very satisfied.
Explanation: This sentence talks about a difficult situation, however the employer was still satisfied, thus the better choice to use is however which implies a contrast.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.