Ever get bored of using the word “however” over and over again? You’re not alone! It’s a good word, but let's be real — it can get a little old. Good news? There are lots of other words that mean the same thing but sound cooler or fit better depending on the vibe. So let's freshen up your writing with 17 of the best synonyms for “however”. Each one comes with a short, easy explanation you'll actually remember. Ready? Let's do this!
1. Nevertheless
This word sounds kind of fancy, right? But it’s super useful. You use “nevertheless” when something is true even though the opposite seems like it should be true. For example, you were tired. Nevertheless, you finished the race. It's great when you’re showing contrast without sounding too simple. It keeps things smooth, but with a twist. It’s a little formal, so it’s perfect for writing that needs to sound a bit serious or smart. Just remember, it’s saying, “Even with that said, this still happened.” Give it a try next time you write something with contrast.
2. Still
“Still” is a small word with big meaning. It’s great when you’re showing something that keeps going or happens anyway, even when it seems like it shouldn’t. Like, “It was raining. Still, we went outside.” It’s short and to the point. It doesn’t sound too formal or too casual — it’s just right. You can use it in essays, emails, or even texting. It helps keep things moving in your writing. It’s simple, but super strong. Try swapping out “however” for “still” and see how your sentence feels better right away.
3. Yet
“Yet” is one of those tiny words that adds a twist. It works great when you’re about to say something unexpected. Like, “She was nervous. Yet, she nailed the presentation.” It feels smooth, quick, and natural. You can use it in formal writing or in everyday talk. It shows contrast without being wordy. “Yet” is friendly and easy to use, and it sounds better when you’re keeping things light. It also makes your sentence feel like it’s going somewhere. Give “yet” a shot the next time you’re showing a surprise or contrast.
4. Though
“Though” is cool because it works almost anywhere in a sentence. You can start with it, end with it, or drop it in the middle. For example, “It was cold. We went swimming, though.” It softens the contrast and makes things feel natural. It's like saying, "Even with that in mind…" but with fewer words. You can also use it at the start: “Though it was cold, we still went swimming.” It sounds casual and smooth. It's great for both talking and writing. Try it out and see how easy it makes your sentence flow.
See Also: 21 Best Synonyms for “If Possible”
5. On the other hand
This phrase is perfect when you're comparing two things. It's like you're weighing options or showing two sides of something. Like, “I love pizza. On the other hand, it’s not great for my diet.” It adds balance to your writing. It’s not super formal, but it works great in essays or emails. It also makes it clear you’re looking at another point of view. It's longer than "however," but it sounds more thoughtful. When you want to sound like you've thought about both sides, this one's a winner.
6. Even so
“Even so” is one of those phrases that adds a surprise. It means "despite what was just said, this still happened." Like, “It was late. Even so, we went out for ice cream.” It has a calm, thoughtful feel to it. You can use it in stories, blogs, or any kind of writing where you want to show contrast but keep it friendly. It's smooth and easy, and people understand it right away. It's also a little softer than "however," which makes it perfect when you don't want to sound too strong.
7. That said
“That said” is a cool, relaxed way to change directions in your writing. It's like saying, "Okay, but also…" For example, “The movie was long. That said, it was really good.” It sounds thoughtful and mature, but not too formal. You'll often see it in blogs, articles, and smart emails. It helps you bring in another point without sounding confusing. It's friendly but clever, and it makes your writing feel more like a conversation. Give it a shot when you want to sound smart but chill at the same time.
8. Nonetheless
“Nonetheless” is a bit like "nevertheless," but just a tiny bit more relaxed. It means the same thing — something still happens, even though it shouldn’t. For example, “The task was hard. Nonetheless, she did a great job.” It's formal enough for essays or reports, but not too stiff. It adds a nice flow when you’re writing about challenges or surprises. It’s not a word people use much when talking, but it works great in writing. Try it when "however" feels too plain and you want a bit more polish in your sentence.
9. Even though
“Even though” is great for showing that two things don't really match. It's a way to say, "This happened, even if it doesn't seem like it should have." Like, “Even though it was cold, they went swimming.” It's easy to use and sounds natural in any kind of writing. It's also super clear. No one has to guess what you mean. You're saying there's a contrast, but you're not being dramatic about it. This one is great for stories or just writing like you talk. Try it next time you want to show a twist.
10. Although
“Although” is another smooth way to show contrast. It works just like "even though," but it's a little more formal. You might say, “Although I was tired, I finished the book.” It's good for essays or writing where you want to sound a bit serious. It shows that two ideas don't quite match, but they still go together somehow. It's a simple way to say, "This, but also that." It keeps your writing clean and clear. If "however" feels too stiff, "although" gives you a more flexible option that still sounds smart.
11. But
"But" is one of the easiest and most common ways to show contrast. It's short, simple, and gets straight to the point. For example, “I wanted to sleep, but I had work to do.” It connects two ideas that don't match perfectly. You'll see it everywhere — in books, blogs, texts, and even speeches. It's not fancy, but it's powerful. You don't always need long words. Sometimes, the best choice is the one that's easiest to understand. "But" is a classic, and it does the job better than most.
12. Then again
“Then again” is a fun way to flip your thought. It's like saying, "Wait, maybe the opposite is true." For example, “I was going to skip the party. Then again, it might be fun.” It sounds casual and friendly, almost like you’re thinking out loud. It’s great in blog posts, stories, or anything where you want to sound real and relaxed. It's not a word for essays or reports, but for personal writing, it's perfect. Use it when you're unsure, or when you want to add a new idea gently.
13. Albeit
"Albeit" is a fancy little word that means "although." It's usually followed by a short phrase. Like, “The meal was delicious, albeit a bit salty.” It's a cool way to mix contrast into one sentence without making it too long. It's great for formal writing or when you want to sound sharp. You don't hear it in casual talk much, but it shines in essays, reviews, or thoughtful blog posts. It's a tiny word, but it packs a punch. Try it when you want to say "although" but with style.
14. Regardless
“Regardless” means something happens anyway, no matter what. Like, “He was late. Regardless, we started without him.” It's a strong word that shows you’re moving forward even if the situation isn't ideal. It works well in both speaking and writing. It's kind of bold — it says, "I'm doing this anyway." You can use it when you’re showing determination or making a point. It’s a little more forceful than "however," so use it when you really want to make it clear that nothing's stopping the action.
15. Conversely
"Conversely" is great when you want to flip a thought in a more serious way. Like, “Most people love the beach. Conversely, I prefer the mountains.” It's a little formal, so it’s perfect for essays or reports. It shows that the next idea is the exact opposite of the one before. It's not super common in casual writing, but it works really well when you want to sound clear and thoughtful. If you're comparing two ideas and want to look smart doing it, "conversely" is a strong choice.
16. Anyhow
"Anyhow" is casual, fun, and easy to use. It's kind of like saying, "Whatever the case…" For example, “It started raining. Anyhow, we kept playing.” It sounds relaxed and friendly, like you're talking to a buddy. You won't see it much in formal writing, but it's perfect for blogs, stories, or emails to friends. It helps you keep things moving without sounding too serious. Use "anyhow" when something doesn't go as planned, but you go with it anyway. It's great for adding personality to your writing.
17. Be that as it may
"Be that as it may" is a bit old-school, but still super useful. It means, "Even if that's true, here's what I think." For example, “The hotel was expensive. Be that as it may, it was worth every penny.” It sounds formal, but not too stuffy. You'll find it in thoughtful writing, essays, or even stories. It adds a calm, steady feel to your words. It's not something people say out loud often, but it gives your writing a nice, smooth vibe. Try it when you want to show respect and contrast at the same time.
I hope this list helped you see how many cool ways there are to say “however”. Each word gives a slightly different feel, so you can choose one that fits your style. Using different words keeps your writing fresh, fun, and clear. Plus, it makes you sound more confident and creative. Next time you write, don't stick to the same old words — mix it up a little. You'll be surprised how much better your writing sounds when you use the right synonym at the right time.