sentence connector: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1 (Very High)Formal to Neutral. Most common in written, academic, and professional discourse; can appear in careful speech.
Quick answer
What does “sentence connector” mean?
A word used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement, indicating that what follows contrasts with or modifies what came before.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A word used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement, indicating that what follows contrasts with or modifies what came before.
It functions as a conjunctive adverb or adverbial to mark a transition, contradiction, concession, or unexpected result, linking clauses or sentences to show a logical relationship.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major grammatical differences. Slight preference in AmE for placing it after the subject ("We, however, disagree") and in BrE for placing it at the start of the clause. Punctuation rules are identical.
Connotations
Equally formal in both variants. May be perceived as slightly more academic in AmE casual speech.
Frequency
Equally frequent and essential in both varieties for formal writing.
Grammar
How to Use “sentence connector” in a Sentence
[Independent Clause]. However, [Contrasting Clause].[First Clause]; however, [Second Clause].[Clause Part 1], however, [Clause Part 2].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sentence connector” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- The initial results, however, were misleading.
- She managed, however, to complete the task.
American English
- The proposal, however, was rejected.
- We must, however, consider the cost.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in reports and proposals to introduce counter-arguments or limitations: 'The strategy is sound; however, the timeline is unrealistic.'
Academic
Crucial for constructing nuanced arguments and acknowledging opposing evidence: 'The theory is widely accepted. However, recent data challenges its core premise.'
Everyday
Used in discussion to introduce a differing opinion or complicating fact: 'I'd love to come. However, I'm already busy that night.'
Technical
Used in specifications or analyses to state exceptions or contrasting conditions: 'The system operates normally. However, under extreme load, performance may degrade.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sentence connector”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sentence connector”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sentence connector”
- Using it without proper punctuation (e.g., 'I like it however I can't afford it').
- Using it as a direct substitute for 'but' in very short, informal clauses ('I'm tired, however I'll go').
- Starting too many consecutive sentences with it in writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'But' is a coordinating conjunction used within a single sentence. 'However' is a conjunctive adverb (or sentence adverb) used to link ideas between sentences or independent clauses, and is more formal. It requires different punctuation.
It is most flexible at the start of a second clause/sentence. It can also be placed after the subject, or at the end of a clause for slight emphasis. Its position changes the rhythm but not the core meaning.
Yes, absolutely. This is very common in formal writing. Remember to use a comma after it when it begins the second clause (e.g., '...was successful. However, the costs were high.').
Almost always. When 'however' means 'no matter how' (as in 'However hard he tried...'), no comma follows immediately. In its primary role as a sentence connector, it is nearly always followed by a comma.
A word used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement, indicating that what follows contrasts with or modifies what came before.
Sentence connector is usually formal to neutral. most common in written, academic, and professional discourse; can appear in careful speech. in register.
Sentence connector: in British English it is pronounced /haʊˈev.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /haʊˈev.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “be that as it may (similar concessive function)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
HOW did you EVER think that? HOW-EVER introduces the contrasting thought you 'ever' had.
Conceptual Metaphor
A DETOUR or U-TURN in the road of an argument.
Practice
Quiz
Which punctuation is MOST correct when 'however' is used to connect two independent clauses?