Though vs. However

conjunctions of concession conjunctive adverbs however though

'Though' and 'however' function as contrasting words. In this lesson, we will learn their uses, differences, and similarities.

"Though" vs. "However" in the English grammar

What Is Their Main Difference?

The main difference between 'though' and 'however' is in their parts of speech. 'Though' is a conjunction while 'however' is an adverb.

Parts of Speech

'Though' is a subordinating conjunction. It is used to connect an independent clause with a dependent clause.
'However' is a conjunctive adverb. It is used to join two clauses.

We were happy though we were worried about Nina.

We were happy; however we were worried about Nina.

Meaning

'Though' and 'however' show that something has happened in spite of a hurdle. To put it simply, they show the meaning 'but' and 'despite.' Watch:

He smiled though he was depressed.

He smiled; however he was depressed.

Position in a Sentence

'Though' can be placed at the beginning and the middle of the sentence. Note that 'though' introduces the contrast clause. When we use 'though' at the beginning of a sentence, the contrast clause gets a comma.
'However' can be used at the middle of the two sentences or clauses. 'However' also introduces the contrast clause or sentence. It is placed at the beginning of the contrast clause or sentence and has a comma right after it.

I was scared though I remained calm.

Though I remained calm, I was scared.

I was scared. However, I remained calm.

Formality

'Though' is informal and it is mainly used in spoken English. 'However' is formal and it can be used in both written and spoken English.

Comments

Although vs. Albeit

'Although' and 'albeit' are conjunction. 'Albeit' can sometimes replace 'although.' In this lesson, we will learn more about them.

Although vs. Nonetheless

'Although' and 'nonetheless' are synonyms. In this lesson, we will discover their similarities and differences.

Though vs. Even Though

'Though' and 'even though' may confuse learners as they are visually similar. In this lesson, we will discover their similarities and differences.

Whether vs. If

'Whether' and 'if' are conjunction. They can be used interchangeably. In this lesson, we will learn their uses, similarities, and differences.

Whether vs. Whether Or Not

'Whether' can be accompanied with 'or not.' In this case there is a small distinction between 'whether' and 'whether or not' which we will learn in this lesson.

Whether vs. Rather

'Whether' and 'rather' are confused by earners. In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

Download LanGeek app

Langeek