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.
Shak.
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, conj. Nevertheless;
notwithstanding; yet; still; though; as, I shall not oppose your
design; I can not, however, approve of it.
In your excuse your love does little say;
You might howe'er have took a better way.
Dryden.
Syn. -- However, At least,
Nevertheless, Yet. 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 conscience.
Nevertheless denotes that though the concession be fully made,
it has no bearing of the question; as, nevertheless, we must
go forward. Yet 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, yet will I not deny thee; though he slay me, yet
will I trust in him. Cf. But.
