In the sentence, what is the function of the word 'however'?

• A. A subordinating conjunction
• B. An interjection
• C. A conjunctive adverb
• D. A preposition

Answer: (C)

The word however functions as a conjunctive adverb that signals contrast between two independent clauses. It helps connect the ideas and shows that the second clause presents something different from or opposite to the first.

This use is different from a subordinating conjunction, which would introduce a dependent clause, and different from an interjection, which stands alone as a remark rather than linking two clauses. It also isn’t a preposition, since it doesn’t relate a noun to another noun.

A common form is to place a semicolon before however and a comma after it, as in “I planned to go; however, I stayed home,” which highlights the contrast between the two thoughts.