Though Vs However Sat Grammar Guide

Quick Links :

In the world of grammar, there are many nuances that can make or break the clarity of your writing. Two words that often get confused with each other are "though" and "however." Both are used to indicate a contrast or a surprising twist, but they have distinct differences in their usage and connotation.

The key to mastering the use of "though" and "however" lies in understanding their grammatical functions and the tone they convey.

Though:

"Though" is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause, which provides a contrasting idea to the main clause. It is often used to indicate a surprising or unexpected twist.

Example:

I wanted to go to the beach, though the weather was not cooperating.

In this example, "though" introduces the subordinate clause "the weather was not cooperating," which contrasts with the main clause "I wanted to go to the beach."

However:

"However" is an adverb that indicates a contrast or surprise. It is often used to begin a new sentence or clause, and it can be used to indicate a stronger contrast than "though."

Example:

I wanted to go to the beach. However, the weather was not cooperating.

In this example, "however" is used to begin a new sentence and indicates a stronger contrast between the two clauses.

Key differences:

• "Though" is a subordinating conjunction, while "however" is an adverb.
• "Though" is used to introduce a subordinate clause, while "however" is used to begin a new sentence or clause.
• "Though" indicates a milder contrast, while "however" indicates a stronger contrast.

When to use each:

• Use "though" when you want to indicate a surprising or unexpected twist, but the contrast is not too strong.
• Use "however" when you want to indicate a stronger contrast or surprise, and you want to begin a new sentence or clause.

Grammar tips:

• When using "though," make sure to use a comma after the subordinate clause to separate it from the main clause.
• When using "however," make sure to use a comma after the word to separate it from the rest of the sentence.
• Avoid using "though" and "however" in the same sentence, as it can create confusion.

Common mistakes:

• Using "though" and "however" interchangeably, without considering the grammatical function and tone.
• Using "though" or "however" to begin a sentence, when it's not necessary.
• Using "though" or "however" to indicate a mild contrast, when a stronger contrast is needed.

Practice exercises:

1. Fill in the blanks with either "though" or "however":

I wanted to go to the movies, ____________________ the tickets were too expensive.

2. Identify the grammatical function of "though" and "however" in the following sentences:

I went to the party, though I didn't feel like it. However, the party was more fun than I expected.

3. Rewrite the following sentences using "though" and "however" correctly:

I went to the beach, but the weather was not cooperating. I wanted to go to the movies, but the tickets were too expensive.

By mastering the use of "though" and "however," you can add nuance and clarity to your writing, and convey the intended tone and meaning to your readers.

Common SAT grammar mistakes:

• Misusing "though" and "however" is a common mistake on the SAT.
• Not using commas correctly with "though" and "however" can lead to confusion.
• Using "though" or "however" to begin a sentence, when it's not necessary, can make the sentence sound awkward.

SAT grammar tips:

• Read the sentence carefully and identify the grammatical function of "though" and "however."
• Use commas correctly with "though" and "however" to separate clauses.
• Avoid using "though" and "however" interchangeably, without considering the tone and meaning.

Practice questions:

1. Which of the following sentences uses "though" correctly?

A) I went to the party, though I didn't feel like it. B) I went to the party, however I didn't feel like it. C) I went to the party, but I didn't feel like it. D) I went to the party, so I didn't feel like it.

2. Which of the following sentences uses "however" correctly?

A) I wanted to go to the movies, however the tickets were too expensive. B) I wanted to go to the movies, though the tickets were too expensive. C) I wanted to go to the movies, but the tickets were too expensive. D) I wanted to go to the movies, so the tickets were too expensive.

Gallery of grammar guides:

FAQ: