Tip of the Week: However

“However” (meaning “nevertheless”) is a conjunctive adverb, which serves as a transition between two independent sentences. Other conjunctive adverbs include “hence,” “therefore,” “moreover” and “consequently.” The following rules apply to all conjunctive adverbs.

Unlike the coordinating conjunctions “and,” “but” and “so,” “however” requires a full stop, not just a comma.

Correct Examples:

1. I would attend the event. However, I am too busy. (Note the period before, and the comma after “however.”)

2. I would attend the event; however, I am too busy.

3. I would attend the event. I am too busy, however. (Note the comma before “however.”)

4. I would like to attend the event. According to my assistant, however, I am too busy. (Note that “however” is set off by commas.)

Incorrect Example:

I would attend the event, however I am too busy. (Note that “but” would work in this case.)

Really picky stuff:

Remember that “however” also can mean “whatever way.” In this case, the above rules do not apply.

Example: However you prefer to repay your loan is fine with me.

Published proceeds

I just cracked open a new book last night, a fine selection of chick lit that has been languishing in a box since my last birthday. "American Girls About Town" promised short stories from 14 great American women authors, with proceeds from the book sales benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Certainly the proceeds are not going toward retaining high-quality copy editors because the second sentence dazzles us with this perfectly executed dangling modifier: "Originally published in the United Kingdom and Ireland, a portion of the proceeds from each book sold were given ..."

I am guessing that it is rather counterproductive to publish even a portion of your proceeds, were that even possible. But let's overlook this little point -- and the unnecessary use of the passive voice -- and concentrate on the bigger picture: that needy children are benefiting from this collection of stories about sex and shopping. You go, girl!

Take my assistant, please!

I was about to delete this little gem from my spam filter, but I decided to save it for your enjoyment.

When I read this, I just couldn't shake the image of Mrs. Sarah Frank desperately longing for my assistant with the force of eight exclamation marks. If only I had an assistant to give you! (!!!!!!!)