Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say However in Spanish: Sin Embargo
Sin Embargo · conjunction / adverb · seen ehm-BAHR-goh
The most common Spanish translation for 'however' is 'sin embargo,' a conjunctive phrase used to introduce a contrast or contradiction. 'No obstante' serves the same purpose with a slightly more formal tone. Both expressions function as discourse connectors that link opposing ideas within a text or conversation.
Pronounce 'sin embargo' as seen ehm-BAHR-goh. The stress falls on the second syllable of 'embargo.' For 'no obstante,' say noh ohbs-TAHN-teh.
Quería ir al parque; sin embargo, empezó a llover.
I wanted to go to the park; however, it started to rain.
However in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for however, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| sin embargo | however | seen ehm-BAHR-goh | Default, widely understood |
| no obstante | however | slightly more formal, common in written Spanish | |
| aunque | however | used when 'however' can be replaced by 'although' |
How Native Speakers Use Sin Embargo
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Contrasting expectations
El restaurante era caro; sin embargo, la comida no era buena.
The restaurant was expensive; however, the food was not good.
Sharing a disappointing dining experience.
Formal writing
Los resultados fueron positivos. No obstante, se requieren más estudios.
The results were positive. However, more studies are needed.
Writing an academic conclusion.
Everyday contrast
No tengo mucho tiempo libre; sin embargo, intento leer cada noche.
I don't have much free time; however, I try to read every night.
Describing a personal reading habit.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Sin Embargo
Using pero instead of sin embargo
Incorrect: Es inteligente. Pero, no estudia suficiente.
Correct: Es inteligente. Sin embargo, no estudia suficiente.
While 'pero' means 'but,' it typically joins clauses within a sentence, whereas 'sin embargo' is used to connect separate sentences or introduce a stronger contrast.
Placing sin embargo incorrectly
Incorrect: Sin la comida embargo era deliciosa.
Correct: Sin embargo, la comida era deliciosa.
'Sin embargo' is a fixed phrase and cannot be split; it must appear as a complete unit, usually at the beginning of the clause it introduces.
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See Sin Embargo used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using sin embargo in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Quería ir al parque; sin embargo, empezó a llover. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
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Common Questions About However in Spanish
- Is 'sin embargo' one word or two?
- The phrase 'sin embargo' consists of two separate words — the preposition 'sin' (without) and the noun 'embargo' (seizure or impediment) — but they function as a single conjunctive unit.
- Can I start a sentence with 'sin embargo'?
- Starting a sentence with 'sin embargo' is not only acceptable but common in both spoken and written Spanish, usually followed by a comma before the main clause.
- What is the difference between 'sin embargo' and 'aunque'?
- While 'sin embargo' connects two independent contrasting statements, 'aunque' (although/even though) introduces a concessive subordinate clause within the same sentence structure.