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sin embargo means however — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 7, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

sin embargo

expression • /[seen em-BAR-go]/

however

Example:

Quería ir, sin embargo no pude.

I wanted to go, however I couldn't.

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🧠 What does sin embargo mean?

Sin embargo is a Spanish adverbial phrase that means "however," "nevertheless," or "nonetheless." It's used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what was just said, expressing a surprising or unexpected turn. Think of it as a way to signal a shift in thought or present an opposing idea.

📚 Extra examples

  • Me encanta viajar. Sin embargo, no tengo mucho tiempo libre.
    I love to travel. However, I don't have much free time.
  • El restaurante estaba lleno. Sin embargo, conseguimos una mesa.
    The restaurant was full. Nevertheless, we managed to get a table.
  • Dijo que vendría. Sin embargo, no apareció.
    He said he would come. However, he didn't show up.
  • Estudié mucho para el examen. Sin embargo, no saqué buena nota.
    I studied hard for the exam. Nonetheless, I didn't get a good grade.
  • El clima era malo. Sin embargo, decidimos ir a la playa.
    The weather was bad. However, we decided to go to the beach.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'however' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'however' in Spanish is 'sin embargo.'
How do you pronounce 'sin embargo' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'seen em-BAR-goh.' The stress falls on the 'bar' syllable.
How do you use 'sin embargo' in a sentence?
'Sin embargo' usually comes after a semicolon or period, separating it from the previous clause. Sometimes, especially in spoken Spanish, it can be used after a comma, but using a semicolon or period is generally preferred for clarity.
What is the English translation of 'sin embargo'?
'Sin embargo' translates to 'however,' 'nevertheless,' or 'nonetheless' in English.
Does 'sin embargo' change for gender or number?
No, 'sin embargo' is an invariable phrase. It stays the same regardless of the gender or number of the surrounding words.
Is 'sin embargo' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'sin embargo' is very frequent in both written and spoken Spanish. It's a useful and natural way to connect contrasting ideas.
Does 'sin embargo' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'sin embargo' has a straightforward meaning and no slang connotations or double meanings.
Is 'sin embargo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, 'sin embargo' is used in the same way and with the same meaning across Spain and Latin America.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "sin embargo"

Synonyms: no obstante, a pesar de eso, con todo

💡 Did You Know?

While "sin embargo" is the most common way to express "however," there are other options like "no obstante," "a pesar de eso," and "con todo." These synonyms have slightly different nuances, so exploring them can enrich your understanding of expressing contrast in Spanish.

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