However, Usage - Tricky one!

Is it true?

However followed by a comma - suggests a contrast.

However which is not followed by a comma- does not suggest a contrast? It means in whatever manner?

I don’t think it is true; however, in the second case, as you’ve mentioned, the nuance is usage, not necessarily a contrast, imo.

However in the sense of ‘no matter how’ is used as a relative adverb or an adjective.
Examples:

  1. However gently you correct him, Peter always takes offense. (adverb)
  2. Merry was reluctant to take the risk, however small. (adjective)
  3. However you look at it, you can’t criticize that. (relative adverb)

However - whether followed by a comma or no comma - will always be a contrast?