Words / B2

SUMH-ow/ˈsʌmhaʊ/

Somehow means in some way, although you do not know how; also for some unexplained reason: somehow unsealed; somehow manage. In some way is the plain twin. The script was somehow unsealed. Mix-up: somewhat means rather (next entry); anyhow is more informal. Do not use somehow as a substitute for a method in a write-up.

Meaning

In some way, although you do not know how; also for some reason.

Examples

• “The script was somehow unsealed before midday, the incident form said.”
• “They somehow finished the practical without the usual kit, which is the unknown-how sense.”

Good to know

somehow + verb; somehow or other. Contrast: somewhat (rather). Trap: anyhow. Incident logs and narrative. Unknown method, not “slightly”.

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