Somehow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿค”
Add to dictionary

somehow

[หˆsสŒmหŒhaสŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in an unknown or unspecified way

In a way or by some means that is not known or is not specified. In a way that is not known or certain, somehow he managed to survive. In some way not made clear, somehow she had acquired a new dress. By some means not explained, somehow the door had been left unlocked.

Synonyms

by some means, for some reason, in some way.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
somehow

Given that it's repeated, the explanation remains the same as the first 'somehow'.

  • Somehow, she convinced them to change their mind
  • Somehow, the dog found its way back home
in some way

When referring to an unspecified manner or method of doing something.

  • We need to fix the issue in some way
  • He was involved in the project in some way, though I'm not sure how
by some means

When you are referring to an uncertain method or way to achieve something.

  • We need to secure the funding by some means
  • We'll have to reach the top of the mountain by some means
for some reason

When you want to indicate that there is an unknown or unspecified reason for something happening.

  • For some reason, the meeting was canceled without notice
  • For some reason, she felt nervous about the interview

Examples of usage

  • Somehow, she found the strength to keep going.
  • He managed to escape somehow.
  • Somehow, he always knows what to say.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Using this word can reflect a person's acceptance of unpredictability in life, indicating adaptability.
  • It showcases a positive cognitive bias where individuals focus on solutions rather than problems.

Literature

  • Commonly found in narratives to express surprise or unexpected twists in stories.
  • Authors often use the term to convey charactersโ€™ feelings of confusion or wonder at circumstances.

Pop Culture

  • Frequently appears in songs and movies when characters face unexpected challenges but find a way through them.
  • The use of this word often adds an element of relatable struggle, resonating with audiences.

Communication

  • People use this word in conversations to express their realization of an outcome without the need for a detailed explanation.
  • It can serve to create a sense of shared understanding in dialogues, emphasizing mystery and surprise.

Origin of 'somehow'

Main points about word origin

  • Originated from combining 'some' and 'how' in Middle English around the 15th century.
  • The term has evolved to encompass a sense of uncertainty or ambiguity in describing actions or outcomes.

The word somehow originated in the mid 16th century as a compound of 'some' and 'how'. It has been used in English to indicate a method, manner, or condition that is not known or specified.


See also: anyhow, however, howitzer, howl.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,978, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.