somehow
word
/ˈsəmˌhaʊ/
SUHM-how
/sˈʌmhaʊ/
SUHM-how
Definition
Used when you do not know or do not say exactly how something happens, is done, or will be done. It can also mean for a reason that is not clear.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in spoken and written English. Often appears with future or problem-solving ideas: 'We'll somehow manage', 'I somehow forgot'. It can express uncertainty, effort, or a surprising result. Do not confuse it with 'someone' or 'something'.
Spanish: de alguna manera - por alguna razónPortuguese (BR): de algum jeito - de alguma forma - por algum motivoPortuguese (PT): de algum modo - de alguma forma - por alguma razãoChinese (Simplified): 以某种方式 - 不知怎么地Chinese (Traditional): 以某種方式 - 不知怎麼地Hindi: किसी तरह - न जाने कैसेArabic: بطريقة ما - لسببٍ ماBengali: কীভাবে যেন - কোনোভাবেRussian: как-тоJapanese: どういうわけか - なんとかVietnamese: bằng cách nào đóKorean: 어떻게든 - 왠지Turkish: bir şekildeUrdu: کسی طرحIndonesian: entah bagaimana
Example Sentences
We will somehow get home before dark.
basic
She somehow opened the jar.
basic
I somehow feel better today.
basic
Don't worry, we'll somehow make it work.
natural
I somehow forgot her birthday, and I feel awful.
natural
He somehow always knows when I'm busy.
natural