how

Universal Words adverb 1 in what way or manner: How does it work? * He did not know how he ought to behave. * I'll show you how to load the software. * 'Her behaviour was very odd.' 'How so?' * It's funny how (= that) people always remember him. * Do you remember how (= that) the kids always loved going there? * How ever did you get here so quickly? compareHOWEVER 2 used to ask about sb's health: How are you? * How are you feeling now? 3 used to ask whether sth is successful or enjoyable: How was your trip? * How did they play? 4 used before an adjective or adverb to ask about the amount, degree, etc. of sth, or about sb's age: How often do you go swimming? * I didn't know how much to bring. * How much are those earrings (= What do they cost)? * How many people were there? * How old is she? 5 used to express surprise, pleasure, etc: How kind of you to help! * How he wished he had been there! 6 in any way in which SYNHOWEVER: I'll dress how I like in my own house! IDIOMS how can / could you! (spoken) used to show that you strongly disapprove of sb's behaviour or are very surprised by it: Ben! How could you? After all they've done for us! * Ugh! How can you eat that stuff? how come? (spoken) used to ask the reason for sth: 'I think you owe me some money.' 'How come?' how do you do (becoming old-fashioned) used as a formal greeting when you meet sb for the first time. The usual reply is also How do you do? how's that? (spoken) 1 used to ask the reason for sth: 'I left work early today.' 'How's that (= Why)?' 2 used when asking sb's opinion of sth: I'll tuck your sheets in for you. How's that? Comfortable? * Two o'clock on the dot! How's that for punctuality!