The word "how" can be used in many different ways, depending on the context. Here are some of the most common meanings of "how":
In what way? This is the most common meaning of "how." It is used to ask about the method or manner in which something is done. For example, you might ask "How do you make a cake?" or "How did you solve that math problem?"
To what extent? This meaning of "how" is used to ask about the degree or amount of something. For example, you might ask "How far is it to the beach?" or "How much does this cost?"
In what condition? This meaning of "how" is used to ask about the state or condition of something. For example, you might ask "How are you feeling?" or "How is your car running?"
For what reason? This meaning of "how" is used to ask about the cause or reason for something. For example, you might ask "How did you get so angry?" or "How did that happen?"
In addition to these common meanings, "how" can also be used in a variety of other ways, depending on the context. For example, it can be used to express surprise, disbelief, or frustration. For example, you might say "How could you be so careless?" or "How did I not see that coming?"
The meaning of "how" will always depend on the context in which it is used. However, the meanings listed above are some of the most common and important uses of this versatile word.