Words / C1

notw-ith-STAND-ing/ˌnɒtwɪθˈstændɪŋ/

Notwithstanding means in spite of (formal): notwithstanding the delay; the delay notwithstanding. Despite and in spite of are everyday; nevertheless (already in the dictionary) is an adverb (“even so”). Withstanding is resisting — a lookalike. Do not drop it into a text message where despite would do.

Meaning

In spite of (formal); also used after the noun it governs.

Examples

• “Notwithstanding the apology, the embargo still applied.”
• “Notwithstanding the apology, the embargo still applied to the PDF.”
• “Despite is everyday; notwithstanding can follow its noun (the rain notwithstanding). Nevertheless = even so (adverb), not a preposition here.”

Good to know

Despite (formal). Can follow the noun. Everyday: despite / in spite of. Contrast: nevertheless (adverb). Mix-up: withstand (resist).

Near in meaning

despite

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