notwithstanding

[not-with-stan-ding, -with-]

preposition

1. in spite of; without being opposed or prevented by.

   Notwithstanding a brilliant defense, he was found guilty. She went to the game anyway, doctor's orders notwithstanding.

   Antonyms: on account of, because of

conjunction

1. in spite of the fact that; although.

   It was the same material, notwithstanding the texture seemed different.

adverb

1. nevertheless; anyway; yet.

   We were invited notwithstanding.

notwithstanding

/ -wɪð-, ˌnɒtwɪθˈstændɪŋ /

preposition

1. (often immediately postpositive) in spite of; despite

conjunction

1. despite the fact that; although

1. in spite of that; nevertheless

Word History and Origins

Origin of notwithstanding¹

1350–1400; Middle English (preposition, adverb, and conjunction); not, withstand, -ing ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of notwithstanding¹

C14: _not + withstanding, from Old English withstandan, on the model of Medieval Latin non obstante, Old French non obstant

Synonym Study

Notwithstanding, despite, in spite of imply that something is true even though there are obstacles or opposing conditions. The three expressions may be used practically interchangeably. Notwithstanding suggests, however, a hindrance of some kind: Notwithstanding the long delay, I shall still go. Despite indicates that there is an active opposition: Despite procrastination and disorganization, they finished the project. In spite of implies meeting strong opposing forces or circumstances that must be taken into account: She succeeded in spite of many discouragements.

Example Sentences

Sordid circumstances notwithstanding, the Nazis made a highly choreographed spectacle of Wessel’s death.

From Salon

So it is for the musician themselves, who all began as fans, and the ones highlighted here took it seriously, youthful indiscretions notwithstanding.

From Los Angeles Times

The planned community is probably Orange County’s chief cultural contribution, notwithstanding regulations that govern decisions like the color you can paint your house.

From Los Angeles Times

Thus, when the rights of persons are violated, ‘the Constitution requires redress by the courts,’ notwithstanding the more general value of democratic decision making.

From Salon

And where the earlier shows, notwithstanding soap operatic long arcs, are fundamentally episodic, “Tony & Ziva” is a serial story, stretched over 10 episodes.

From Los Angeles Times