nevertheless
Americanadverb
Usage
What are other ways to say nevertheless?
The adverb nevertheless means “in spite of that” or “all the same.” How is it different from the words but, still, however, and yet? Find out on Thesaurus.com.
Etymology
Origin of nevertheless
First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; replacing natheles, notheles natheless; see never, the 2, less
Compare meaning
How does nevertheless compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
A funny-looking adverb that appears to be made up of three words squished together, nevertheless means “even so" or "all the same.” It’s likely that nevertheless evolved from the Middle English neverthelater, a word with the same sense of “despite anything to the contrary” and “notwithstanding.” You might say of your siblings, "Sure we bicker and get sick of each other sometimes. Nevertheless, they’re family and I love them."
Vocabulary lists containing nevertheless
Unit 1: Telling Details
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Charlotte's Web
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The Perks of Being a Wallflower
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Although Donald Trump has acknowledged being aware of the term “America First” and its historical context, he has nevertheless called it “a brand-new modern term. I never related it to the past.”
From Salon • May 21, 2026
Under fire for what critics say is inadequate protection of its young user base, Roblox nevertheless remains incredibly popular.
From Slate • May 17, 2026
Eric Trump does not hold an official government position, nevertheless he accompanied the president on his trip to China this week.
From Barron's • May 15, 2026
Returning to the Castro Theatre following the venue’s restoration, the 29th edition of the event features lesser-known fare that nevertheless makes the case for the medium’s enduring appeal and influence on modern moviemaking.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026
A prince must nevertheless make himself feared in such a way that he will avoid hatred, even if he does not acquire love; since one can very easily be feared and yet not hated.
From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
