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
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Charlotte's Web
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
Could he nevertheless turn up as a surprise?
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026
The researchers have nevertheless begun moving SS-H2 toward large scale production.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 11, 2026
Gloria, vamping and posing and speaking exclusively in italics, is a semi-ridiculous figure who nevertheless gives the otherwise all-male club the sparkle it needs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026
"There are in some countries, but not all across the world," he cautioned, adding that there nevertheless remained "huge opportunities" for the company.
From Barron's ● Jul. 30, 2026
The apartment was spacious for a one-bedroom but was nevertheless cramped, evidence of his aunt Hila’s preference for maximalism.
From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny
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.
