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Synonyms

nevertheless

American  
[nev-er-thuh-les] / ˌnɛv ər ðəˈlɛs /

adverb

  1. nonetheless; notwithstanding; however; in spite of that.

    a small but nevertheless important change.


nevertheless British  
/ ˌnɛvəðəˈlɛs /
  1. in spite of that; however; yet

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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."

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Vocabulary lists containing nevertheless

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.

Skepticism nevertheless persists among the roughly 50 staffers.

From The Wall Street Journal • 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

He might be a little greyer at the temples, but the prospect of becoming a dual international this summer has nevertheless stirred something in him.

From BBC • May 11, 2026

But its founder and generations of devoted viewers saw its enduring value nevertheless.

From Salon • May 8, 2026

Kathy tried to get along with them nevertheless, and her family tried too.

From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers

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