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

“The Paper,” “Animal Control,” “St. Denis Medical,” “Going Dutch” and “Shifting Gears” are among those currently airing and streaming and, minor stylistic variation notwithstanding, they have more in common than not.

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Any other presidential decision would have been criminal: That is basic democratic morality, notwithstanding unceasing criticism from the high-minded.

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Given the resultant uncertainty, it is no surprise investors have shunned healthcare stocks, notwithstanding miraculous medical advances and the ever-growing demand for care.

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His age notwithstanding, he had an impeccable pedigree: Stanford University undergrad, a stint as Milton Friedman’s research assistant, Harvard Law, a rapid rise at Morgan Stanley, an appointment to the National Economic Council, and more.

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

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