notwithstanding

American  

[not-with-stan-ding, -with-] / ˌnɒt wɪðˈstæn dɪŋ, -wɪθ- /

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

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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 British  

/ -wɪð-, ˌnɒtwɪθˈstændɪŋ /

preposition

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

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conjunction

1. despite the fact that; although

1. in spite of that; nevertheless

Synonym Usage

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.

Etymology

Origin of notwithstanding

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

Explanation

Notwithstanding means "in spite of something." Your boasts about having memorized the entire textbook and bribing the teacher with apples notwithstanding, you still managed to fail the final exam with flying colors. You don't have to look too closely at the word to be able to break it into three parts: not- + withstand (to successfully oppose or resist) + the participial ending -ing. In the most literal sense, notwithstanding actually means to successfully oppose or resist. Top-of-the-line wet-traction tires notwithstanding, the car still got stuck in the mud. Notwithstanding works just as well in a more figurative context. His reputation for charm and tact notwithstanding, he offended everyone in the room.

Example Sentences

Given that hostile history, Steyer would enter the runoff as a distinct underdog, notwithstanding the many added millions he is poised to spend.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

The high stakes and the wall-to-wall television advertisements notwithstanding, the race has never really caught fire, and the public has seemed decidely unenthusiastic -- even if the vote could have national implications.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

But the Optiq is a screaming bargain, as well-built, capable, comfortable and connected as anything at its price point, its EV-ness notwithstanding.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 16, 2026

Here’s the headline: You are swapping higher monthly costs as a homeowner, notwithstanding the likely appreciation in the value of your property, for lower monthly costs as a renter.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 19, 2026

Mr. Dell Duke wasn't friend material because he was the wrong age and, female lemurs notwithstanding, we appeared to have absolutely nothing in common.

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan