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: because of, on account 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

sentence connector

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

Governments are dismantling encampments — and some are willing to use the notwithstanding clause to circumvent court rulings on their actions — as well as banning supervised drug consumption sites near day-care centres and schools.

From Salon

Should he win, he will take it as a popular verdict that he is above the law, notwithstanding anything in the Constitution.

From Los Angeles Times

Absent extraordinary vigilance and in many cases notwithstanding it, the election could turn on freakish events or even the fruits of a probably criminal scheme.

From Los Angeles Times

"He is out there doing his public service notwithstanding the health challenges he himself has had."

From BBC

On Nov. 5, millions of Californians will again cast their ballots for Trump, notwithstanding his obvious antipathy toward the state and its Democratic-leaning voters.

From Los Angeles Times