Despite that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Despite that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation that follows a statement or fact. Example: "The weather was terrible; despite that, we decided to go for a hike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even despite that win in 1970.

The Guardian - Sport

Markets finished the week higher despite that.

Forbes

He's some horse to win despite that.

BBC

Despite that, I love you.

The New Yorker

"Despite that we will continue with determination".

The New York Times

Despite that, Mr Ramdev is dangerous politically.

Independent

Despite that sour note, he signed, anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite that shift, French-German differences persist.

The New York Times

Despite that, the two remain Facebook friends.

The New York Times

Despite that, you're gripped.

The Guardian - Books

Despite that, this decision.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Despite that", ensure that the contrast is clear and logical. The sentence following "Despite that" should present a situation that one wouldn't normally expect based on the information previously provided.

Common error

Avoid using "Despite that" when the following statement is a direct consequence of the previous one. This phrase is meant to highlight a contrast, not a direct result. For example, don't use it if the second clause simply elaborates on the first, but instead when there is a surprise element or a change in expectation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Despite that" serves as a transitional phrase, indicating a contrast or concession. It connects two clauses, where the second clause presents a situation that is unexpected or surprising given the information in the first clause. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Despite that" is a versatile transitional phrase used to introduce contrast or concession. It is grammatically correct and very common across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is widely used and accepted. When writing, remember that "Despite that" connects two clauses, and the second one should present an unexpected or surprising outcome given the first. For alternatives, consider using "in spite of that", "nevertheless", or "however", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In spite of that

Common synonym; slightly more emphatic than "Despite that".

Notwithstanding that

Formal alternative; emphasizes the idea of something not being affected by a previous statement.

Regardless of that

Emphasizes that the preceding statement does not change the outcome.

Nevertheless

More formal and literary alternative.

Nonetheless

Similar to 'nevertheless', but slightly less formal.

Even so

Shorter and more conversational alternative.

Even with that

Highlights the coexistence of two opposing factors.

With that said

Similar to 'that being said', introduces a contrasting point.

That being said

Indicates a shift in perspective or topic after acknowledging a previous point.

However

Simple and direct way to introduce a contrast.

FAQs

How can I use "Despite that" in a sentence?

Use "Despite that" to introduce a contrasting idea following a previous statement. For instance: "The weather was terrible; "despite that", we decided to go for a hike".

What's the difference between "Despite that" and "In spite of that"?

"Despite that" and "In spite of that" are often interchangeable, serving to introduce a contrast. Some perceive "In spite of that" as slightly more emphatic, but the difference is minimal.

Can I use "However" instead of "Despite that"?

Yes, "However" can often replace "Despite that", though it's more direct and less nuanced. "Despite that" acknowledges the preceding situation, whereas "However" simply introduces a contrast.

What are some formal alternatives to "Despite that"?

Formal alternatives include "nevertheless", "nonetheless", and "notwithstanding that". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing.