Despite this

USAGE SUMMARY

"Despite this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce alternative ideas, typically following mention of something which one might expect to be a hindrance. For example: "Despite this, the team still managed to win the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite this, his ability shone.

Independent

Despite this, though, Peter Hyman.

Independent

Despite this, inflation has fallen.

The Economist

Despite this, the coalition will hold together.

The Economist

Despite this, the waters are warming.

The New York Times

Despite this relief, the crisis intensified.

The Economist

Despite this provocation, war did not follow.

The New York Times - Books

Despite this, Ms. Tryon does not flag.

The New York Times

Despite this care, dangers are growing.

The Economist

Despite this negative picture, I am optimistic.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite this, Denton has never voted.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Despite this" to smoothly introduce a contrasting point that might seem unexpected given the previous information. It improves the flow of your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "Despite this" in very short or simple sentences where a conjunction like "but" would be more appropriate and less clunky.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of the phrase "Despite this" is to serve as a transitional marker, introducing a statement that contrasts with or seems unexpected given the preceding information. As Ludwig AI explains, it sets up an alternative view.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Despite this" is a versatile transitional phrase used to introduce a contrasting point following a previous statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in written English. While it maintains a generally neutral tone suitable for most contexts, consider more formal alternatives like "nevertheless" for academic or professional writing. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, as well as wiki sources. Remember to use "Despite this" to create a smooth flow in your arguments and avoid overuse in short, simple sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In spite of this

A direct synonym, using a prepositional phrase.

However

A very common and versatile alternative.

Nevertheless

A more formal synonym, often used in written contexts.

Nonetheless

Similar to nevertheless, but slightly less formal.

Even so

A simpler, more conversational alternative.

That being said

Signals a shift in perspective or a counterpoint.

Regardless

Emphasizes a lack of concern for the preceding statement.

Even with that

Emphasizes that something unexpected is true considering the previous statement.

All the same

Indicates that something remains true despite what has been said.

With all that

Similar in use to "despite this", but less common.

FAQs

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

"Despite this" is used to introduce a contrasting idea or fact following a statement. For example, "The weather was terrible. "Despite this", we had a great time".

What are some alternatives to "Despite this"?

Alternatives include "nevertheless", "however", "in spite of this", or "nonetheless". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "Despite this" formal or informal?

"Despite this" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, more formal alternatives like "nevertheless" might be preferred in academic or professional contexts.

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

"Despite this" and "in spite of this" are largely interchangeable. Some might perceive "in spite of this" as slightly more emphatic, but the difference is minimal.