despite all odds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'despite all odds' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to describe a situation where someone or something is able to achieve something remarkable, even though they faced difficult or difficult obstacles. For example, "John passed his exams despite all odds, proving that hard work and dedication are worth the effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Now, this is definitely a "despite all odds" situation.

Huffington Post

But in its romantic purpose, its gallantry despite all odds, it is a very southern mission.

The Economist

Or the bit in The Great Gatsby where Nick realises, despite all odds, Jay's "extraordinary capacity for hope".

The Guardian - Opinion

"Huddle together in the fertile micro-niches where there is still some warmth, and persist despite all odds".

The New York Times

And despite all odds, the venerable Preservation Hall, one of the world's most famous clubs, is still well worth the $5 admission.

The New York Times - Travel

But I think the best bit about the kite runner is its sense of fate and justice, of good overcoming evil in the end, despite all odds.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Are the trains a proxy for the by rights chaotic, despite-all-odds very functional city, or do they enable a sort of suspension?

The New Yorker

Are the trains a proxy for the — by rights chaotic, despite-all-odds very functional — city, or do they enable a sort of suspension?

The New Yorker

Despite all the odds, the Brits Abroad genre of travel writing has proved to be inexhaustible.

The New York Times - Books

But the song's message is to keep going, fanatically, despite all the odds.

The Guardian

Despite all this, odds are that terms limits will not be repealed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "despite all odds", ensure the context clearly establishes the challenges or difficulties faced.

Common error

Don't use "despite all odds" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations where success seemed genuinely impossible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "despite all odds" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating a circumstance of significant adversity or improbability. Ludwig's examples show it frequently introduces a surprising or unexpected outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

18%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "despite all odds" is a frequently used prepositional phrase that signals a situation where a positive result occurs against considerable challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalence in diverse writing contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, as well as Formal & Business settings, the phrase serves to emphasize unexpected successes. Related alternatives include "against all expectations" and "in the face of adversity", providing nuanced variations. To use it effectively, highlight truly improbable positive outcomes and avoid overuse in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

triumphing against the odds

Adds a sense of victory and accomplishment.

against all expectations

Focuses on surpassing what was predicted or anticipated.

defying expectations

Stresses the act of going against what was thought likely.

in spite of everything

Highlights the presence of overwhelming challenges.

beating the odds

A more informal way of suggesting the query meaning.

in the face of adversity

Highlights the presence of hardship and difficulty.

overcoming obstacles

Emphasizes the act of conquering specific barriers.

rising above challenges

Suggests an elevation or transcendence of difficulties.

weathering the storm

Uses a metaphor to describe enduring through a difficult period.

making it against the grain

Implies that the person succeeds going against accepted norms.

FAQs

How can I use "despite all odds" in a sentence?

Use "despite all odds" to highlight an unexpected positive outcome in the face of significant challenges. For example, "Despite all odds, he managed to win the race".

What are some alternatives to "despite all odds"?

You can use alternatives like "against all expectations", "in the face of adversity", or "triumphing against the odds" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "despite all the odds" the same as "despite all odds"?

Yes, "despite all the odds" and "despite all odds" are often used interchangeably, although "despite all odds" is slightly more concise.

When is it appropriate to use "despite all odds" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "despite all odds" when you want to emphasize that a particular outcome was highly improbable or unexpected given the circumstances. This highlights the magnitude of the achievement or the surprising nature of the result.