despite anything

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "despite anything" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when you want to express that something occurs regardless of any circumstances or objections, but it is better to use it in a more specific context. Example: "Despite anything that may come our way, we will continue to pursue our goals."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Police said they had no evidence connecting them to the stock-exchange bombing or to any of the others, despite anything their president might believe.

The Economist

England plan to unleash a squad of thoughtful footballing RoboCops, capable of enforcing their will and skill despite anything the rest of the world can throw at them.

The Guardian - Sport

It begins with fond memories, then darkens, turning into an increasingly desperate offer of reconciliation and healing, a plea to stay together despite anything.

The New York Times - Arts

"Most of my patients were going to be fine despite anything I did, and if they were going to die — well, that was probably going to happen despite me, too," he writes.

The New York Times - Books

Expect any replacement to feature specialist music appealing to older listeners, actually strengthening Radio 2's case for public money, and making switching Chris Evans to the breakfast show, despite anything you may have read elsewhere, a crime with no victims.

The Guardian

And despite anything you might hear to the contrary, there is no right place to run.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Despite disavowing anything that smacks of utopia or revolution, he seems to have persuaded himself that sectarian warfare in the Middle East, the re-emergence of the far right in Europe, enmity between China and Japan, as well as other awkward features of the contemporary scene, can be left behind if only we learn to tell ourselves new stories.

The Guardian - Books

Sean Gandert of Paste was appreciative towards Banks' role, noted that Jon Bon Jovi's appearance was "completely unnecessary but pretty awesome nonetheless", and concluded that Liz and Jack's plotlines were "particularly strong" and that despite not anything "new" occurring here "it was largely just some fun, top-form 30 Rock".

Wikipedia

Despite her anything-goes brashness, Ms. Mourey cares very much about her position as a role model.

The New York Times

And do they change anything, despite their simulacrum roles?

The Guardian - Opinion

It is extremely rare for the bureau to resolve anything, despite the show of accountability.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "despite anything" when you want to emphasize resilience or persistence in the face of any possible challenge. Be specific about what 'anything' encompasses to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "despite anything" as a generic filler. Replace it with more specific phrasing that clarifies the challenges or obstacles being overcome for improved clarity.

Linguistic Context

Despite anything functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a contrasting element. It signifies that a particular action, state, or outcome persists regardless of potential hindrances or opposing forces. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase often appears to emphasize resilience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "despite anything" is a prepositional phrase used to express that something occurs or remains true regardless of any potential obstacles. Ludwig AI indicates it is acceptable in general writing, but can sometimes be stylistically awkward. It's more frequent in News & Media and Wiki contexts. Alternatives like "regardless of everything" or "in spite of everything" may offer more clarity or formality. Avoid overuse, and ensure the context makes it clear what 'anything' refers to for the clearest communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of everything

Emphasizes a lack of concern for all possible hindering factors.

in spite of everything

Highlights that something persists even when faced with numerous adversities.

no matter what happens

Directly states that future events will not alter the present course.

notwithstanding all obstacles

Formally acknowledges the existence of barriers but asserts their irrelevance.

even with all that

Indicates acceptance of surrounding circumstances while maintaining a different outcome.

against all odds

Emphasizes the improbability of success but highlights the achievement nonetheless.

come what may

Suggests an attitude of readiness for any eventuality.

even so

Implies a preceding condition does not change the outcome

all the same

Indicates that the stated fact remains true despite what has been mentioned.

in any case

Shifts focus to a conclusion that holds true under all conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "despite anything" in a sentence?

Use "despite anything" to show that something is true or will happen, even if other things try to stop it. For example, "We will finish the project, "despite anything" that comes our way."

What's a more formal alternative to "despite anything"?

Alternatives like "notwithstanding all obstacles" or "regardless of circumstances" provide a more formal tone compared to "despite anything".

Is "in spite of anything" the same as "despite anything"?

"In spite of anything" and "despite anything" are very similar, both expressing that something happens even when other things might prevent it. "In spite of everything" is a very close synonym.

When should I avoid using "despite anything"?

Avoid using "despite anything" when it makes the sentence vague or unclear. If the 'anything' isn't obvious, it's better to specify what you're overcoming. Otherwise, consider more specific alternatives like "in the face of adversity".