despite the problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "despite the problems" is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a clause that provides an explanation, exception, or contrast to the main sentence. For example, you could say, "I was able to finish the project on time despite the problems I encountered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite the problems, food often gets through.

The New York Times

Yet despite the problems, this is genuinely interesting history.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite the problems, some participants mentioned examples of good practice.

The Guardian

Despite the problems, it's a very, very workable relationship".

The New York Times

Would I use these services again, despite the problems?

The New York Times

Despite the problems she came with, Anna "has been a real gift," her mother said.

The New York Times - Health

He says his job is not in jeopardy, despite the problems of the last few weeks.

The New York Times

Despite the problems, some members are still fans of the destination club concept.

The New York Times

Despite the problems, some move to replace or supplement the gas tax seems inevitable.

The New York Times

BUT despite the problems, Ms. Williams and Mr. Lynch were interested.

The New York Times

Despite the problems, however, the overall surgical performance was classified as safe.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "despite the problems", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what positive outcome or action occurred in spite of those difficulties. This provides context and emphasizes resilience or success against the odds.

Common error

Avoid using "despite the problems" when the issues completely negate the possibility of success or progress. The phrase implies that something positive still occurred, even with the challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "despite the problems" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a clause by introducing a contrasting element. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, indicating its established role in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "despite the problems" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something has occurred or persisted even when facing difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide usage. It functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying clauses to indicate contrast and highlighting resilience. While primarily found in news and media, it's also suitable for encyclopedic and scientific contexts. Remember to use it when the positive outcome is evident and not entirely negated by the issues. Some alternatives are "in spite of the difficulties", "notwithstanding the issues", and "even with the challenges".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in spite of the difficulties

This alternative uses "difficulties" instead of "problems", maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

notwithstanding the issues

The term "notwithstanding" offers a more formal tone while conveying the same sense of something happening regardless of existing issues.

even with the challenges

This phrase replaces "problems" with "challenges", suggesting a slightly more proactive or resilient approach to dealing with the difficulties.

regardless of the setbacks

Using "setbacks" emphasizes temporary impediments or delays, adding a nuance of overcoming obstacles.

in the face of adversity

This option highlights a more significant level of difficulty, implying that the situation involves considerable hardship.

despite the hitches

Substituting "problems" with "hitches" implies minor, temporary difficulties.

with all the complications

This version focuses on the complexity and intricacy of the difficulties involved.

even considering the snags

The word "snags" suggests small, unexpected obstacles that need to be resolved.

after accounting for the obstacles

This phrase emphasizes the process of acknowledging and dealing with the difficulties.

for all the downsides

This alternative focuses on the negative aspects or disadvantages that exist in the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "despite the problems" in a sentence?

Use "despite the problems" to show a contrast between difficulties encountered and a positive outcome or continued action. For example, "Despite the problems, the project was completed on time."

What are some alternatives to "despite the problems"?

You can use alternatives like "in spite of the difficulties", "notwithstanding the issues", or "even with the challenges" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "in spite of the problems" instead of "despite the problems"?

Yes, "in spite of the problems" is a perfectly acceptable and nearly interchangeable alternative to "despite the problems". Both phrases indicate that something occurs even though there are difficulties.

What's the difference between "despite the problem" and "despite the problems"?

"Despite the problem" refers to a single, specific issue, while "despite the problems" refers to multiple or a collection of issues. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the number of difficulties involved.