despite what

USAGE SUMMARY

'despite what' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is typically used to introduce a contrast between two statements, ideas, or facts. For example, "Despite what you may have heard, the new restaurant is actually quite good."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite what mothers want.

The New York Times

Despite what my friends say.

The Guardian - Travel

"He's still quite handsome, despite what happened".

The New Yorker

"I accept you, despite what you did".

The New Yorker

Despite what everyone says, Ukip's real targets are Tory voters.

Independent

We insist on seeing their humanity, despite what they've done.

The New Yorker

"There is a lot of talent despite what people think.

Independent

Despite what others thought, I never thought they were collaborators".

The New York Times - Arts

Iran was incredibly welcoming, despite what people told me.

Independent

Despite what my name suggests, I am Puerto Rican.

The New York Times

-- America is a strong country -- despite what the cynics say.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "despite what" to directly contradict or challenge a commonly held belief or statement. It adds a tone of mild defiance or correction.

Common error

Avoid using "despite what" when you intend to offer a slight modification or exception to a statement. The phrase implies a more substantial disagreement or contrast.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "despite what" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a contrast or contradiction to a preceding statement or assumption. It serves to set up a counterpoint, suggesting that the information that follows should be considered even if it goes against conventional wisdom or previous assertions. Ludwig examples confirm its role in presenting an opposing view.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "despite what" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that introduces a contrast or contradiction. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and serves to challenge, correct, or qualify a preceding statement. While it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse communication styles. Remember to use it when you want to express a disagreement or provide an alternative perspective, and avoid using it for minor modifications or exceptions. Consider alternatives like "regardless of what" or "although" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of what

This alternative emphasizes the lack of importance of the preceding statement.

notwithstanding what

This is a more formal way of expressing 'despite what'.

in spite of what

Similar in meaning, this phrase highlights the unexpected nature of the situation given the preceding statement.

even though

This alternative introduces a clause that contrasts with the main clause.

although

Similar to 'even though', but slightly less emphatic.

irrespective of what

This emphasizes that the preceding statement does not affect the outcome.

without regard to what

This phrase focuses on ignoring the preceding statement.

contrary to what

This emphasizes a direct opposition to the preceding statement.

however

This is a simple transition word to introduce a contrasting statement.

yet

Another simple transition word indicating a contrast.

FAQs

How to use "despite what" in a sentence?

Use "despite what" to introduce information that contradicts a previously stated or commonly held belief. For example, "Despite what you might think, it's not that complicated."

What can I say instead of "despite what"?

You can use alternatives like "regardless of what", "notwithstanding what", or "in spite of what" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "despite what" or "in spite of what"?

Both "despite what" and "in spite of what" are correct and largely interchangeable. The choice often comes down to stylistic preference, although "in spite of what" might be considered slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "despite what" and "although"?

"Despite what" introduces a contradiction to a specific statement, while "although" introduces a contrasting clause. "Despite what he says, don't believe him" challenges his statement directly. "Although he says that, don't believe him" acknowledges his statement while presenting a contrast.