notwithstanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "notwithstanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It means to do something despite a particular situation or circumstance. For example, "We will go ahead with the project notwithstanding its high cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Notwithstanding the decision made this afternoon it should be noted that the application for production orders was made under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), NOT the Official Secrets Act (OSA).

The Guardian

Notwithstanding my concern that Eurovision is becoming less Eurovision, that was a very satisfying end to the competition 2014.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Notwithstanding its new more detached, regulatory role (the one Grade apparently couldn't face playing) the Trust under Grade's chairmanship would broadly have been at one with a vision of the BBC that sees popularity and public purpose as good bedfellows not mortal enemies.

The Guardian - Opinion

Notwithstanding our differences of opinion, which remain, we worked closely and fruitfully together to advance the important processes of that time – curbing the arms race, European developments, German unification and reversing Iraq's aggression in the Middle East.

The Guardian

Notwithstanding, there has been low-level carping in the media – and especially in blogs – from those who refuse to forget that she gave concerts under the Nazi occupation and that she was noticeably anxious at the end of the war, fearful of being accused of sleeping with the enemy in every way.

The Guardian

Notwithstanding that Australia had been, um, settled for 60,000 years, it's quite a feat of dissembling to substitute occupation with investment.

The Guardian - Opinion

Notwithstanding disquiet or outright opposition by members such as former senator Ron Boswell, Anderson was sent to sound out John Howard.

The Guardian

Goal-line dramas notwithstanding, football management is about squeezing out incrementally more performance per salary pound.

The Economist

eMarketer, another research firm, projects that online advertising in America will grow by 23% this year, economic troubles notwithstanding, because the measurability of the medium is too compelling for marketers to ignore.

The Economist

This means that, a good accent, rhythm and grammar notwithstanding, the intermediate-to-advanced learner is likely to flail discussing the value-added tax, running style or camera lenses.Your columnist knows from experience: I have flailed on all of the above in languages I would otherwise say I had spoken well for years.

The Economist

Asia notwithstanding, America needs to raise its interest rates but to do so would hurt Asian debtors and, by drawing more capital out of Asian markets, worsen the region's difficulties.So here is another monetary-policy dilemma.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "notwithstanding" primarily in formal writing or legal contexts to maintain a professional tone. This word is considered rather sophisticated so it should be used with care to avoid sounding pretentious.

Common error

Avoid using "notwithstanding" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound stilted or unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives like "despite" or "although" in such cases.

How to use

Learn how to use "notwithstanding" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "notwithstanding" is to act as a concessive preposition or adverb. It introduces an element of contrast or exception to a preceding statement. Ludwig AI examples show its usage in legal, news, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "notwithstanding" is a versatile term functioning primarily as a concessive preposition or adverb. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal contexts such as legal documents, news reports, and academic papers. While it's a correct term, it should be employed with care to avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives include "despite", "although", and "nevertheless". As shown by Ludwig examples, it’s seen most often in News & Media and Formal & Business domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite the fact that

Replaces "notwithstanding" with a more explicit phrase indicating concession.

in spite of the fact that

Similar to "despite the fact that", offering a direct substitution for expressing concession.

even though

A more common and less formal way to introduce a contrasting idea.

although

A simpler and more versatile alternative to "notwithstanding".

regardless of

Emphasizes that something is not affected by a particular condition.

irrespective of

A more formal synonym of "regardless of", conveying the same meaning.

nevertheless

An adverbial conjunction that introduces a statement that contrasts with or overrides something preceding it.

however

A common adverbial conjunction indicating contrast or concession.

in any event

Expresses that something will happen no matter what the circumstances are.

be that as it may

A more idiomatic expression meaning "despite what has just been said".

FAQs

How can I use "notwithstanding" in a sentence?

"Notwithstanding" can be used as a preposition or adverb to mean "despite" or "nevertheless". For example, "Notwithstanding the difficulties, we persevered" or "The evidence was compelling; notwithstanding, the jury acquitted the defendant."

What are some alternatives to "notwithstanding"?

Some alternatives to "notwithstanding" include "despite", "although", "nevertheless", "however", and "in spite of". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "notwithstanding" at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to begin a sentence with "notwithstanding", particularly when used as an adverb. It introduces a statement that contrasts with or qualifies what has already been said.

What is the difference between "notwithstanding" and "not withstanding" (two words)?

"Notwithstanding" is the correct form as a single word, functioning as a preposition, adverb, or conjunction. "Not withstanding" as two words is generally incorrect in this context.