notwithstanding little

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "notwithstanding little" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It can be used to indicate that something is true or valid despite a small amount or minor issue, but it is better to use it in a more complete context. Example: "Notwithstanding little evidence, the theory gained traction among researchers."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Notwithstanding, little is known about the extent to which CNV contributes to genetic variation in cattle.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Notwithstanding that there is still little evidence on how climate change will affect economic systems and which sectors should be given priority when considering adaptation policies, the article argues that the agricultural and livestock sector, in particular, might well be an area of priority.

Latin American Economic Review

(Japan, Norway, and — cartoons notwithstanding — polite little Denmark forbid the burning of foreign flags but not their own).

The New Yorker

Notwithstanding a little outbreak of rhapsodic invocation at the end ("O my characters... ..), this small poem is rhythmically clear-cut: "...Chicken foot.

The Guardian - Books

But the administration, Mr. O'Neill's comments notwithstanding, did little to distance itself from the Thomas bill, which has come to embody the Republican position on economic stimulus.

The New York Times

To be sure, the brothers and those who know them say their different professional strengths as well as personal styles are pronounced -- notwithstanding the little of each that has rubbed off on the other.

The New York Times

The announcement from Bear Stearns notwithstanding, there was little evidence of impending financial crisis.

The New Yorker

As a whole, he comes off as someone who, major label record deal notwithstanding, has seen little of the world.

The New York Times - Arts

The city's denials notwithstanding, there is little question for Ms. Nonnon as to what caused her daughter's death.

The New York Times

Armenian apricot horn notwithstanding, there's little doubt that the touching exuberance of the songs shines through more clearly than before.

The Guardian - Music

These successes, notwithstanding, a strange little micro-meme emerged in 2013: Barack Obama was somehow worse than or even comparable to Richard Nixon.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "notwithstanding little", ensure the sentence clearly establishes what is being conceded despite the small amount. Clarity is key, as the phrase can sound somewhat formal or unusual to some readers.

Common error

Avoid using "notwithstanding little" in informal contexts. The phrase's formality can clash with casual language, making your writing sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "despite the small amount" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial phrase functioning as a concessive modifier. It indicates that something is true or valid despite a small or negligible amount of something else. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show the phrase used to introduce a contrast or qualification.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "notwithstanding little" is a relatively uncommon expression used to concede a minor point before introducing a more significant idea. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically acceptable but can sound somewhat formal. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. For clearer and less formal communication, consider using alternatives such as "despite the small amount" or "in spite of the scarcity". While the phrase is valid, ensuring its clarity and appropriateness within the given context is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite the limited

Replaces "notwithstanding little" with a more common and direct phrase, focusing on the limited quantity of something.

in spite of the scarcity

Emphasizes the lack of something, while still acknowledging its impact.

even with the small amount

Highlights that something occurs despite a small quantity.

regardless of the minimal

Similar to "despite", but with a slightly stronger sense of ignoring the small quantity.

although there's a paucity of

Uses more formal language to indicate a lack of something.

despite the exiguity of

Replaces "little" with a less common synonym, 'exiguity'.

even given the limited extent

Focuses on the restricted scope or degree of something.

with little regard to the lack

Highlights the disregard for the deficiency of something.

the slightness notwithstanding

Inverts the original structure, placing emphasis on 'slightness'.

small though it may be

Uses a more descriptive and simplified way of indicating something is small or minimal.

FAQs

How can I use "notwithstanding little" in a sentence?

Use "notwithstanding little" to concede a minor point before presenting a contrasting or more significant idea. For example, "Notwithstanding little evidence, the theory gained traction among researchers."

What's a simpler alternative to "notwithstanding little"?

You can use phrases like "despite the small amount" or "in spite of the scarcity" for greater clarity and less formality.

Is "notwithstanding little" considered formal?

Yes, "notwithstanding little" carries a formal tone. Consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase, and opt for simpler alternatives in casual settings.

What does "notwithstanding" mean in the phrase "notwithstanding little"?

In this context, "notwithstanding" means "in spite of" or "despite". It indicates that something is true or valid even though there is a small or negligible amount of something else.