notwithstanding this is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "notwithstanding this is" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used to introduce a contrast or exception, but it requires a more complete structure to be clear and effective. Example: "Notwithstanding this is a challenging situation, we must proceed with our plans."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Eyebrows notwithstanding, this is not realism.

The New Yorker

British nationalism notwithstanding, this is no bad thing.

The New York Times

Because, £105m spend notwithstanding, this is what is missing.

The Guardian - Sport

These omissions notwithstanding, this is a magnificent achievement.

The Guardian - Books

These weaknesses notwithstanding, this is an important, accessible book on a crucial subject.

The New York Times

LA PAZ, Bolivia — The slogans and posters of Che Guevara notwithstanding, this is not Havana circa 1969, nor Managua, 1979.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Phelps notwithstanding, this was a young swim team, with a lot of veteran medalists (Natalie Coughlin, Tyler Clary) not making it through trials.

The Guardian - Sport

The glee of The Artist people notwithstanding, this was a serious Academy awards for a serious time.

The Guardian - Film

Notwithstanding, this was balanced in part by the lower expenses for the anticoagulant.

Annals of Intensive Care

But if it is peace of mind you are after (the bends, running out of air and forgetting which way is up notwithstanding- this is still diving after all), Lake Malawi is neither complex nor challenging.

The Guardian - Travel

Notwithstanding security, this is the most significant issue affecting Israel today.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "notwithstanding", ensure it's part of a complete clause that clearly identifies what is being set aside or contrasted. For example, use "The difficulties notwithstanding, this is a worthwhile endeavor" instead of just "Notwithstanding this is".

Common error

Avoid using "notwithstanding" as a standalone phrase followed immediately by "this is". Always include a noun or a noun phrase specifying what you are setting aside. For example, instead of "Notwithstanding this is", consider "Its shortcomings notwithstanding, this is".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "notwithstanding this is" functions as a transitional expression intended to introduce a contrast or exception. However, as Ludwig AI indicates, it's often perceived as grammatically awkward or incomplete, necessitating a clearer, more structured formulation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "notwithstanding this is" is frequently used to introduce a contrast or exception. However, Ludwig AI highlights that it's considered grammatically incorrect in standard written English and that it often requires a more complete structure for clarity. While commonly found across various sources, including News & Media and Science, its grammatical ambiguity warrants careful attention. Alternatives such as "despite this" or "regardless of this" offer cleaner, more concise ways to convey the intended contrast. It is better to include the element being set aside explicitly, making for a much clearer and grammatically sound sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite this

Focuses directly on the contrast, omitting the "withstanding" element and creating a more succinct expression.

regardless of this

Emphasizes that what follows remains true or valid even considering the preceding information.

in spite of this

Highlights the surprising or unexpected nature of the contrast.

even so

Provides a simpler, more direct way to indicate a concession.

nevertheless

A formal synonym that maintains the contrast but can sound more polished.

however

Offers a concise transition to a contrasting statement.

yet

A brief conjunction introducing a contrasting element.

that being said

Signals a shift in perspective or a qualification of the previous statement.

nonetheless

Similar to 'nevertheless', but can carry a slightly stronger emphasis on the contrast.

with that said

Indicates a transition after acknowledging a previous point.

FAQs

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

Ensure "notwithstanding" introduces a noun or noun phrase, clearly stating what is being conceded or set aside. For example: "His lack of experience notwithstanding, he's the best candidate."

What are some alternatives to "notwithstanding this is"?

Consider alternatives like "despite this", "in spite of this", or "regardless of this" for clearer and more concise expressions. For instance, use "despite this" to directly contrast the statement.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "notwithstanding this is"?

Generally, starting a sentence directly with "notwithstanding this is" is considered grammatically awkward. It's better to include the element being set aside explicitly. A more correct usage would be: "Those challenges notwithstanding, "this is" a watershed moment."

What's the difference between "notwithstanding" and "despite"?

"Notwithstanding" is a formal term that introduces a concession, while "despite" serves the same purpose but is generally considered less formal and more straightforward. Both can introduce a contrast, but "notwithstanding" often requires a more complete clause to avoid awkwardness.