1
Core logical function
Indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
Example
The route was longer; nonetheless, it proved safer during winter.
nonetheless
/ˌnʌnðəˈles/ · nun-thuh-LESSconcessive transition
Indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
Use nonetheless to express this relationship precisely: indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
What nonetheless Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Nonetheless, the two estimates agree within their margins of error.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The evidence is indirect but nonetheless worthy of consideration.
Use nonetheless Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The route was longer; nonetheless, it proved safer during winter.
Nonetheless, the two estimates agree within their margins of error.
The evidence is indirect but nonetheless worthy of consideration.
Precision Matters
Nonetheless overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
nonetheless
vs.Means indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
nevertheless
Means introduce a statement that remains true despite the preceding fact or difficulty.
nonetheless
vs.Means indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
even so
Means introduce a statement that remains true despite the preceding fact or limitation.
nonetheless
vs.Means indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
however
Means introduce a contrast, exception, or qualification to the preceding statement.
nonetheless
vs.Means indicate that a claim or action still holds despite what was just stated.
granted
Means accept that a point is true before introducing a qualification or counterargument.
Test nonetheless in Context
The positive assessment remains despite the practical difficulty.
1
The material is difficult to obtain. ___, its durability makes it valuable for conservation work.