1
Core relationship
Despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
Example
Notwithstanding the limited sample, the result merits further study.
notwithstanding
/ˌnɒtwɪðˈstændɪŋ/ · not-with-STAN-dingconcession phrase
Despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
Use notwithstanding to express this relationship precisely: despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
What notwithstanding Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The treaty remained in force, these objections notwithstanding.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Notwithstanding its cost, the instrument became widely used.
Use notwithstanding Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Notwithstanding the limited sample, the result merits further study.
The treaty remained in force, these objections notwithstanding.
Notwithstanding its cost, the instrument became widely used.
Precision Matters
Notwithstanding overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
notwithstanding
vs.Means despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
despite
Means without being prevented or changed by the factor named in the following noun phrase.
notwithstanding
vs.Means despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
in spite of
Means despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
notwithstanding
vs.Means despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
irrespective of
Means without being affected or determined by the factor named.
notwithstanding
vs.Means despite a stated fact, condition, or obstacle.
even though
Means introduce a true circumstance that might have been expected to prevent the main result but did not.
Test notwithstanding in Context
The reconstruction remains possible despite the missing material.
1
___ several missing records, historians can reconstruct the main sequence of events.