VocabDictionary
🇬🇧English to English[not-with-stan-ding]

notwithstanding

/ˌnɒt.wɪðˈstæn.dɪŋ/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.preposition

In spite of; despite; without being prevented by.

Example Sentences:
  • Notwithstanding the heavy rain, the outdoor concert proceeded as scheduled.
  • The team won the championship, notwithstanding their numerous injuries throughout the season.
2.adverb

Nevertheless; however; in spite of that.

Example Sentences:
  • He was exhausted; notwithstanding, he finished the report before midnight.
  • The evidence was circumstantial; the jury convicted him notwithstanding.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “notwithstanding”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 14th century as a compound of 'not' + 'with' + 'standing'. It functions as a literal translation of the Old French 'non obstant', which itself is a calque of the Latin 'non obstante' (ablative absolute of 'non obstare'), meaning 'not hindering' or 'not standing in the way'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Break it down: 'Not' + 'with' + 'standing'. Imagine something is 'not standing' in the way of your progress, even though it is present.

Frequently Asked Questions About “notwithstanding

1. What is the meaning of “notwithstanding” in English?

In English, notwithstanding (preposition) is defined as: “In spite of; despite; without being prevented by.”.

2. How do you use “notwithstanding” in a sentence?

Notwithstanding the heavy rain, the outdoor concert proceeded as scheduled.

3. What are English synonyms of “notwithstanding”?

Common synonyms include:nevertheless,despite,nonetheless,although

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “notwithstanding”?

Formed in the 14th century as a compound of 'not' + 'with' + 'standing'. It functions as a literal translation of the Old French 'non obstant', which itself is a calque of the Latin 'non obstante' (ablative absolute of 'non obstare'), meaning 'not hindering' or 'not standing in the way'.