Definitions
- Used to show that something happened or is true even though there were problems or difficulties. - Used to indicate that someone did something despite a particular situation or circumstance. - Used to express a contrast between two things, where one thing is unexpected or surprising given the other.
- Used to indicate that something is true or exists despite other things that might be expected to prevent it. - Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or modifies something previously said. - Used to mean 'nevertheless' or 'in spite of'.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are used to show that something is true or exists despite other factors.
- 2Both can be used as prepositions or conjunctions.
- 3Both words express a contrast between two things.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Despite is more commonly used than notwithstanding in everyday language.
- 2Formality: Notwithstanding is more formal than despite.
- 3Position: Despite is usually placed before a noun or pronoun, while notwithstanding is often used at the beginning of a sentence.
- 4Meaning: Notwithstanding can also mean 'nevertheless' or 'in spite of', while despite does not have this additional meaning.
Remember this!
Despite and notwithstanding are synonyms that express a contrast between two things. Despite is more commonly used and means 'even though' or 'in spite of'. Notwithstanding is more formal and can also mean 'nevertheless' or 'in spite of'. While both words are similar in meaning, they differ in usage, formality, position, meaning, and length.
