Definition

In spite of; despite something that has been mentioned or is known.

Example

She decided to go for a walk, notwithstanding the rain.

Conversation

I really thought we would get rained out today.

Yeah, the forecast looked pretty bad, but we went anyway.

Exactly! Notwithstanding the weather, it turned out to be a great day.

It really did! I'm glad we decided to go.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In spite of something; even though something is true or happens.

Example

Notwithstanding the rain, we decided to go for a walk.

Conversation

I heard the concert was amazing, notwithstanding the rain.

Really? I thought the weather would ruin it.

It seems like the crowd enjoyed it anyway, though.

Definition

In spite of something; despite something.

Example

The event continued, notwithstanding the bad weather.

Conversation

Are you still planning to go hiking this weekend?

Yeah, I'm excited! I heard the view is amazing.

That sounds great, notwithstanding the weather forecast.

Root Explanation

Notwithstanding is formed from "not" (meaning negation) and "withstanding" (from "withstand" which is composed of "with-" (meaning against) and "standan" (Old English for to stand)). The word means to stand against something despite a negation or obstacle.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' as a negation and 'withstanding' as standing against something. This helps you remember that 'notwithstanding' means to stand firm despite obstacles.

Visually Confused Words