Notwithstanding
Meaning: “Notwithstanding” is a versatile English word primarily used as a preposition, adverb, or conjunction to mean “in spite of,” “despite,” or “nevertheless.” It introduces a contrasting idea, emphasizing that something occurs regardless of an obstacle.
Pronunciation: In Received Pronunciation: /ˌnɒt.wɪðˈstæn.dɪŋ/ (stress on the third syllable: not-with-STAN-ding). In General American: /ˌnɑːt.wɪðˈstæn.dɪŋ/. The word rhymes with “standing” but starts with “not with.”
Morphology: Derived from Middle English “notwithstandinge,” it’s a compound of “not” + “withstanding” (from “withstand,” meaning to resist or oppose). Over time, it evolved from a participial phrase into a fixed adverbial form. It’s invariable—no changes for tense, number, or gender.
Grammar Notes: As a preposition or postposition, it follows the pattern: [main clause] notwithstanding [noun phrase]. As an adverb or conjunction, it connects clauses, often at the start or middle of a sentence. Avoid confusion with the conjunction form “notwithstanding that,” which is somewhat archaic but still used in formal writing.
Etymology: From Middle English, equivalent to “not” + “withstanding.” It parallels similar constructions like “notwithstanding” in older texts, emphasizing opposition.
Interesting Facts: This word dates back to the 14th century and appears in Shakespeare’s works, such as in Hamlet: “Notwithstanding the poverty of her dress, she was beautiful.” It’s common in legal English, like “notwithstanding clauses” in Canadian law, which override other provisions. Fun fact: Its length (14 letters) makes it a mouthful for non-native speakers, but it’s synonymous with simpler phrases like “despite.”
Tips to Learn It Easier: Break it down: “not” + “withstanding” = ignoring resistance. Mnemonic: Think of “not with standing” as “not stopping despite standing against.” Practice by replacing “despite” in sentences with “notwithstanding” to build familiarity. Listen to British podcasts or read formal texts like news articles to hear it in context.
Cultural/Contextual Features: Predominantly formal or literary, it’s rare in casual speech—opt for “but” or “however” instead. In American English, it’s more common in writing than speaking. Culturally, it evokes elegant, old-fashioned prose, often in historical novels or legal documents.
Examples:
- Simple: Notwithstanding the rain, we went for a walk.
- Medium: She succeeded in her exams, notwithstanding her lack of sleep.
- Complex: Notwithstanding the fact that the team had trained for months and faced numerous setbacks along the way, they ultimately clinched the championship in a thrilling final match.
Synonyms: Despite, in spite of (preposition); nevertheless, nonetheless, however, yet (adverb); although, even though (conjunction). Antonyms: Because of, due to, thanks to. Common Combinations: Notwithstanding that (conjunction); notwithstanding clause (legal term); all the same notwithstanding.
Mini-Tasks:
- Make a sentence: Write one using “notwithstanding” to contrast weather and an outdoor event.
- Find a synonym: Replace “notwithstanding” in the simple example above with a synonym and explain why it fits.
- Explore: Read a paragraph from a classic novel (e.g., Dickens) and identify how “notwithstanding” adds formality.