Understanding "Notwithstanding": A Sophisticated Tool for Contrast
If you have ever encountered a sentence that sounds formal, authoritative, or perhaps even a bit literary, you may have crossed paths with the word notwithstanding. While it might look like a mouthful at first glance, it is actually a highly efficient way to express contrast. Whether you are aiming to write a professional email or analyze a complex academic text, notwithstanding allows you to acknowledge a conflicting fact while still emphasizing your main point.
Deconstructing the Word
You do not have to look too closely at the word to break it into three distinct parts: not- + withstand (to successfully oppose or resist) + the participial ending -ing. In its most literal sense, it describes something that stands firm despite being challenged. When you use it, you are essentially saying that a certain obstacle or condition was not enough to stop the action you are describing.
Consider these examples:
- Top-of-the-line wet-traction tires notwithstanding, the car still got stuck in the mud.
- His reputation for charm and tact notwithstanding, he managed to offend everyone in the room.
Grammar Patterns and Usage
Notwithstanding is versatile because it functions as both a preposition and an adverb. Understanding where to place it in a sentence is the key to mastering it.
As a Preposition
When used as a preposition, notwithstanding is almost always followed by a noun or a noun phrase. It usually appears before or after the noun it governs. It conveys the meaning of "in spite of" or "despite."
- Before the noun: Notwithstanding the rain, the outdoor concert went ahead as planned.
- After the noun: The high ticket prices notwithstanding, the stadium was packed with excited fans.
As an Adverb
As an adverb, it functions to show that something is true despite what has just been mentioned. In this position, it often appears at the end of a sentence or clause.
- The project was behind schedule. The team worked through the weekend, the exhaustion notwithstanding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake learners make is treating notwithstanding like a conjunction (such as "although"). Because "although" requires a subject and a verb to follow it, people often try to write, "Notwithstanding that he was tired, he worked." This is grammatically incorrect. Instead, you should say, "Notwithstanding his fatigue, he worked."
Remember:
- Do not follow notwithstanding with a full clause (subject + verb).
- Do follow it with a noun, a pronoun, or a gerund phrase.
- If you want to use it with a clause, use the phrase notwithstanding the fact that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "notwithstanding" formal?
Yes, it is significantly more formal than "despite" or "in spite of." It is frequently used in legal documents, academic writing, and high-level journalism. Using it in casual text messages might make you sound a bit stiff.
Can I use "notwithstanding" at the start of a sentence?
Absolutely. Starting a sentence with it is a great way to frame an argument by setting up the concession immediately. Example: Notwithstanding the initial difficulties, the startup became a massive success.
Is "notwithstanding" the same as "nevertheless"?
Not quite. "Nevertheless" is an adverb that links two independent ideas ("I was tired; nevertheless, I went to the gym."). Notwithstanding acts as a preposition that modifies a specific noun phrase.
Do I need a comma with it?
When notwithstanding is used at the beginning or middle of a sentence, it is standard practice to set it off with commas to ensure the sentence remains clear and readable.
Conclusion
Notwithstanding is a powerful addition to your vocabulary. While it may have a formal tone, it is a precise tool for showing that a specific challenge or reality did not prevent an outcome from occurring. By keeping an eye on your sentence structure—ensuring you follow it with a noun rather than a full clause—you can use this word to add sophistication and clarity to your writing.