despite this
She was tired; despite this, she finished her work.
She was tired, but she still completed her work.
without being affected by; in spite of
The weather was terrible; despite this, the event went ahead as planned.
The weather was bad, but the event still happened.
He had no experience; despite this, he was hired for the job.
He was inexperienced, yet he got the job.
Used to introduce a contrast between two situations. Often follows a statement of fact.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use in contrast
Use 'despite this' to show that something happens or is true even when there is a reason it might not. Example: 'The exam was difficult; despite this, she passed.'
Gold Rule
Contrast introduction
Always use 'despite this' to introduce a contrast with the previous statement. It cannot be used to introduce a cause or reason.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'despite' (contempt, scorn) via Old French 'despit' (scorn, spite), from Latin 'despectus' (a looking down on), past participle of 'despicere' (to look down on). The phrase 'despite this' evolved from the prepositional use of 'despite' meaning 'without being affected by'.
Usage Notes
Used in formal and academic writing to introduce a contrasting idea. Often appears at the beginning or end of a sentence. Avoid overusing it in informal speech.