The word "notwithstanding that" is commonly misspelled due to its lengthy composition. It is important to note that "notwithstanding" is spelled with only one "t" and the "ing" ending, followed by the conjunction "that". The correct pronunciation of "notwithstanding" is /ˌnɑt.wɪθˈstændɪŋ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word is defined as meaning "in spite of" or "despite", and is often used to introduce a contrasting idea or fact.
"Notwithstanding that" is a phrase used to introduce a contrasting or contradictory statement, often used to emphasize a fact or condition that contradicts or is contrary to what has been mentioned previously. It is a conjunction that signifies a concession or exception to a preceding statement.
The term "notwithstanding that" is typically employed to acknowledge and give recognition to a certain set of circumstances or facts that may appear to contradict or challenge an existing proposition or belief. It indicates that someone is aware of the given situation but is nevertheless asserting or arguing for the truth of their original statement. It suggests that despite the presence of certain conditions that could potentially undermine a particular claim or argument, the speaker or writer still considers their point to be valid or true.
It signifies a level of resilience or determination to maintain one's position despite contrary evidence or circumstances. The phrase is often used to introduce a clause or sentence that brings attention to a competing viewpoint or exception without necessarily refuting the previous claim entirely.
In brief, using "notwithstanding that" in speech or writing demonstrates an acknowledgement of an opposing viewpoint, while also highlighting the importance and validity of the initial statement or argument. It offers a nuanced way to acknowledge and contend with contradictions or exceptions in a persuasive or logical manner.
The etymology of the phrase "notwithstanding that" can be traced back to the combination of two separate components: "notwithstanding" and "that".
1) "Notwithstanding":
The word "notwithstanding" originated from the Old English phrase "not wiðstandan", where "wiðstandan" means "to stand against" or "to withstand". Over time, "wiðstandan" evolved into the Middle English term "noutwithstondinge" before ultimately becoming "notwithstanding" in Modern English. The term denotes an idea of "in spite of" or "despite".
2) "That":
The word "that" is a conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause, offering additional information or clarification about the main clause of a sentence. It has roots in Old English and has remained relatively unchanged in its usage throughout the evolution of the English language.