Despite

This word is a preposition, so it needs a noun or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb) after it. You can say despite the heat or despite feeling tired. A very common mistake is adding of after it. Never say despite of. If you want to use a full sentence with a subject and verb, you must add the phrase the fact that. For example, despite the fact that it was late, we stayed. It sounds fancy, doesn't it?

Use it when you want to sound professional or precise. It is perfect for business emails when explaining results. You might say, "We hit our targets despite the budget cuts." It also works well in storytelling to add drama. It shows that the hero succeeded against the odds. Use it in academic writing to connect opposing ideas smoothly. It makes your arguments feel more balanced and thoughtful.

Avoid using it in very casual, fast-paced texts with close friends. In those cases, even though or but feels more natural. Don't use it if the two ideas don't actually conflict. For example, don't say "I ate lunch despite being hungry." That doesn't make sense! Also, remember the of rule. If you feel the urge to say of, switch to in spite of instead. They mean the same thing, but in spite always needs its partner of.

The word comes from the Old French word despit, which means 'contempt.' Originally, it meant you were doing something while looking down on the obstacle. Today, it has lost that negative 'looking down' feeling. Now, it mostly represents the 'stiff upper lip' or the 'can-do' attitude. It is a favorite word in news reports and formal speeches. It celebrates persistence in the face of difficulty.

The most common twin is in spite of. They are almost always interchangeable. Notwithstanding is another variation, but it is extremely formal. You will mostly see that one in legal contracts or very old books. For a more casual vibe, people use even though or regardless of. If you want to sound like a philosopher, you might use nonetheless at the start of a new sentence.