despite
Translation
in spite of, notwithstanding
Examples
He went out despite the heavy rain.
He went out despite the heavy rain.
Despite being tired, she finished the race.
Despite being tired, she finished the race.
Grammar Patterns
despite ((sth.)) in spite of (sth.) He went out despite the heavy rain.
despite ((-ing)) in spite of doing (sth.) Despite being tired, she finished the race.
Similar Words
Synonyms: in spite of, notwithstanding; Antonyms: because of, due to
Etymology
From Old French 'despit' (contempt), from Latin 'de-' (down) + 'specere' (to look at), meaning 'a looking down upon'.
Memory Tips
Think 'DE-SPITE' – you do something against the 'spite' or ill will of a situation, like bad weather.