Notwithstanding vs Withstanding: Meaning And Differences

Have you ever found yourself confused about the difference between the words notwithstanding and withstanding? While they may sound similar, they have distinct meanings and uses in the English language.

Notwithstanding is a conjunction that means in spite of, despite, or regardless of. It is often used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or qualifies what has just been said. For example, “Notwithstanding the rain, the picnic went ahead as planned.”

Withstanding, on the other hand, is a verb that means to resist, endure, or withstand something. It is often used in the context of physical or emotional endurance, such as “The athlete was able to withstand the intense heat and complete the race.”

While these two words may seem interchangeable at times, it is important to use them correctly to convey the intended meaning. In this article, we will explore the differences between notwithstanding and withstanding in more detail.

Define Notwithstanding

Notwithstanding is a conjunction that is used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or contradicts the previous clause. It is often used to indicate an exception to a general rule or to emphasize a particular point. Notwithstanding is also used as a preposition, meaning “in spite of” or “despite.”

For example, “Notwithstanding the bad weather, the event was a success” indicates that the event was successful despite the bad weather. Another example is “Notwithstanding his lack of experience, he was offered the job,” which means that he was offered the job despite not having much experience.

Notwithstanding is often used in legal writing to introduce exceptions or qualifications to a rule or regulation. In this context, it is often abbreviated as “notw.” or “n.w.”

Define Withstanding

Withstanding is a verb that means “to resist or endure something.” It is often used to describe a physical or emotional ability to withstand something difficult or challenging.

For example, “The building was able to withstand the earthquake” means that the building was strong enough to resist the effects of the earthquake. Another example is “She was able to withstand the pressure of the job,” which means that she was able to handle the stress and demands of the job.

Withstanding can also be used in a figurative sense, such as “The company was able to withstand the economic downturn,” which means that the company was able to survive and continue operating despite the difficult economic conditions.

Notwithstanding Vs. Withstanding

While notwithstanding and withstanding sound similar, they have different meanings and uses. Notwithstanding is used to introduce a clause that contradicts or qualifies the previous clause, while withstanding is a verb that means “to resist or endure something.”

For example, “Notwithstanding the bad weather, the event was a success” indicates that the event was successful despite the bad weather. In contrast, “The building was able to withstand the bad weather” means that the building was strong enough to resist the effects of the bad weather.

It is important to use these words correctly to avoid confusion or ambiguity in your writing.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the correct word in a sentence can make all the difference in conveying the intended meaning. In this section, we will discuss how to properly use the words notwithstanding and withstanding in a sentence.

How To Use Notwithstanding In A Sentence

The word notwithstanding is often used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or modifies the preceding clause. It can also be used as a preposition, meaning “in spite of” or “despite.”

Here are some examples of how to use notwithstanding in a sentence:

• Notwithstanding his busy schedule, John always finds time to exercise.
• The company decided to move forward with the project notwithstanding the risks involved.
• She continued to work hard notwithstanding the criticism she received.

As you can see from these examples, notwithstanding is used to introduce a clause that contrasts with or modifies the preceding clause. It can also be used to indicate that something is happening despite a particular circumstance.

How To Use Withstanding In A Sentence

The word withstanding is often used as a verb, meaning “to resist” or “to endure.” It can also be used as a preposition, meaning “in spite of” or “despite.”

Here are some examples of how to use withstanding in a sentence:

• The building was able to withstand the earthquake due to its sturdy construction.
• Despite the harsh weather conditions, the athletes were able to withstand the challenge.
• Withstanding pressure from the opposition, the government implemented the policy.

As you can see from these examples, withstanding is used as a verb to indicate that something is able to resist or endure a particular circumstance. It can also be used as a preposition to indicate that something is happening despite a particular circumstance.

More Examples Of Notwithstanding & Withstanding Used In Sentences

In this section, we will provide more examples of how to use “notwithstanding” and “withstanding” in sentences. These examples will help you understand the proper usage of these two words and how they can be used in different contexts.

Examples Of Using Notwithstanding In A Sentence

• Notwithstanding the bad weather, the event was a huge success.
• Notwithstanding his lack of experience, he was able to complete the task successfully.
• Notwithstanding the fact that he was tired, he continued working on the project.
• Notwithstanding the opposition from the local community, the project was approved.
• Notwithstanding her fear of heights, she climbed to the top of the mountain.
• Notwithstanding the high cost, the company decided to invest in new technology.
• Notwithstanding his busy schedule, he always finds time for his family.
• Notwithstanding the delay, the project was completed on time.
• Notwithstanding the criticism, the artist continued to pursue his vision.
• Notwithstanding the risks, she decided to start her own business.

As you can see from these examples, “notwithstanding” is used to indicate that something is true despite a particular condition or circumstance.

Examples Of Using Withstanding In A Sentence

• The building was able to withstand the earthquake without any damage.
• The company was able to withstand the economic downturn and continue to grow.
• The material is designed to withstand extreme temperatures.
• The athlete was able to withstand the intense training regimen.
• The bridge was built to withstand heavy traffic.
• The tree was able to withstand the strong winds of the storm.
• The fortress was able to withstand the siege for months.
• The product is tested to ensure it can withstand wear and tear.
• The aircraft was designed to withstand turbulence.
• The boat was able to withstand the rough seas.

In contrast, “withstanding” is used to indicate that something has the ability to resist or endure a particular force or condition.

By using these examples, you can better understand how to use “notwithstanding” and “withstanding” in your writing and speaking. Remember to use them correctly to avoid confusion and ensure your message is clear.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using notwithstanding and withstanding, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have different meanings and should be used in the appropriate context. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using Notwithstanding And Withstanding Interchangeably

One common mistake is using notwithstanding and withstanding interchangeably. While both words have similar spellings, they have different meanings. Notwithstanding means in spite of or despite, while withstanding means resisting or enduring. For example:

• Notwithstanding the bad weather, we went for a hike.
• The building is built to withstand earthquakes.

Using these words interchangeably can lead to confusion and miscommunication.

Using Notwithstanding When Withstanding Is Appropriate

Another mistake is using notwithstanding when withstanding is appropriate. Notwithstanding is used to indicate an exception or contrast, while withstanding is used to indicate resistance or endurance. For example:

• Notwithstanding his lack of experience, he got the job.
• The bridge withstood the weight of the heavy truck.

Using notwithstanding in the second example would be incorrect as it does not indicate an exception or contrast.

Using Withstanding When Notwithstanding Is Appropriate

The opposite mistake is using withstanding when notwithstanding is appropriate. Notwithstanding is used to indicate an exception or contrast, while withstanding is used to indicate resistance or endurance. For example:

• Notwithstanding the fact that he was tired, he stayed up all night to finish the project.
• The tree withstood the strong winds during the storm.

Using withstanding in the first example would be incorrect as it does not indicate resistance or endurance.

Tips To Avoid Making These Mistakes

To avoid making these mistakes, it is important to understand the meanings of notwithstanding and withstanding and use them in the appropriate context. Here are some tips:

• Read and understand the definitions of these words.
• Use notwithstanding to indicate an exception or contrast, and withstanding to indicate resistance or endurance.
• Check the context in which you are using these words to ensure they are being used correctly.
• Proofread your writing to ensure you have used the correct word.

Context Matters

Choosing between the words notwithstanding and withstanding can be dependent on the context in which they are used. The two words have different meanings and implications, and their usage can alter the intended message of a sentence. It is important to understand the context in which they are used to make the right choice.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between notwithstanding and withstanding might change:

Context	Word Choice	Explanation
Legal Documents	Notwithstanding	Notwithstanding is commonly used in legal documents to indicate that a particular clause or provision will remain in effect despite other provisions or circumstances.
Physical Resistance	withstanding	Withstanding is used to describe physical resistance or the ability to endure something, such as a storm or harsh conditions.
Overcoming Obstacles	withstanding	Withstanding can also be used to describe overcoming obstacles or challenges, such as a difficult task or a personal struggle.
Regardless Of	Notwithstanding	Notwithstanding can be used to mean “in spite of” or “regardless of,” indicating that something will happen or be true regardless of other factors.

By understanding the context in which these words are used, you can make the right choice and ensure that your message is clear and accurate.

Exceptions To The Rules

Identifying Exceptions

While the rules for using notwithstanding and withstanding are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions that can make it difficult to determine which word to use in a given context.

One exception is when the word notwithstanding is used as a preposition, rather than a conjunction. In this case, it is often followed by a noun phrase and means “in spite of” or “despite”. For example:

• Notwithstanding the rainy weather, the outdoor concert went ahead as planned.
• He decided to go on the trip notwithstanding the risks involved.

Another exception is when the word withstanding is used as a verb, rather than a preposition. In this case, it means “to resist or withstand something”. For example:

• The bridge was built to withstand earthquakes and high winds.
• Despite the intense pressure, the athlete was able to withstand the challenge.

Explaining Exceptions

In the case of notwithstanding as a preposition, it is important to remember that it is followed by a noun phrase, rather than a clause. This can help to distinguish it from the conjunction use of notwithstanding, which is followed by a clause. In addition, the meaning of “in spite of” or “despite” is often more appropriate in contexts where there is a clear contrast between two things.

When withstanding is used as a verb, it is important to remember that it is not interchangeable with notwithstanding. While both words imply resistance, withstanding specifically refers to the ability to resist or endure something. This can be physical, as in the case of a building designed to withstand earthquakes, or metaphorical, as in the case of a person who is able to withstand pressure or criticism.

It is also worth noting that withstanding is often used in the context of a challenge or obstacle, while notwithstanding is often used in the context of an exception or qualification. For example, a company might say that it is profitable notwithstanding the recent economic downturn, while an athlete might say that he was able to win the race withstanding the intense heat.

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between “notwithstanding” and “withstanding,” it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences.

Exercise 1

Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:

1. ____________ the bad weather, the game continued.
2. ____________ her fear of heights, she climbed to the top of the mountain.
3. ____________ his busy schedule, he found time to attend the meeting.
4. ____________ the fact that he was tired, he stayed up late to finish his work.

Answer key:

1. Notwithstanding
2. Withstanding
3. Notwithstanding
4. Notwithstanding

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using “notwithstanding” and “withstanding” correctly:

Notwithstanding	Withstanding
Despite the fact that	In spite of
Although	Even though
Regardless of	Despite

Answer key:

Notwithstanding the heavy rain, the outdoor concert was a success. Withstanding the pain in her ankle, she finished the marathon.

Exercise 3

Fill in the blank with the correct word:

The building is strong and sturdy, ____________ the harsh weather conditions it has endured.

Answer key:

withstanding

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between notwithstanding and withstanding, it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and cannot be used interchangeably. Notwithstanding is a preposition that means despite or in spite of, while withstanding is a verb that means to resist or endure. It is important to use these words correctly in order to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion.

Some key takeaways from this article include:

• Notwithstanding is a preposition that indicates a contrast or exception.
• Withstanding is a verb that means to resist or endure.
• Notwithstanding is often used in legal or formal contexts.
• Withstanding is more commonly used in everyday speech.

As with any aspect of language, it is important to continue learning and improving our grammar and language use. By doing so, we can communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings. Whether through reading, taking courses, or practicing writing, there are many ways to continue honing our language skills.

So, let us all strive to use language with precision and clarity, and continue our journey towards mastery.