nonostante
Lemma: nonostante
Translation: despite; in spite of; notwithstanding; although; even though (preposition, conjunction)
Etymology: From Latin 'non obstante' meaning 'not standing in the way', composed of 'non' (not) and the present participle of 'obstare' (to stand against, to hinder). The English cognate 'notwithstanding' follows a similar semantic pattern, combining 'not' with 'withstanding' (resisting or opposing). The Italian form evolved through phonological changes while maintaining the original Latin meaning of something not being an obstacle.
Example Usage
Nonostante la pioggia, siamo andati al parco.
Despite the rain, we went to the park.
Nonostante fosse stanco, ha continuato a lavorare.
Although he was tired, he continued working.
Ha vinto la gara nonostante l'infortunio.
He won the race in spite of the injury.
Nonostante le difficoltà, non si è mai arreso.
Despite the difficulties, he never gave up.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'non' (not) + 'ostante' (standing) = 'not standing in the way'
- Similar to English 'notwithstanding' but with a more streamlined form
- Remember 'non' (not) + 'ostacolo' (obstacle) = 'not an obstacle'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Used frequently in both written and spoken Italian, 'nonostante' is an essential connector for expressing contrast or concession in formal writing, academic contexts, and everyday speech.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'despite/in spite of', 'nonostante' is more common and neutral, whereas 'malgrado' has a slightly more literary feel.
Confused word:
Malgrado il maltempo, la festa si terrà all'aperto.
In spite of the bad weather, the party will be held outdoors.
Notes: Both can be used as prepositions or conjunctions, but 'nonostante' is generally more versatile in everyday speech.
Mnemonic: 'Nonostante' contains 'non' (not) making it easier to remember as the more common, everyday term.
Explanation: 'Nonostante' introduces a contrasting element that doesn't prevent something, while 'tuttavia' (however/nevertheless) introduces a contrasting statement without necessarily implying that something was overcome.
Confused word:
È molto giovane; tuttavia, è molto saggio.
He is very young; however, he is very wise.
Notes: 'Nonostante' typically introduces a noun phrase or subordinate clause, while 'tuttavia' often connects independent clauses.
Mnemonic: 'Nonostante' connects directly to an obstacle being overcome, while 'tuttavia' (from 'tutto' + 'via' = 'all the way') suggests moving forward despite contrast.