despite

The word “despite” means without being prevented by; even though something might suggest otherwise. In plain terms, used to introduce something that doesn't stop the main statement from being true.

“Despite” is pronounced dih-SPYT (/dɪˈspaɪt/ in IPA).

Here is “despite” used in a sentence: “Despite the rain, the match went ahead.”

The opposite of “despite” — its antonyms — is because of.

“Despite” is a preposition.

The word “despite” comes from Latin. From Old French despit, from Latin despectus, "a looking down on" — from despicere, "to despise". The preposition grew out of the phrase "in despite of".

“Despite” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

They sound similar but are unrelated. 'Despite' is a preposition meaning 'even though' or 'regardless of' — 'She smiled despite the rain.' 'Despise' is a verb meaning to look down on or strongly dislike someone or something — 'They despise cheating.' One introduces a contrast; the other expresses contempt.

There is virtually no difference in meaning — both introduce something that contrasts with the main statement, and they are interchangeable. 'Despite the cost' and 'in spite of the cost' say the same thing. 'Despite' is one word and slightly more concise, which is why it is common in formal writing.

No. 'Despite of' is a common mistake. The word 'despite' already includes the sense of 'of,' so it is followed directly by a noun: 'despite the delay,' not 'despite of the delay.' If you want to use 'of,' choose the phrase 'in spite of' instead.

Both signal a contrast, but they work differently in a sentence. 'Despite' is a preposition followed by a noun or -ing phrase: 'Despite being tired, she ran.' 'Although' is a conjunction followed by a full clause with a subject and verb: 'Although she was tired, she ran.'