Word
nevertheless
Phoneticsnev·er·the·less, stress on the fourth syllable
US/ˌnɛvɝðəˈɫɛs/
UK/nˌɛvəðəlˈɛs/
Sentence adverb
Definition
adv. in spite of what has just been said. You use it to show that something is true even though there is a reason why it might not be.
adv. in spite of that; notwithstanding. Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or qualifies a preceding point.
Examples
“The hike was difficult; nevertheless, we reached the top.”
“The data was incomplete; nevertheless, the researchers decided to publish their preliminary findings to spark further discussion.”
“The economic forecast remains bleak for the coming quarter; nevertheless, consumer confidence has shown a surprising resilience that suggests a faster recovery than initially anticipated.”
Examples
simple
“The hike was difficult; nevertheless, we reached the top.”
contextual
“The data was incomplete; nevertheless, the researchers decided to publish their preliminary findings to spark further discussion.”
complex
“The economic forecast remains bleak for the coming quarter; nevertheless, consumer confidence has shown a surprising resilience that suggests a faster recovery than initially anticipated.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “nevertheless” in context.
Verb
01. nevertheless agree with the decision
“She had some reservations, but she nevertheless agreed with the decision of the board.”
adv + verb + prep + noun
02. nevertheless continue the project
“Funding was cut significantly, but the scientists nevertheless continue the project using private donations.”
adv + verb + noun
03. nevertheless persist in the effort
“The weather was terrible, but the hikers nevertheless persisted in the effort to reach the summit.”
adv + verb + prep + noun
04. nevertheless remain optimistic
“The team lost their best player; they nevertheless remain optimistic about the upcoming season.”
adv + verb + adj
Usage
Sentence adverb — typically used as a conjunctive adverb to connect two independent clauses, often following a semicolon or starting a new sentence.
Pitfall
He was tired nevertheless he finished.
He was tired; nevertheless, he finished.
When connecting two independent clauses, 'nevertheless' requires a semicolon or a full stop before it, not just a comma.
Real-World Examples
“Nevertheless, he had a self-discipline that saw the pitfalls of alcohol: “Certainly it prevented my dad, Alec Milburn, from making the big time,” Jackie recalled.” “But nevertheless, Berkowski’s photography cemented a new era of eclipse fascination.” Etymology
From Middle English nevertheles, never-þe-les, nevere-þe-lesse. By surface analysis, never (“not at all”) + the + less; compare never the wiser.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADVERB
ARTICLE
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
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