Nevertheless vs Nonetheless
Nevertheless and nonetheless are two words in English language that have very similar meanings. In fact, they can be used interchangeably and are near synonymous. There is also, however, in the trilogy that is used to express the same meaning of ‘despite’ or ‘in spite of’. This becomes confusing for learners of English language as to whether they should use nevertheless or nonetheless in a particular context. This article aims to find out if there exist any differences between nevertheless and nonetheless.
More people use nevertheless than nonetheless though the two adverbs mean the same. This has to do with the fact that nevertheless is better sounding according to the people who were asked about this preference. If one goes into the history of the two words, he finds that nevertheless is much older and in existence since the 14th century, whereas nonetheless came to be used only as late as 16th century. To most people, nonetheless seems archaic and strange. Some say that it is pretty close in meaning to ‘anyway’ when it is used along with thanks. Both these words are confined to written English these days, and most people prefer to make use of ‘however’ that seems to be much less formal.
Take a look at the following sentences
• Climbing this peak has always proved dangerous for the mountaineers. Nevertheless, I am going to give it a try.
• He made a mess of the job at the office, but I like him nonetheless.
• Sammy did not prepare for the exam. He passed it nevertheless.
Nevertheless vs Nonetheless
• Both adverbs nevertheless and nonetheless convey the same meaning of ‘despite’ and ‘in spite of’.
• Both are very formal and are used in written English only as their place has been taken by ‘however’ in spoken English.
• Of the two, it is nevertheless that is much more common and is preferred by the people.
• Nevertheless appeared in English language much earlier than nonetheless.
• If you look up in the dictionary for the meaning of one, the other appears as a synonymous.