no obstante
adverbCEFR B1
What does “no obstante” mean in English?
nevertheless, notwithstanding — formal register contrastive connector; equivalent to sin embargo but higher register
Example sentences
El informe concluye que la medida es viable; no obstante, los autores reconocen que se necesitan más datos para confirmar los resultados.
The report concludes that the measure is viable; nevertheless, the authors acknowledge that more data is needed to confirm the results.
No obstante las dificultades del proceso, el equipo logró entregar el proyecto dentro del plazo establecido.
Despite the difficulties of the process, the team managed to deliver the project within the agreed deadline.
Los resultados son positivos; no obstante, sería prematuro afirmar que el problema está totalmente resuelto.
The results are positive; nevertheless, it would be premature to claim that the problem is entirely resolved.
How to use it
No obstante is a formal discourse marker meaning 'nevertheless' or 'notwithstanding'. It is functionally equivalent to sin embargo but sits a register higher — appropriate for academic writing, formal reports, and professional presentations. Like sin embargo, it is an adverb and must be separated from its clause by punctuation. Beginners often over-use it in casual writing, where sin embargo or pero would be more natural.
Common mistake
No obstante sounds out of place in casual conversation — using it in a chat message or informal debate sounds pompous. Save it for written reports, academic essays, and formal presentations. In informal contexts, use sin embargo or pero instead. Also note: like sin embargo, it is not a conjunction and cannot join clauses without punctuation.