trotzdem
/ˈtʁɔtsdəm/
Definition
Despite that; used to say something happens even though there is a reason it might not. Similar to "nevertheless" or "still" in English.
Example
Es regnete stark, aber wir gingen trotzdem spazieren.
Show translation
It was raining hard, but we went for a walk anyway.
Etymology
From *trotz* ("defiance, spite") + *dem* (dative of the definite article *das*). The base noun *Trotz* traces to Middle High German *trotz*, meaning stubborn resistance or boldness. So *trotzdem* literally conveys "in defiance of that" — a hint of the word's plucky, persevering spirit still shines through in modern usage.
Cultural note
German speakers use *trotzdem* constantly in everyday conversation and writing. It is the go-to concessive connector, more colloquial than *dennoch* ("nonetheless") or *nichtsdestoweniger* ("notwithstanding"). If you master *trotzdem*, you will sound immediately more natural and fluent in German dialogue.