despite只可以是介词，意思有三个，为:尽管，虽然，不由自主。但是在汉语中，很多同学会认错词性，所以要特别注意。
其次，despite 有个同义的介词短语，in spite of，经常可以互换。
第三，这个介词所构成的短语只可以用作状语
Her voice was shaking despite all her efforts to control it.
尽管她竭尽全力控制自己，声音仍然在颤抖。
She was good at physics despite the fact that she found it boring.
尽管她认为物理枯燥无味，她却学得很好。
The business folded up despite its brave start.
虽然生意开始的时候很成功，但终究失败了。
His determination remains as strong as ever despite all the setbacks he has encountered.
虽然他遇到了许多挫折，可是意志仍旧那样坚强。
Despite a thorough investigation, no trace of Dr.Southwell has been found.
尽管进行了彻底的调查，还是没有发现索斯维尔博士的任何踪迹。
Despite applying for hundreds of jobs, he is still out of work.
尽管他申请了数百个工作，但仍然在失业中。
Despite myself, Harry's remarks had caused me to stop and reflect.
哈利的话让我不由自主地停下来细想。
注意:英语表达中，
状语的第一位置是句尾，第二位置是句首，但是为了避免产生歧义，状语后常用逗号间隔，第三位置是句中，常放在系动词之后，实义动词之前，第一个助动词之后！
