1. 尽管;虽然
    You use despite to introduce a fact which makes the other part of the sentence surprising.

    e.g. Despite a thorough investigation, no trace of Dr Southwell has been found...
           尽管进行了彻底的调查，还是没有发现索思韦尔博士的任何踪迹。
    e.g. The National Health Service has visibly deteriorated, despite increased spending...
           尽管支出在增加，但国民医疗保健服务的质量却明显下降了。

2. 不由自主;情不自禁
    If you do something despite yourself you do it although you did not really intend or expect to.

    e.g. Despite myself, Harry's remarks had caused me to stop and reflect.
           哈里的话让我不由自主地停下来细想。