in spite of; despite; although
Used in the pattern 〜にもかかわらず to mean 'in spite of ~' or 'despite ~'. Often follows a noun, na-adjective stem, or plain form of a verb/i-adjective. The にも is usually present but may be omitted in casual speech.
雨にもかかわらず、多くの人が集まった。
Despite the rain, many people gathered.
彼は若いにもかかわらず、とても落ち着いている。
Although he is young, he is very composed.
regardless of; irrespective of
Used in the pattern 〜にかかわらず to mean 'regardless of ~' or 'without being affected by ~'. Often follows nouns indicating difference, such as 年齢, 性別, 天候, or contrasting pairs like 晴雨. The に is essential here.
このイベントは年齢にかかわらず参加できます。
This event is open to participants regardless of age.
天候にかかわらず、試合は行われます。
The match will be held irrespective of the weather.