This is the 533rd most frequent Dutch word.
ondanks
"Ondanks" means "despite" or "in spite of."
Here, 'ondanks' is used to introduce a concession, indicating that the action of going outside occurred even though the condition (bad weather) might have discouraged it.
Ondanks het slechte weer ging ze naar buiten.
Despite the bad weather, she went outside.
The phrase 'ondanks de verkeersdrukte' demonstrates the word's function to contrast the expectation (being late) with the actual result (arriving on time).
Ondanks de verkeersdrukte, kwam hij op tijd aan.
Despite the heavy traffic, he arrived on time.
In this sentence, 'ondanks' highlights persistence, showing that the outcome (completing the marathon) happened contrary to the challenging condition (injuries).