In English, we use although, though, even though, despite, and in spite of to show contrast between two ideas. These words help connect sentences when one idea is surprising compared to the other.
For example:
- Although it was raining, they went for a walk.
- Despite the rain, they went for a walk.
Even though these words have similar meanings, they are used differently in sentences. In this guide, we will explain their differences, rules, and common mistakes to help you use them correctly.
Differences Between Although, Though, Even Though, Despite, and In Spite Of
These words are used to show contrast between two ideas. However, they are used differently in sentences.
For example:
- Although it was cold, they went outside.
- Despite the cold, they went outside.
Both sentences show contrast, but they use different structures. Below, we will explore the meaning, usage, and rules of each word in detail.
ALTHOUGH
Although introduces contrast between two ideas. It means “despite the fact that” or “even though”.
Grammar Rule
- Although is followed by a subject + verb (a full sentence).
Examples
- Although it was cold, they went swimming.
- She passed the exam, although she didn’t study much.
- Although he is rich, he drives an old car.
Although is used in formal and written English.
THOUGH
Though has the same meaning as although, but it is more informal and commonly used in spoken English.
Grammar Rule
- Though is followed by a subject + verb.
Examples
- Though it was late, they continued working.
- I like the jacket, though it’s expensive.
- She’s tired, though she keeps working hard.
Though is often used at the end of a sentence to give contrast.
Example:
- It’s expensive. I like it, though.
EVEN THOUGH
Even though is a stronger version of although. It shows a big contrast or surprising information.
Grammar Rule
- Even though is followed by a subject + verb.
Examples
- Even though he studied hard, he failed the exam.
- She went to work, even though she was sick.
- Even though I like sweets, I don’t eat them often.
Even though emphasizes contrast more than although or though.
DESPITE
Despite means “without being affected by” or “in contrast to”.
Grammar Rule
Despite is not followed by a full sentence. Instead, it is followed by:
- A noun → Despite the rain, we went outside.
- A pronoun → Despite that, she continued working.
- A verb + -ing → Despite feeling tired, he kept running.
Examples
- Despite the noise, I slept well.
- He won the game, despite having an injury.
- Despite their arguments, they are still friends.
Never use “despite” with a full sentence.
Incorrect: Despite he was tired, he continued.
Correct: Despite being tired, he continued.
IN SPITE OF
In spite of means the same as despite.
Grammar Rule
It follows the same structure as despite.
| Despite | In Spite Of |
|---|---|
| Despite the rain, we went outside. | In spite of the rain, we went outside. |
| Despite her age, she runs fast. | In spite of her age, she runs fast. |
| Despite being sick, he worked. | In spite of being sick, he worked. |
“In spite of” is a little more formal than despite, but both are correct.
Quiz: Although, Though, Even Though, Despite, and In Spite Of
1. ______ she studied hard, she failed the exam.
a) Despite
b) Although
c) In spite of
2. ______ the traffic, we arrived late.
a) Although
b) Despite
c) Even though
3. ______ it was raining, they continued playing football.
a) Despite
b) In spite of
c) Even though
4. ______ his fear of heights, he climbed the mountain.
a) Despite
b) Although
c) Even though
5. We enjoyed the trip ______ the cold weather.
a) Even though
b) Despite
c) Though
6. ______ she was hungry, she didn’t eat anything.
a) In spite of
b) Even though
c) Despite
7. ______ being sick, he went to work.
a) Although
b) Despite
c) Though
8. ______ the difficulty of the test, he passed with a high score.
a) Although
b) In spite of
c) Though
9. ______ it was expensive, she bought the dress.
a) Even though
b) Despite
c) In spite of
10. ______ his injury, he continued playing.
a) Though
b) Despite
c) Even though
Quiz Answers
1) Although
2) Despite
3) Even though
4) Despite
5) Despite
6) Even though
7) Despite
8) In spite of
9) Even though
10) Despite
