Differences between 'though', 'although', 'even though', 'despite', and 'in spite of'

Jul 4, 2024

Differences between 'though', 'although', 'even though', 'despite', and 'in spite of'

Overview

  • Explanation of common student question about the differences between 'though', 'although', 'even though', 'despite', and 'in spite of'.
  • The distinctions are simpler than they seem.

Adverb Clauses: 'though', 'although', 'even though'

  • Clause: A group of words containing a subject and a verb.
  • Used to show contrast within a long sentence that has two clauses.
    • One clause has the adverb marker (though, although, even though).
    • The other is an independent clause.
    • Shows contrasting ideas (positive vs. negative, unexpected vs. expected).

Detailed Usage

  • Though vs. Although
    • Essentially the same meaning.
    • Though is more informal; can end a sentence with it.
    • Although cannot end a sentence.
    • Examples:
      • “Although the exam was difficult, I think I did well.”
      • “I think I did well although the exam was difficult.”
      • “The exam was difficult. I think I did well, though.” (informal)
  • Even though
    • Shows a much stronger contrast and adds emphasis.
    • Used to emphasize the expectation.
    • Example:
      • “Even though the exam was easy, I failed.” (strong contrast between expectation and reality)

Prepositions: 'despite', 'in spite of'

  • Used with a phrase (a group of words without subject and verb).
  • Both mean the same and can be used interchangeably.
  • Common Mistake: Mixing up these prepositions (e.g., saying “in despite of” or “despite of”).
  • Examples:
    • “Despite his best efforts, the man just couldn't succeed.”
    • “In spite of his best efforts, the man just couldn't succeed.”
    • “The man just couldn't succeed despite his best efforts.”
    • “The man just couldn't succeed in spite of his best efforts.”

Usage with Gerunds

  • Gerunds (verbs ending in 'ing' used as nouns) can be used with 'despite' or 'in spite of'.
  • Example:
    • “Despite being on time, we were not admitted.”
    • “In spite of being on time, we were not admitted.”

Key Differences Summarized

  • Though/Although/Even though: Used with clauses, shows contrasts.
  • Despite/In spite of: Used with phrases, same meaning as 'although'.

Conclusion

  • Visit www.engvid.com for a quiz and additional practice/questions.
  • Encouragement to review examples and understand contexts.