Connectors 2

Connectors 2

Although, even though, in spite of and despite

What do they mean?

Although, even though, in spite of and despite are all used to link two contrasting ideas or show that one fact makes the other fact surprising.

They can all be used at the beginning or in the middle of the sentence. 

in spite of / despite

After in spite of and despite, we use a noun, gerund (-ing form of a verb) or a pronoun.

For example:

• They never made much money, in spite of their success.

• Despite having a headache, I had a great birthday.

• In spite of the pain in his leg, he completed the marathon.

• The train was cancelled. In spite of that, we arrived on time.

In spite of the fact that ...

despite the fact that ...

Note that it is common to use in spite of and despite with the expression the fact that, followed by a subject and verb.

For example:

• In spite of the fact that he worked very hard, he didn't pass the exam.

• Despite the fact that he worked very hard, he didn't pass the exam.

although / even though / though

After although and even though, we use a subject and a verb. Even though is slightly stronger and more emphatic than although.

Though can be used in the same way as although. 

For example:

• Although we saw each other every day, we didn't really know each other.

• She didn't get the job, even though she had all the necessary qualifications.

• Though I wasn't keen on the film, I thought the music was beautiful.

Note:

Though can also go at the end of the second phrase. This way of expressing contrasting ideas is most common in spoken English.

For example:

• We waited ages for our food. The waiter was really nice, though.

Quiz Time

Choose the correct answer.

Multiple Choice

1. .............. she is beautiful, everybody hates her.

• Although

• In spite of

Multiple Choice

2. The children slept deeply, .......... the noise.

• although

• in spite of

Multiple Choice

3. Despite ......., he likes playing video games.

• he is an adult

• being an adult

Multiple Choice

Even though ................., generation Z would choose to meet face to face when it is important.

• they prefer texting

• preferring texting