Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Although, even though, in spite of and despite are words that are often used to connect two contrasting ideas or to express that one statement makes the other surprising. They are often found either at the beginning or in the middle of the sentence.
The way they are used differ depending on the different structures they are used with.
although / even though
Although and even though are followed by a subject and a verb. The only difference of even though from although is that it is a little stronger and more emphatic.
They liked the cake, although she would have loved more cream filling in it.
Although they loved each other very much, they decided to end their relationship.
Even though he gave her everything, she still left him.
The students didn’t get the answer correctly, even though their teacher gave them all the clues they needed to solve the problem.
though
Though and although can be used interchangeably.
Though Meghan is not a royal, Prince Harry married her. = Although Meghan is not a royal, Prince Harry married her.
Though can also be placed at the end of the second phrase. This structure is more commonly used in spoken English.
We were so exhausted as we had to hike all day to reach the top of the mountain. The view was so worth it, though.
in spite of / despite
In spite of and despite are followed by either a noun, gerund, or pronoun.
They didn’t win the match, in spite of their impressive play during the game.
In spite of the hardship, the team remained unfazed.
Despite being sick, she had a great holiday.
The food was terrible. In spite of that, we had a great time.
In spite of and despite are also often followed by the fact that + subject + verb.
In spite of the fact that it rained very heavily, the wildfires weren’t extinguished.
Despite the fact that it was only the beginning of July, it was very hot when we arrived in Sevilla.