Contrast Connectors helps you communicate about concession and unexpected contrast. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can express contrast with although, despite and in spite of.
- Recognise and build the form: although/even though + clause; despite/in spite of + noun or gerund.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Contrast Connectors for concession and unexpected contrast. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
'Although' is followed by a full clause.
Despite the rain, we went for a walk.
'Despite' is followed by a noun phrase.
In spite of being tired, she continued working.
The fixed phrase is 'in spite of', followed here by a gerund.
although/even though + clause; despite/in spite of + noun or gerundKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- 'Although' is followed by a full clause.
- 'Despite' is followed by a noun phrase.
- The fixed phrase is 'in spite of', followed here by a gerund.
- 'Even though' introduces a strong concessive clause.
- Use 'despite + noun phrase' for this contrast.
Common mistakes
Not:Despite it was raining, we went for a walk.
Use:Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
'Although' is followed by a full clause.
Not:Although the rain, we went for a walk.
Use:Despite the rain, we went for a walk.
'Despite' is followed by a noun phrase.
Not:In spite to being tired, she continued working.
Use:In spite of being tired, she continued working.
The fixed phrase is 'in spite of', followed here by a gerund.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
He passed the exam ____ he had not studied much.
even though
'Even though' introduces a strong concessive clause.
____ her lack of experience, she performed well.
Despite
Use 'despite + noun phrase' for this contrast.
The product is popular ____ its high price.
in spite of
'In spite of' is followed by the noun phrase 'its high price'.