Although vs Despite
What’s the difference between them?
Although
Meaning:
Although: used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has already been said or approved of.
Examples:
1. Although it was raining, we still decided to go on the hike.
2. Although we don't always agree, we still remain close friends.
3. Although the project was difficult, I was able to complete it on time.
Despite
Meaning:
Despite means in spite of; notwithstanding.
Examples:
1. Despite our best efforts, we weren't able to finish the project on time.
2. Despite the odds, she managed to succeed.
3. Despite being tired, he stayed up late to finish the report.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Although
1) Despite
2) Nevertheless
3) Nonetheless
4) All the same
5) In spite of
1. Disregard
2. Neglect
3. Refuse
4. Ignore
5. Reject
Despite
1. In spite of
2. Notwithstanding
3. Despite all
4. Despite adversity
5. In the face of
1. Agree
2. Approve
3. Support
4. Encourage
5. Consent to
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Although", "Despite".
1. 'Although' introduces a fact or observation that is contrary to what was expected or previously stated.
2. 'Despite' introduces a fact or observation that is contrary to what was expected or previously stated, but is also implying that the fact or observation is more important than what was expected or previously stated.
3. 'Although' is used to describe the source of the contradiction, while 'despite' is used to describe the result of the contradiction.
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Frequently asked questions
When should 'although' be used?
Although should be used when introducing a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has already been said or approved of. It is usually used to show that something is true even though there may be circumstances that make it difficult to accept.
When is the appropriate context for using 'despite'?
Despite should be used when expressing that something happened or is true in spite of certain circumstances. It is often used to emphasize that something happened or is true despite any difficulties or obstacles that might have been present.
Do 'although' and 'despite' share the same pronunciation?
No, although and despite do not share the same pronunciation.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is confusing the two. Although and despite may look and sound similar, they have different meanings and should be used accordingly. Another mistake people make is using 'despite' when they really mean 'although' or vice versIt is important to take the time to understand the context when using either of these words.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. _____ it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
2. She managed to finish her work on time, _____ the numerous interruptions.
3. _____ having a headache, he attended all the meetings.
4. They enjoyed the picnic, _____ the unexpected change in weather.
5. _____ he had studied well, he found the exam difficult.
6. She wore her new dress to the party, _____ the small stain on the sleeve.
1. Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
Explanation: Although is used here to introduce a contrastive statement: despite the fact it was raining, they still decided to go for a walk.
2. She managed to finish her work on time, despite the numerous interruptions.
Explanation: Despite is used to express contrast, emphasizing that even with numerous interruptions, she still finished her work.
3. Despite having a headache, he attended all the meetings.
Explanation: Despite is used here to show contrast. Even though he had a headache, he still attended the meetings.
4. They enjoyed the picnic, although the unexpected change in weather.
Explanation: Although is used to introduce a contrastive statement: they still enjoyed the picnic even if the weather changed unexpectedly.
5. Although he had studied well, he found the exam difficult.
Explanation: Although is used to contrast the two statements: studying well and still finding the exam difficult.
6. She wore her new dress to the party, despite the small stain on the sleeve.
Explanation: Despite is used to express contrast. She chose to wear the dress even if there was a stain.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.