How can I learn English by reading?

The answer depends on your current skills and how well you learn from books and online content. Reading helps you develop vocabulary, understand the structure, and pick up nuances of punctuation and grammar from seeing how others use it. You can learn simply by engaging in active reading while trying to improve your language skills.Some people can absorb English from textbooks and develop incredible skills from reading alone. However, they’re incredibly rare, and you’ll most likely need some help and advice on your journey to fluency.If you choose to take a Promova English class, reading will also be combined with other activities to help you develop overall comprehension. For example, you’ll interact with a certified tutor who will ask you questions about the text and your opinions, improving your communication skills and expression.

How can I practice English reading comprehension?

There are several ways to improve your comprehension:Ask Questions. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Skim and re-read. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After you’re done reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Look for context. Texts don’t exist in isolation and usually have many references, history, or related materials. If you can find out where the author is coming from, you can understand ideas much more quickly.Improve fluency. Spend time sharpening other skills such as listening, speaking, and writing. You can get back to reading later with a new vocabulary and awareness of the language.Lastly, taking English reading and writing classes can help you see the language from various angles and develop better comprehension by engaging with a teacher and getting feedback.

What types of English reading can I learn?

We separate reading into three types based on your purpose - why you might be doing it:Skimming. You’re reading for gist - to get the main ideas from the text. For example, you might be deciding whether a book is worth buying by skimming different chapters to see if it interests you.Scanning. You’re reading to get something in particular from the text and retain specific information. For example, you might be reading a restaurant menu trying to find a dish with shrimps in it, then you’re scanning through the text for the word ‘shrimp’.Intensive reading. You’re reading for detailed comprehension. For example, you’ve received an email from a friend who has just relocated to Canada in which he or she is telling you about their first few weeks in this country. In this case, you might be interested in all the details and even some hidden nuances and inferences, so you will be reading for detail.Extensive reading. You’re reading easy, enjoyable texts without focusing on details or doing any comprehension tasks or examining the text for vocabulary or grammar. This type of reading helps build up fluency by getting used to the language.Learning all the above techniques can help you adjust your reading style and speed depending on your purpose.

In Spite Of vs Despite

What’s the difference between them?

In Spite Of

Meaning:

In spite of means in defiance of, or in disregard of, despite the difficulties or opposition.

Examples:

1. In spite of the storm, the outdoor concert still went forward as planned.

2. In spite of all the challenges, she still managed to get into her dream school.

3. In spite of his difficult childhood, he was able to lead a successful life.

Despite

Meaning:

Despite - in spite of; notwithstanding.

Examples:

1. Despite the bad weather, we decided to go on the hike.

2. She achieved success despite all the obstacles she faced.

3. Despite his age, he still had the strength to lift the heavy box.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

In Spite Of

1. Despite

2. Notwithstanding

3. In the face of

4. In defiance of

5. Regardless of

1. With Regard To

2. In Accordance With

3. In Harmony With

Despite

1. Notwithstanding

2. Notwithstanding that

3. In spite of

4. In defiance of

5. Despite of everything

1. With Regard To

2. In Accordance With

3. In Harmony With

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "In Spite Of", "Despite".

1. In spite of and despite are interchangeable.

2. Remember to use 'in spite of' as a single phrase of three words.

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

In what situations should the first word be used?

In spite of should be used to express a feeling of disregard or defiance of difficulties or opposition that one may face. It implies that one will persist in their endeavor despite any obstacles.

When is the appropriate context for using the second word?

Despite is used to express a similar sentiment as in spite of, but with a slightly more resolute sentiment. It suggests that one is undaunted by potential difficulties and will continue to move forward.

Do the two words share the same pronunciation?

No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. In spite of is pronounced 'in-spyt-uhv' and despite is pronounced 'dih-spayt'.

What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?

A common mistake people make is using 'in spite of' and 'despite' interchangeably. While the two words do share a similar meaning, they have slightly different connotations and should be used accordingly.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. He moved to a new city _________ all the warnings from his family.

2. She continued to pursue her dreams _________ not having any experience.

3. He decided to take his chances _________ the high risks involved.

4. We kept working _________ the lack of resources available.

5. They kept fighting _________ the odds.

6. She found success _________ having no support.

1. in spite of/despite.