Although and despite: contrast an obstacle with the outcome

The idea

For the full clauses here, use although/even though + subject + verb. Use despite/in spite of + noun or ing phrase. To introduce a full clause after these prepositions, add the fact that.

Examples

• Although the suitcase was heavy, Mina lifted it onto the shelf.
• Despite the narrow doorway, the sofa fitted through.
• In spite of arriving late, we found two seats near the stage.
• Even though the room looked empty, all the seats were reserved.
• Although I recognised the voice, I couldn't remember the name.
• Despite the fact that the bakery was busy, the assistant explained all the ingredients.

Watch out

Use despite, not despite of; keep of in in spite of. Do not link the same two clauses with although and but together. Shorter forms like although tired are possible, but they are a different pattern.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. Although ___, Mina lifted it onto the shelf. (the suitcase was heavy / the heavy suitcase)

   Show answer or example answer

   the suitcase was heavy

   The suitcase was heavy supplies the subject and verb of the full although-clause.

2. Choose the correct option. The sofa fitted through ___ the narrow doorway. (despite / despite of)

   Show answer or example answer

   despite

   The correct preposition is despite. Adding of produces the incorrect form despite of.

3. Choose the correct option. In spite of ___ late, we found two seats. (arriving / arrive)

   Show answer or example answer

   arriving

   After in spite of, choose the ing form arriving. Bare arrive does not fit this pattern.

Use it today

Describe a result that surprised you despite an obstacle. Write it once with although and once with despite, changing the following structure rather than only swapping the connector.