Lesson 47: Problem points
This lesson looks at the use of "in spite of", "despite" and "although" – three ways of expressing contrast in English – and clarifies the differences between them and the typical mistakes made when u
About this lesson
In this lesson you will learn how to use three key expressions of contrast correctly: "in spite of", "despite" and "although". You will understand why "in spite of" and "despite" are followed by a noun or a gerund, while "although" introduces a whole clause. We will work with practical examples so that you can consolidate the differences between them. The exercises will help you avoid the most common mistakes at B1 level and build confidence in constructing more complex sentences.
40 minutes
What you'll learn
- Distinguish between the uses of 'in spite of', 'despite' and 'although'
- Construct grammatically correct sentences with all three expressions
- Recognise and avoid the common mistakes made when using them
- Use the gerund after 'in spite of' and 'despite'
- Transform sentences from one form into the other
Lesson vocabulary
- in spite of In spite of the rain, we went for a walk.
- despite Despite the cold weather, she wore a light jacket.
- although Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
- even though Even though he was tired, he finished his work.
- however It was raining. However, we still went out.
- contrast These words are used to show contrast between two ideas.
- gerund Despite feeling ill, she came to the meeting.
- clause Although introduces a subordinate clause.
- concession Although I was late, the teacher let me in.
- despite the fact that Despite the fact that it was late, they kept talking.
- nevertheless The task was hard; nevertheless, she completed it.
- noun phrase In spite of his efforts, he failed the exam.
- subordinate conjunction 'Although' is a subordinate conjunction.
- effort Despite his efforts, he didn't win the competition.
- manage to Although she was nervous, she managed to give a great speech.
In other languages: Български