Much as I like the idea…: concession and contrast
Admit a point and make yours: although, despite, whereas, albeit, nevertheless, even if
What you'll be able to do
Balance an argument: admit a point, then make your own, with exactly the right linking word.
The idea
| Followed by | Words |
|---|---|
| a clause | although, even though, though, while, whereas, much as, even if |
| a noun or -ing | despite, in spite of |
| a new sentence | However, Nevertheless, Even so, That said |
| an adjective, adverb or phrase | albeit |
- Much as I like the idea, we can't afford it.although (I like it a lot)
- Despite having little experience, she got the job.despite + -ing
- The plan is risky; nevertheless, we should try it.after a semicolon or full stop
- The results improved, albeit slowly.albeit + adverb, no verb
- whereas / while compare two facts: I prefer tea, whereas my sister drinks coffee.
- even if means it doesn't matter whether it happens: Even if it rains, we'll go.
- even though means although, and it is true: Even though it rained, we went.
Common mistakes
Despite it was raining, …→ Despite the rain, … or Although it was raining, …Despite of the rain→ Despite the rain / In spite of the rainAlbeit it was late, …Albeit doesn't take a clause: Although it was late, …
Practice
- _____ the bad weather, the flight left on time.Options: Despite · Although · Even though
Show the answer
Despite — A noun after it: despite.
- _____ it was very late, she kept working.Options: Even though · Despite · In spite of
Show the answer
Even though — A full clause after it: even though.
- The project was a success, _____ an expensive one.Options: albeit · however · despite
Show the answer
albeit — Albeit + a phrase, with no verb.
- I'll go for a run tomorrow even _____ it rains.
Show the answer
if — Even if: it doesn't matter whether it happens.
- In _____ of the noise, the baby slept.
Show the answer
spite — In spite of + noun.
In the app, this lesson is taught one idea at a time with the examples read aloud, then practised with questions you answer by choosing or typing. It comes back for review on later days, until you can use it without help.
More on this topic: Linking words: although, despite, however, whereas