"In spite of" is used to highlight a contrast between a situation and the result of an action. In this guide, IDP will help you explore the meaning, structures, and differences between in spite of, although, though, and even though.
1. Meaning of "In Spite Of"
"In spite of" is a prepositional phrase used to express concession or contrast, meaning “although” or “despite.” It emphasizes that something happens despite a difficulty or opposite situation.
Examples:
She goes skydiving in spite of being afraid of heights.
Ana continues to work part-time in spite of her demanding study schedule.
2. Structures with "In Spite Of" in English
"In spite of" can be followed by a noun, noun phrase, gerund (V-ing), or the phrase "the fact that + clause". However, it cannot directly be followed by a full clause without modification.
Structure 1
In spite of + noun / noun phrase / V-ing
She managed to finish the marathon in spite of having an injured leg.
In spite of his lack of experience, David was offered the job.
Structure 2
In spite of the fact that + S + V
She got promoted in spite of the fact that she had only worked at the company for a year.
In spite of the fact that Tom has no taste for spicy food, he still tried the new dish.
3. Differences Between "In Spite Of / Despite" and "Although / Though / Even Though"
These expressions all indicate contrast but follow different grammatical structures.
"In Spite Of / Despite"
Used with nouns, noun phrases, or gerunds (V-ing). If followed by a full clause, add "the fact that."
Examples:
Despite her fear of heights, she climbed the mountain.
In spite of training hard, he didn’t win the competition.
"Although / Though / Even Though"
Used directly with a complete clause (S + V).
Examples:
Although she had never painted before, her first artwork was impressive.
He continued to play the piano even though his fingers were injured.
How to Convert Between Structures
If you want to convert a sentence from although to in spite of, transform the clause into a noun phrase or gerund.
Example 1:
Although the exam was difficult, she passed. → Despite the difficulty of the exam, she passed.
Example 2:
Even though he trained hard, he did not win. → In spite of training hard, he did not win.
Example 3:
Although she was nervous, she gave a great presentation. → Despite the fact that she was nervous, she gave a great presentation.
4. Notes on Using "In Spite Of"
Do not use a full clause directly after "in spite of."
If you use a clause, you must include "the fact that."
"In spite of" can be placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence.
5. Exercises on "In Spite Of" Structures (With Answers)
Exercise 1: Combine the sentences using the word in brackets.
Laura wants to fly. She feels afraid. (in spite of the fact)
Trevor didn't notice the sign. It was right in front of him. (even though)
I'm no better. I've taken the pills. (despite the fact)
Matthew doesn't know French. It was one of his school subjects. (though)
Henry's friend is a millionaire. He hates spending money. (despite)
We couldn't get tickets. We queued for an hour. (in spite of)
I had met her twice before. I didn’t recognize her. (although)
Laura felt unwell. She went on working. (in spite of this)
I told the truth. No one believed me. (even though)
The goods were never delivered. We had received the promise. (despite)
Answers:
Laura wants to fly in spite of the fact that she feels afraid.
Trevor didn't notice the sign even though it was right in front of him.
I'm no better despite the fact that I've taken the pills.
Matthew doesn't know French though it was one of his school subjects.
Despite being a millionaire, Henry's friend hates spending money.
We couldn't get tickets in spite of queuing for an hour.
Although I had met her twice before, I didn’t recognize her.
Laura felt unwell. In spite of this, she went on working.
Even though I told the truth, no one believed me.
The goods were never delivered despite the promise we had received.
Exercise 2: Fill in the blanks using in spite of / despite / although / even though / though
Phrases to use:
its inherent dangers
its many benefits
It has been shown to be safe
not playing very well
I had never seen her before
the low salary
his fear of heights
her grades were low
It was sunny
he has a very important job
Answers:
Although he has a very important job, he is not particularly well-paid.
Nuclear energy is used in spite of its inherent dangers.
Although it was sunny, it was quite a cold day.
Despite its many benefits, chemotherapy has side effects.
Many avoid using a microwave even though it has been shown to be safe.
Though I had never seen her before, I recognized her.
Mark accepted the job in spite of the low salary.
Although her grades were low, she was admitted to the university.
Despite his fear of heights, Carl enjoyed the helicopter trip.
United won 1-0 in spite of not playing very well.
Master "In Spite Of" for a Higher IELTS Score with IDP
"In spite of" is commonly used to express contrast in English. While it shares meaning with although, though, and even though, each structure follows different grammar rules. Understanding these differences is essential for writing and speaking accurately in the IELTS test.
To succeed in IELTS Academic or IELTS General, use grammar structures like "in spite of" correctly to boost your Writing and Speaking scores. If you're preparing for the test, be sure to check the IELTS exam dates, IELTS fees, and try a free IELTS mock test with IDP.
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