Unexpected Results
Adverb Clauses with Unexpected Outcomes
Adverb Clauses Showing Opposition (Unexpected Result)
When the result of the main clause is contrary to expectations, use adverb clauses with 'although', 'even though', 'despite' or 'in spite of'.
Although things look bleak economically, wise investment during this time can pay off.
Though the report's date of issue was last year, the information is still relevant to our company.
Even though the stock is low, a new shipment has been ordered.
'Although', 'even though', and 'though' all introduce a full clause that includes both subject and verb. The three expressions can be used interchangeably.
Although
Example:
I decided to open a savings bank account although I wanted to open a fixed bank account.
Though
Example:
Though the market was crashing, he continued to invest money into his 401K.
Even though
Example:
The double entry items remained on the report even though the bank officer disagreed with its relevance.
Prepositions
Despite
'Despite' and 'in spite of' are followed by a noun or noun phrase and are followed by a comma when introducing the sentence. If 'despite' or 'in spite of' are used in the middle of a sentence, no commas are required. Use 'despite' or 'in spite of' when the result of the main clause is contrary to expectations,
Example:
Despite economically difficult times the company continued to receive deferred revenue.
In spite of
'In spite of' is followed by a noun (phrase) and is followed by a comma when introducing the sentence. If 'in spite of' is used in the middle of a sentence, no comma is required.
Example:
In spite of the complexity, the as per invoice costs were offered as clearly as possible to the client.
Payment is expected, as per invoice, in spite of previous correspondence.
'Despite' and 'in spite of' convey the same unexpected result and can be used interchangeably.