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'.
In spite of the government bond, we still don't have enough money to get started.
Though the report's date of issue was last year, the information is still relevant to our company.
The double entry items remained on the report even though the bank officer disagreed with its relevance.
'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:
The customer decided to protest a bill although she couldn't find her receipt.
Though
Example:
Though they spoke until the last minutes of the meeting, I don't feel like much was accomplished.
Even though
Example:
Even though the stock is low, a new shipment has been ordered.
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 her loss of income, she maintained her income by tapping into other areas of 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:
The daughter was ruled to be the beneficiary of the estate, in spite of the court challenge.
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.
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