Transition words & linking words : In spite of, despite, even though, although and though

If there are more than two words, they can be called transition phrases as well.

This time we are going to study and analyze the difference between 'in spite of', 'despite', 'although', 'even though', and 'though'.

Each one of them is employed to establish a connection between two opposing viewpoints or to demonstrate how one fact becomes true quickly.

All of them can be used at the beginning or in the middle of the sentence, but with different structures.

Let's talk about this place. Do you recognize it?

Although I don’t like to live in Paris, I think this city is lively (full of energy because of its people).
I think Paris is lively, although I don’t like to live in this city. (This is a strong sentence for the writer)
I think Paris is lively although I don't like to live in.
Even though I don’t like to live in Paris, I think this city is lively.
In spite of its people, Paris is a good place to live in.
Paris is a good place to live in spite of its people.
Despite its people, Paris is a good place to live in.
Paris is a good place to live in despite its people.

"Although", "though", and "even though" can be used in mid-sentence to show contrast between two clauses. If the contrast is not strong, the comma can be omitted. (Click here for more information)

Note 1:

It is common to use in spite of and despite with the expression the fact that, followed by a subject and a verb.

Examples:

In spite of the fact that my father liked Paris, he didn't like its people.

Despite the fact that my father liked Paris, he didn't like its people.

Note 2:

Something that you need to know about though are two things:

though can be used in the same way as although.
though can also go at the end of the second phrase, but this way is more common in spoken English.

Examples:

Though I am living in Paris, I don't like it because it is bustling.

I am living in Paris. I don't like it because it is bustling, though.

Now, it you want to improve your listening and pronunciation of these transition words, watch these videos; they will help you improve your grammar.