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conj A2 Elementary Very common

although

awl-THOH

Although (conj) means despite the fact that; used to introduce a contrast or concession. Example: “Although it was raining, they went ahead with the picnic.”

conj
1
Despite the fact that; used to introduce a contrast or concession.
"Although it was raining, they went ahead with the picnic."
"She took the job, although the pay was lower than she wanted."

How to Use Although

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA conjunction used to link a statement with something that seems to go against it.

Common mistake

Interchangeable with "though" in most cases, but "although" is preferred at the start of a sentence in formal writing.

Easily confused with
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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ it was raining, they went ahead with the picnic.

Etymology

From Middle English althagh, a compound of Old English eall ("all") and þeah ("though") — literally "all though."

Origin: Old English

Related Words

Rhymes for although

See all rhymes for although →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “although” mean?

The word “although” means despite the fact that; used to introduce a contrast or concession. In plain terms, a conjunction used to link a statement with something that seems to go against it.

How do you pronounce “although”?

“Although” is pronounced awl-THOH (/ɔlˈðoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “although” in a sentence?

Here is “although” used in a sentence: “Although it was raining, they went ahead with the picnic.”

What is another word for “although”?

Words with a similar meaning to “although” include even if, albeit and even though.

What part of speech is “although”?

“Although” is a conjunction.

Where does the word “although” come from?

The word “although” comes from Old English. From Middle English althagh, a compound of Old English eall ("all") and þeah ("though") — literally "all though.".

Is “although” a common word?

“Although” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

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