conjunction

even though

EE-vuhn THOH

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Even though (conjunction) means used to introduce a fact that makes the main statement surprising; a stronger form of 'although'. Example: “Even though it was raining, they played the whole match.”

conjunction

Used to introduce a fact that makes the main statement surprising; a stronger form of 'although'.

"Even though it was raining, they played the whole match."

"She kept the shop open even though she was losing money."

How to use even though

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsed to say that something happened in spite of something else that was true.

When to use it

Neutral; suitable in both speech and formal writing.

Memory tip

'Even though' is followed by a clause with a subject and verb; 'despite' and 'in spite of' are followed by a noun or -ing form.

Easily confused with

even if → although → despite → in spite of

Common pairings

even though it was even though I knew even though he had

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “even though” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ it was raining, they played the whole match.

Synonyms

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although though despite the fact that notwithstanding that

Related words

as but however though although whereas whilst tho

Rhymes for even though

cough rough dough bough tough enough though plough slough trough clough through

See all rhymes for even though →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between 'even though' and 'even if'?

'Even though' introduces something that is true: 'Even though it's raining, I'm going' means it is raining. 'Even if' introduces something hypothetical: 'Even if it rains, I'm going' means it may or may not rain, and the outcome is the same either way.

What is the difference between 'even though' and 'although'?

They are grammatically identical and interchangeable in most sentences. 'Even though' is stronger, drawing more attention to the contrast, while 'although' is the neutral, slightly more formal choice.

Can you use 'but' after 'even though'?

No. 'Even though' already links the two clauses, so adding 'but' doubles the connector. Write 'Even though he was tired, he finished' rather than 'Even though he was tired, but he finished'.

What is the meaning of even though?

"even though" (conjunction) means used to introduce a fact that makes the main statement surprising; a stronger form of 'although'.

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as but however though although whereas whilst tho