even though

Meanings

1. 1conjunction

   Used to introduce a fact that makes the main statement seem surprising or unexpected.

   Grammar: Joins two clauses; the clause after it states the surprising fact, and the other clause gives the result that still happens: Even though it rained, we went out.

   Patterns

   • even though + clause
   • even though someone does something
   • even though something is true
   • main clause + even though + clause

   Even though she had studied for weeks, she still felt nervous before the exam.

   He kept working even though his back was hurting badly.

   Even though the tickets were expensive, the concert was completely sold out.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   Used at the start of a sentence to concede a point before giving a contrasting opinion.

   Grammar: Often comes first in the sentence, followed by a comma: Even though I like him, I don't agree with him.

   Patterns

   • even though + clause, + main clause

   Even though I admire his writing, I found this novel slow and repetitive.

   Even though the plan sounds good in theory, nobody has explained how we would pay for it.

Common combinations

even though it rains

Even though it rains almost every day here, the farmers still need more water.

even though he tried

Even though he tried his hardest, he came second in the race.

even though I know

Even though I know the answer, I still can't explain why it's correct.

even though it costs more

We chose the train even though it costs more than the bus.

even though everyone says

Even though everyone says the film is bad, I'd like to see it for myself.

Synonyms and how they differ

although

Neutral and slightly more formal; it states a contrast without emphasizing how surprising it is.

though

More informal and can also come at the end of a sentence, which 'even though' cannot.

despite the fact that

Longer and more formal; useful in essays when you want a heavier, written tone.

Word family

though conjunction

A shorter, less emphatic way to introduce a contrast.

although conjunction

A neutral contrast word, common in both speech and writing.

even if phrase

Introduces a possible or imagined situation, not a known fact: Even if it rains, we'll go.

Commonly confused: even though or even if? even though or despite?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “even though”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words