What is difference between though and although
by Yogi P - October 18, 2023
Though vs. Although: Untangling the Confusion
Many English language learners get confused with two commonly confused words, ‘though’ and ‘although’. Both are used as conjunctions, but their functions in a sentence are starkly different. Let’s get to the bottom of this confusion.
Though
The word ‘though’ is used as a conjunction, an adverb, and an adjective.
When used as a conjunction, it joins two clauses or sentences and implies surprise at the second clause or sentence. This is similar to how the words ‘but’ or ‘however’ are used.
For example –
- The bicycle was red, though the car was black.
When used as an adverb, it is used to show a contrast between two sentences or two ideas.
For example –
- I thought the exam was difficult, though my friends said it was easy.
When used as an adjective, it is used to mean something that is extraordinary or unexpected.
For example –
- He did an amazing job, though he had no experience.
Although
The word ‘although’ functions as a conjunction, joining two independent clauses or ideas. It acts as a connector and shows a contrast between the ideas given.
Here’s an example –
- Although he was tired, he finished the race.
The Table Summarising the Difference between Though and Although
| Word | Though | Although |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Surprise or unexpected | Contrasting ideas |
| Usage | Conjunction, adverb, adjective | Conjunction |
| Examples | The bicycle was red, though the car was black. I thought the exam was difficult, though my friends said it was easy. |
Although he was tired, he finished the race. |
Difference between Though and Although in different aspects
| Aspect | Though | Although |
|---|---|---|
| Conjunction | Informal | Formal |
| Usage | Often used in casual speech | Used in both casual and formal writing |
| Position | Can be used at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence | Typically used at the beginning of a sentence |
| Meaning | Despite that, however, nevertheless | In spite of the fact that, even though, while |
| Example | Though it rained, we had a great time. | Although it was raining, we had a great time. |
| Synonyms | Although, even if, even though, while | Though, albeit, even if |
| Length | Shorter and less formal | Slightly longer and more formal |
Difference between Though and Although – Meaning and Usage
Both though and although are used to connect two independent clauses, but while the word ‘though’ implies surprise, the word ‘although’ expresses a contrast between two ideas or statements.
Though can also be used as an adverb or an adjective to refer to something that is unexpected or extraordinary. On the other hand, although is only used as a conjunction.
Examples of Difference between Though and Although
For phrases where surprise or astonishment is implied:
- was accepted into the university, though she had mediocre grades>/em>
For phrases contrasting two ideas or situations:
- Although the job sounded interesting, I decided not to apply for it.
For phrases expressing something unexpected or extraordinary:
- He did a good job, though he had no prior experience.
Activity to Enhance Understanding
To test your understanding of these words, try using them in your own sentences. Think of situations or phrases in which you can accurately use these words and craft sentences that illustrate their proper meanings.
Additionally, whenever you come across a phrase with these words, take note of the context in which they are used to gain more practice.
Conclusion
Hopefully you now have a better understanding of the distinction between the words ‘though’ and ‘although’. ‘Though’ can be used to refer to something unexpected or astounding as well as a conjunction to express surprise. On the other hand, ‘although’ is used solely as a conjunction to show a contrast between two ideas or sentences.
It is important to know when and how to use these words accurately, and practice is essential in order to hone your English language skills.
