These four words show a contrast: something happens, but you would expect the opposite. They mean almost the same thing. The difference is what comes after them.
1. Although / Even though + a full sentence
After them, you need a subject and a verb.
- Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
- She took the job even though the salary was low.
Even though is stronger than although. Though also works, in a more informal style.
2. Despite / In spite of + a noun or -ing
- Despite the rain, we went for a walk.
- In spite of the low salary, she took the job.
- Despite feeling tired, he finished the report.
They mean the same. "Despite" is a little more formal and more common in writing.
3. Despite the fact that + a full sentence
To use a full sentence after despite or in spite of, add the fact that.
- Despite the fact that it was raining, we went for a walk.
4. Even though vs. even if
- Even though it's expensive, I'll buy it. (It is expensive: a fact.)
- Even if it's expensive, I'll buy it. (I don't know the price yet.)
5. Common mistakes
- ❌ Despite of the rain, the concert went ahead.
- ✅ Despite the rain / In spite of the rain, the concert went ahead.
- ❌ Despite it was late, they kept working.
- ✅ Although it was late, they kept working.
- ❌ Although the traffic, we arrived on time.
- ✅ Despite the traffic, we arrived on time.
- ❌ Although it was cold, but we went swimming.
- ✅ Although it was cold, we went swimming. (Never "although" and "but" in the same sentence.)
