Unexpected Results
Adverb Clauses with Unexpected Outcomes
Adverb Clauses Showing Opposition (Unexpected Result)
When the result of the main clause is contrary to expectations, use adverb clauses with 'although', 'even though', 'despite' or 'in spite of'.
Even though the stock is low, a new shipment has been ordered.
In spite of the good year we had, our government bond will no longer be an option.
Finding a date of issue for this receipt, though time-consuming, would save the company hundreds.
'Although', 'even though', and 'though' all introduce a full clause that includes both subject and verb. The three expressions can be used interchangeably.
Although
Example:
I decided to open a savings bank account although I wanted to open a fixed bank account.
Though
Example:
Finding a date of issue for this receipt, though time-consuming, would save the company hundreds.
Even though
Example:
The deferred payments application was approved even though the loan officer was warned about his poor credit score.
Prepositions
Despite
'Despite' and 'in spite of' are followed by a noun or noun phrase and are followed by a comma when introducing the sentence. If 'despite' or 'in spite of' are used in the middle of a sentence, no commas are required. Use 'despite' or 'in spite of' when the result of the main clause is contrary to expectations,
Example:
Despite her loss of income, she maintained her income by tapping into other areas of revenue.
In spite of
'In spite of' is followed by a noun (phrase) and is followed by a comma when introducing the sentence. If 'in spite of' is used in the middle of a sentence, no comma is required.
Example:
Payment is expected, as per invoice, in spite of previous correspondence.
In spite of the good year we had, our government bond will no longer be an option.
'Despite' and 'in spite of' convey the same unexpected result and can be used interchangeably.