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'.
In spite of what we found in the laboratory, the product behaved differently in the real world.
She chose Indiana for her just-in-time manufacturing business, even though it was 1000 miles away from her market.
Though assessing the significance of production progress and human capital was difficult, we proceeded to do it.
'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:
We decided to create an item profile, although this took extra time.
Though
Example:
Though assessing the significance of production progress and human capital was difficult, we proceeded to do it.
Even though
Example:
She chose to continue to manufacture, even though production standards were evolving and changing.
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 the errors in the production statement, the Fed allowed the merger.
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:
In spite of what we found in the laboratory, the product behaved differently in the real world.
In spite of the production value ratio of new product in these three cities, New York still dominates the market.
'Despite' and 'in spite of' convey the same unexpected result and can be used interchangeably.