Difference Between Though and Although: Though and Although words are often used as a conjunction, i.e. to connect words, phrases, clauses, or sentences and to show the relationship between the parts that they connect. The relationship which these words represent is “contrast”. The words can be used interchangeably in some cases when used as conjunctions. But, the word ‘Though’ is also used as an Adverb when one needs to show contrast relating to the verb of the sentence.
Although vs Though
Though and Although as Conjunctions
Both “Though” and “Although” are used as subordinating conjunctions, i.e. to join a dependent clause to an independent clause. To be more specific, they are used when the relationship between the two clauses is of contrasting type. In other words, they are used to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses a contrast or concession to the main clause. “Though” means “despite the fact” and “Although” means “even though” or “in spite of the fact”. Let us look at some examples when “though” and “although” are used as conjunctions.
Examples of Although and Though
- Although I am tired, I will go to school.
- Though I am tired, I will go to school.
In this example, “although” and “though” are used as conjunctions to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a concession to the main clause. Both sentences convey the same meaning, the speaker is tired, but he will still go to school.
- Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
- Though it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
In this example, “although” and “though” are used as conjunctions to express a contrast to the main clause. However, “although” is a more formal conjunction, while “though” is more informal. The two sentences convey the same meaning, but the first sentence is more formal.
- Although he is dumb, he passed the test.
- Though he is dumb, he passed the test.
In this example, “although” and “though” are used as conjunctions to express a contrast to the main clause. However, there is a subtle difference in meaning. “Although” suggests a stronger contrast, while “though” suggests a weaker contrast. The first sentence implies that the speaker is surprised that the person passed the test, despite being dumb. The second sentence suggests that the person passing the test, while surprising, is not unexpected given that he is dumb.
Though as an Adverb
As an adverb, the word “though” is used to introduce a subordinate clause that contrasts with the main clause and modifies the verb by adding a sense of contrast or concession. It can also be used to add emphasis or surprise to a statement. Let us look at some examples in which “though” is used as an adverb.
Examples:
- The driver didn’t sleep at night, he drove the car smoothly, though.
- He was not able to clear the exam, though he studied very hard.
- The crew performed well on the stage, though they didn’t practice much.
- Though he was upset, he still helped her when she needed it.
- He wanted to stay longer at the party, though it was getting late.
- Though she tried to hide it, he could see the betrayal in his eyes.
In the examples above, the word “though” is used to add some contrast or emphasis to the highlighted verbs.
Difference between Though and Although
| Though | Although | |
| Meaning | Though is used to mean despite the fact. | Although means even though or in spite of the fact. |
| Usage | It is used as a conjunction and an adverb. | It is used as a conjunction. |
| Example | Though Suraj was suspended, still he went to school. | Although their parents insisted on not going, Jerry went to school. |
Conclusion
To conclude, it can be said that both “though” and “although” are conjunctions that are used to indicate the contrast between the main clause and the subordinate clause of a sentence. “Though” is more common in formal communication than “Although”. Also, “Though” can also be used as an adverb to show some contrast to the action represented by the verb. The alternative conjunctions can be “however”, “yet”, “but”, “still” and “nevertheless” which are also used to show contrast.