Master confusing words with ease
Despite vs. In spite of
Despite
/dɪˈspaɪt/Examples:
But despite her little comforts, Emma did not become happy.The meal was good, despite everything.Despite what you say, I trust Kit,' Mr Brass replied.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
In spite of
/ɪn spaɪt əv/Examples:
In spite of the rain, we went ahead with the picnic.She excelled in spite of facing numerous obstacles.In spite of his objections, the plan proceeded.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Both despite and in spite of are used to show contrast or express an idea contrary to expectations, but they look slightly different.
- Despite is usually followed by a noun or gerund, whereas in spite of is followed by a noun or pronoun and the word of.
- Remember that despite is a single word, while in spite of is a three-word phrase; this can help differentiate them in writing.
- Despite conveys the same meaning as in spite of, but it tends to be more formal and succinct.
- Use despite when you want to cut down on wordiness, as its one word versus the three words in in spite of'.
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