Although vs. However: What's the Difference?
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use 'although' to join two ideas into one sentence, and 'however' to start a new sentence after a full stop.
- Although joins two clauses: 'Although it rained, we played.' (No comma after although)
- However starts a new sentence: 'It rained. However, we played.' (Always use a comma after)
- Never use 'but' in the same sentence as 'although'—it is redundant.
Overview
Although and however are crucial grammatical tools in English for introducing contrasting information, concessions, or shifts in thought. While both convey a sense of opposition, their grammatical functions, placement, and the nuance they impart differ significantly. Understanding this distinction is fundamental for constructing clear, sophisticated sentences, especially at the B1 CEFR level and beyond.
This article will deconstruct these differences, providing a framework for their correct and effective application in both spoken and written English.
Although functions as a subordinating conjunction. It connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, creating a single, complex sentence. The although-clause presents information that contrasts with the main idea, but it is grammatically subordinate to that main idea.
Consider the sentence: Although it was cold, we still enjoyed the picnic. Here, the fact that it was cold is acknowledged, but the primary focus remains on we still enjoyed the picnic.
Conversely, however operates as a conjunctive adverb. It links two independent clauses or even two separate sentences, signaling a strong shift or opposition between complete thoughts. However does not subordinate one idea to another; instead, it establishes a relationship of contrast between two equally significant statements.
For example: The presentation was long. However, the content was exceptionally insightful. Each statement could stand alone, with however acting as a bridge that highlights their contrasting nature.
How This Grammar Works
although and however, you must first understand their fundamental grammatical categories and the structures they govern. This is not merely a stylistic choice; it dictates the very architecture of your sentences.Although as a Subordinating Conjunctionalthough introduces a dependent clause (also known as a subordinate clause). A dependent clause contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it relies on an independent clause for full meaning. The although-clause provides background information, a concession, or a condition that contrasts with the main action or statement in the independent clause.despite the fact that.although is used, the dependent clause becomes an integral part of a larger complex sentence. This grammatical structure allows you to present a contrasting idea smoothly and efficiently within a single coherent thought. The contrast introduced by although is often perceived as softer or more integrated into the overall message, as the concession is directly tied to the main clause.- Example:
Although she had studied extensively, she still felt nervous for the exam.(The nervousness is understood in spite of the extensive study.) - Example:
They decided to go hiking, although the weather forecast predicted rain.(Their decision is made despite the rain prediction.) - Example:
Although the restaurant was highly recommended, the service was surprisingly slow.(The slow service occurred even though the restaurant had good recommendations.)
although-clause sets up an expectation that is then contradicted or qualified by the independent clause. This grammatical interdependence is key: remove the independent clause, and the although-clause (Although she had studied extensively) feels incomplete.However as a Conjunctive AdverbHowever functions as a conjunctive adverb. Unlike subordinating conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs connect two independent clauses or two separate sentences. An independent clause is a complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence.however is used, it signals a relationship of contrast or opposition between these two distinct, complete ideas. It acts as a transitional element, guiding the reader from one complete thought to a contrasting one.however connects two independent clauses, it does not create a complex sentence in the same way although does. Instead, it creates a compound sentence (when used with a semicolon) or links two simple sentences. The contrast introduced by however is generally stronger and more emphatic than that of although, as it explicitly highlights a break or shift between two separate points.nevertheless, in contrast, or on the other hand.- Example:
The project had a tight deadline; however, the team managed to deliver it on time.(Two complete thoughts are linked with a strong contrast.) - Example:
He was exhausted from the long journey. However, he insisted on attending the meeting.(Two separate sentences, withhoweverhighlighting the contrasting action.) - Example:
Many students found the material challenging; however, they persevered and achieved good grades.(Perseverance contrasts with the challenge, presented as two distinct ideas.)
However can also function as an adverb meaning in whatever way or no matter how, but in the context of contrasting ideas, its role as a conjunctive adverb is primary. This distinction in grammatical function – although creating complex sentences through subordination, however linking independent clauses or sentences as a transition – is the core principle behind their correct usage.Formation Pattern
although and however is critical for clear communication. Incorrect usage can lead to grammatically unsound sentences or misinterpretations of your intended meaning.
although
Although integrates the contrasting idea directly into the main sentence. There are two primary patterns:
Although + Dependent Clause, Independent Clause.
although-clause comes before the independent clause, it is always followed by a comma.
Although + Subject + Verb + ..., Main Clause. | Although the economy is struggling, new businesses are still opening. |
Although + Dependent Clause, Main Clause. | Although she prepared extensively, the interview was still difficult. |
Although the rain poured down, we continued our outdoor concert.
Although he rarely expresses emotion, his actions always show how much he cares.
although + Dependent Clause.
although, especially if the dependent clause is essential information. However, a comma can be used for emphasis or if the although-clause feels like an afterthought.
although + Subject + Verb + ... | I completed the report although I felt unwell. |
although + Dependent Clause. | They appreciated the gesture although it was small. |
She accepted the job although the salary was lower than she hoped.
The team celebrated their win although they knew the next match would be tougher.
however
However creates a stronger break between ideas, requiring specific punctuation to ensure grammatical correctness. There are three main patterns:
however, Independent Clause.
;) before however and a comma (,) after however. The semicolon is crucial because it connects two closely related independent clauses without making them separate sentences.
however, Main Clause. | The data was compelling; however, the conclusion was flawed. |
The initial plan seemed feasible; however, unforeseen complications arose.
Students were encouraged to ask questions; however, few took advantage of the opportunity.
However, Independent Sentence.
however. A period ends the first independent sentence, and however begins the second sentence, followed by a comma.
However, Sentence 2. | The budget was tight. However, they managed to find sufficient funding. |
The weather conditions deteriorated rapidly. However, the rescue mission proceeded as planned.
Many challenges still lie ahead. However, we are confident in our ability to overcome them.
However can also appear in the middle or at the end of the second independent clause to add emphasis or for stylistic variation. When placed in the middle or at the end, it is typically set off by commas.
however, Verb + Object. | The proposal was rejected. The committee, however, requested a revision. |
however. | The experiment failed. The results were still insightful, however. |
The deadline was missed. The project lead, however, took full responsibility.
She missed her flight. She managed to catch the next one, however, and arrived only an hour late.
When To Use It
although and however is not arbitrary; it depends on the desired emphasis, the relationship between the ideas, and the overall flow of your writing or speech. Each word serves a distinct rhetorical purpose.although when:- Integrating a concession within a single thought:
Althoughis ideal for presenting a contrasting fact or condition that does not fundamentally negate the main statement but rather offers a qualifying context. The concession is presented as secondary to the main idea. - Example:
Although the journey was arduous, the breathtaking views made it worthwhile.(The arduousness is acknowledged but doesn't diminish the worth of the views.) - Creating a smooth, grammatically complex sentence: When you want to combine two related but contrasting ideas into one fluid sentence,
althoughis the appropriate choice. This often results in a more sophisticated and academic tone. - Example:
Although modern technology offers many conveniences, it also presents new security challenges. - Emphasizing the main clause: The
although-clause typically sets up an expectation that the main clause then subverts. The main clause carries the primary weight of your message. - Example:
Although the restaurant had excellent reviews, we found the atmosphere rather noisy.(The noise is the surprising element, despite the reviews.) - Expressing a fact or condition that is true but unexpected given the main clause.
- Example:
Although he is a well-known author, he prefers to live a private life.
however when:- Making a strong, explicit contrast or counter-argument between two complete ideas:
Howeversignals a clearer break and a more pronounced opposition. It is useful when you want to highlight a pivot or a shift in discussion. - Example:
The company announced record profits this quarter. However, employee satisfaction surveys revealed increasing discontent.(The contrast between profits and discontent is stark.) - Connecting two independent sentences or clauses with a significant logical jump: If the two ideas could stand alone, but you wish to show their opposing relationship,
howeveris effective. It often introduces a point that qualifies, contradicts, or presents an alternative to the preceding statement. - Example:
Many believe that AI will replace human jobs. However, others argue that it will create new opportunities. - Initiating a shift in a paragraph or argument:
Howeveris commonly used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a new, contrasting point, especially in essays, reports, or formal discussions. - Example:
The government's new policy aims to reduce unemployment. However, critics point out that it may disproportionately affect certain industries. - Adding an afterthought or qualification with greater emphasis.
- Example:
The project was completed under budget; however, the final product lacked some key features.
Although the price was high, I bought the car. (The high price was a factor, but I bought it anyway – a single, resolved thought.) vs. The price was high. However, I bought the car. (The high price is stated as a fact.Common Mistakes
although and however, primarily concerning punctuation and their distinct grammatical roles. Recognizing these pitfalls is crucial for advancing your English proficiency.However:However is often mistakenly treated as a coordinating conjunction (like but or and) and joined with a comma. This creates a comma splice, a significant grammatical error in English.- Incorrect:
The weather was terrible, however, we decided to go out. - Explanation: A comma cannot join two independent clauses when
howeveris acting as a conjunctive adverb. The two clauses (The weather was terribleandwe decided to go out) are both complete sentences and require a stronger separation. - Correct Solutions:
- Using a semicolon:
The weather was terrible; however, we decided to go out. - Using a period:
The weather was terrible. However, we decided to go out. - Rule: When
howeverconnects two independent clauses, it must be preceded by a semicolon or a period and followed by a comma.
However to Introduce a Dependent Clause:However is a conjunctive adverb, not a subordinating conjunction. It cannot introduce a dependent clause in the way although does.- Incorrect:
However she tried her best, she couldn't solve the problem. - Explanation: The clause
However she tried her bestis an attempt to create a dependent clause, buthoweveris not grammatically capable of doing so in this context. It should bealthoughoreven though. - Correct:
Although she tried her best, she couldn't solve the problem. - Rule: Remember that
althoughintroduces a dependent clause, whilehoweverconnects independent clauses or sentences.
Although to Start a New Sentence without a Main Clause:Although introduces a dependent clause, meaning it cannot stand alone as a complete thought. Beginning a sentence with Although, followed by a complete sentence is incorrect.- Incorrect:
The movie was very engaging. Although, the ending was quite predictable. - Explanation:
Although the ending was quite predictableis a dependent clause. It needs an independent clause to complete its meaning within the same sentence. TheAlthough,here creates a fragment. - Correct Solutions:
- Combine into one sentence:
The movie was very engaging, although the ending was quite predictable. - Use
howeveror rephrase:The movie was very engaging. However, the ending was quite predictable. - Rule: An
although-clause must always be connected to an independent clause within the same sentence.
However:however appears in the middle or at the end of a clause to add contrast (meaning nevertheless), it must be set off by commas on both sides.- Incorrect:
She was tired however she kept working. - Explanation: In this context,
howeveris acting as an adverb modifyingkept working, indicating a contrast. It needs to be separated by commas. - Correct:
She was tired; she kept working, however.orShe was tired; however, she kept working.orShe was tired. She kept working, however. - Rule: If
howeverinterrupts a clause or appears at the end, use commas to set it apart.
Real Conversations
Understanding the theoretical grammar is one aspect; observing how although and however are employed in authentic communication provides practical insight. These words appear across various registers, from informal messaging to formal presentations, each conveying subtle differences in emphasis and tone.
In Texting/Instant Messaging (Informal):
In casual digital communication, brevity is often prioritized. While formal punctuation might be relaxed, the core functions remain.
- Although (often shortened to tho): Integrates a quick caveat or mild concession.
- Party at 8, although I might be a bit late. Traffic's bad. (The lateness is a minor detail tied to the main plan.)
- Finished the report, although it took longer than I expected. (The unexpected duration is a small qualification to the completion.)
- However: Signals a clearer, sometimes more emphatic, shift or counterpoint.
- The movie was okay. However, the ending was a total letdown. (Stronger distinction between 'okay' and 'letdown'.)
- I wanted to meet up. However, I have a sudden commitment. (A clear reason preventing the meeting, presented as a distinct contrasting fact.)
In Work Emails/Professional Discussions (Semi-Formal to Formal):
Here, correct punctuation and precise meaning are more critical. These words help navigate complex situations or deliver nuanced feedback.
- Although: Used to acknowledge a difficulty or a point of consideration before presenting the main solution or positive outcome. It shows a balanced perspective.
- Although we encountered some delays with vendor X, the team worked diligently to stay within the overall project timeline. (Acknowledges delays while highlighting team effort.)
- The proposal is generally strong, although we would recommend reviewing the budget projections for quarter four. (A gentle suggestion for improvement within an overall positive assessment.)
- However: Often used to introduce a crucial contrasting fact, a potential obstacle, or a different viewpoint. It signals a more significant qualification or a shift in focus.
- Our initial market research showed promising results. However, competitor analysis suggests we face stronger resistance than anticipated. (A clear shift from positive to challenging information.)
- The project achieved its primary objectives. However, certain deliverables did not fully meet the client's original specifications. (Highlights a deficiency despite overall success.)
In Casual Conversation (Spoken English):
In spoken English, pauses and intonation often replace written punctuation. Although can sound slightly more formal than though, but both are common.
- Although (though is more common informally): Often used to add a quick, natural-sounding concession.
- It was a great concert, although the tickets were a bit pricey. (The price is a side note to the enjoyment.)
- I love living in the city, although sometimes I miss the quiet of the countryside. (A minor personal preference or reflection.)
- However: Used to introduce a contrasting opinion or a more significant point that wasn't immediately apparent. It often comes after a brief pause.
- I thought the new policy would be effective. However, it seems to have created more problems. (A clear change in perspective or outcome.)
- He said he'd be here by five. However, it's already six, and he hasn't called. (Highlights a discrepancy from an expectation.)
Observing these patterns in real usage reinforces that although tends to integrate contrasts, while however emphasizes a distinct shift or opposition between ideas. Native speakers instinctively choose between them based on the strength of the contrast and the desired sentence structure.
Quick FAQ
although and however can clarify lingering uncertainties and reinforce the distinctions.though instead of although?Yes, though is a common and often more informal alternative to although, especially in spoken English or casual writing. Both function as subordinating conjunctions. Even though is also used and carries a stronger emphasis on the unexpected nature of the contrast.
Though it was late, we continued working.(Informal)Even though it was raining heavily, they didn't cancel the event.(Stronger emphasis)
however always followed by a comma?When however acts as a conjunctive adverb, yes, it is typically followed by a comma when it begins a clause or sentence (e.g., However, I disagree.). If it is placed mid-sentence or at the end for emphasis, it is usually set off by commas on both sides (e.g., The decision, however, was unpopular. or The decision was unpopular, however.). It is important to note that however can also function as an adverb meaning in whatever way (e.g., You can arrange the chairs however you like.), in which case no comma follows.
but and although?But is a coordinating conjunction, connecting two independent clauses of equal grammatical weight (e.g., The movie was good, but the acting was weak.). It signals a direct opposition. Although, on the other hand, is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a dependent clause, making one idea subordinate to the other within a complex sentence (e.g., Although the acting was weak, the movie was good.). Although often conveys a concession, where the information in the although-clause is true but less important than the main clause.
however appear in the middle or end of a sentence?Yes. When however means nevertheless or in spite of that, it can be placed mid-sentence or at the end of a clause. In such cases, it is always set off by commas. This placement can create a slightly more formal or reflective tone. Ensure that it still connects two independent clauses, either separated by a semicolon before the first comma or a period ending the preceding sentence.
The results were inconclusive; the experiment, however, provided valuable insights.They faced numerous setbacks. They persisted, however, and achieved their goal.
whereas similar to although?Yes, whereas is also a subordinating conjunction that shows contrast. However, whereas is generally more formal and is typically used to draw a direct comparison or highlight a stark difference between two facts or situations, often in a more factual or legalistic context. It contrasts two clauses directly. While although often concedes a point, whereas typically points out a difference between two parallel ideas.
Whereas the northern region experiences heavy rainfall, the south remains arid.
although and however could technically work?You can often rephrase a sentence to use either, but the grammatical structure and the emphasis will change. For example:
Although the team lost the match, they played exceptionally well.(Single complex sentence, loss is secondary to good play.)The team lost the match. However, they played exceptionally well.(Two distinct ideas, strong emphasis on the excellent play despite the loss.)
although) or present it as a more distinct shift or counterpoint (however).despite and in spite of?Despite and in spite of are prepositions, not conjunctions. This means they must be followed by a noun phrase or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb acting as a noun), not a full clause (subject + verb). They convey a similar contrasting meaning to although (notwithstanding), but with a different grammatical structure.
Despite the heavy rain, we enjoyed our trip.(Noun phrase:the heavy rain)In spite of feeling tired, she continued her work.(Gerund phrase:feeling tired)- Compare with
Although it rained heavily, we enjoyed our trip.(Full clause:it rained heavily)
although be used at the end of a sentence?While though can informally appear at the end of a sentence (e.g., It was a good movie, I didn't like the ending though.), although typically does not. Although maintains its function as a subordinating conjunction and therefore needs to introduce a clause that is syntactically connected to a main clause. Using although at the end of a sentence in this way would generally be considered ungrammatical or highly awkward in standard English.
Sentence Structure Comparison
| Connector | Grammar Type | Punctuation | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Although
|
Subordinating Conjunction
|
Comma between clauses
|
Start or Middle
|
|
However
|
Conjunctive Adverb
|
Full stop before, comma after
|
Start, Middle, or End
|
|
Even though
|
Subordinating Conjunction
|
Comma between clauses
|
Start or Middle
|
|
But
|
Coordinating Conjunction
|
Comma before 'but'
|
Middle only
|
|
Though
|
Conjunction / Adverb
|
Comma between clauses
|
Start, Middle, or End
|
Meanings
Both words are used to show a contrast or an unexpected result between two ideas, but they function differently in sentence structure.
Subordinating Conjunction (Although)
Used to introduce a subordinate clause that contains a statement that makes the main clause seem surprising.
“Although the sun was shining, it was quite cold.”
“I enjoyed the film although it was very long.”
Conjunctive Adverb (However)
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or contradicts something that has just been said.
“The sun was shining. However, it was quite cold.”
“The hotel was expensive. It was, however, very dirty.”
Emphasis/Parenthetical (However)
Used in the middle or at the end of a sentence to add a slight contrast or nuance to the previous thought.
“I don't like coffee. I do like tea, however.”
“The results, however, were not what we expected.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Although (Start)
|
Although + Clause 1, Clause 2
|
Although it was cold, we went swimming.
|
|
Although (Middle)
|
Clause 1 although Clause 2
|
We went swimming although it was cold.
|
|
However (Start)
|
Sentence 1. However, Sentence 2
|
It was cold. However, we went swimming.
|
|
However (Semicolon)
|
Sentence 1; however, Sentence 2
|
It was cold; however, we went swimming.
|
|
However (Parenthetical)
|
Subject, however, Verb...
|
The water, however, was quite warm.
|
|
However (End)
|
Sentence 1. Sentence 2, however.
|
It was cold. We went swimming, however.
|
|
Even though
|
Even though + Clause 1, Clause 2
|
Even though it was cold, we swam.
|
Formality Spectrum
The project faces significant challenges; however, we remain committed to the deadline. (Workplace/Project Management)
Although the project is difficult, we will finish it on time. (Workplace/Project Management)
It's a tough project, but we're gonna finish it anyway. (Workplace/Project Management)
This project is a beast. We're gonna crush it though. (Workplace/Project Management)
The Contrast Connectors
One Sentence (Glue)
- Although Although it's late, I'm working.
- Even though Stronger contrast
Two Sentences (Bridge)
- However It's late. However, I'm working.
- Nevertheless Very formal
Punctuation Rules
Which one should I use?
Are you joining two ideas in ONE sentence?
Are you starting a NEW sentence?
Register and Tone
Informal
- • but
- • though (at end)
- • even so
Neutral
- • although
- • however
- • even though
Formal
- • nevertheless
- • nonetheless
- • notwithstanding
Examples by Level
Although it is raining, I will go out.
I like apples. However, I don't like oranges.
Although he is small, he is very strong.
The food was good. However, it was expensive.
Although she studied, she didn't pass.
We arrived late. However, the show hadn't started.
I called him, although I was very angry.
The car is old. However, it still works well.
Although the company is small, it is very successful.
The flight was delayed. However, we managed to arrive on time.
I decided to buy the shoes, although they were over my budget.
The team played well; however, they lost the match.
Although the data suggests otherwise, the theory remains popular.
The government promised reform. However, little has changed in practice.
The new law, however, does not apply to small businesses.
Although having lived in Paris for a decade, he still feels like a tourist.
Although the initial results were promising, subsequent trials failed to replicate them.
The CEO's strategy was bold. It was, however, fraught with significant financial risk.
Although not entirely convinced by the argument, she decided to support the motion.
The project was completed on schedule; however, the quality of the finish left much to be desired.
Although one might argue that the policy is draconian, its efficacy is undeniable.
The aesthetic of the building is striking. However, its functional utility is somewhat compromised.
The manuscript, however flawed in its execution, remains a seminal work of the era.
Although ostensibly a comedy, the play deals with profoundly tragic themes.
Easily Confused
Learners use them with clauses (Subject + Verb) instead of nouns.
Learners use 'but' and 'although' together in one sentence.
Learners aren't sure if it's different from 'although'.
Common Mistakes
Although, it was raining.
Although it was raining,
Although it was raining but we went out.
Although it was raining, we went out.
I like tea, however I don't like coffee.
I like tea. However, I don't like coffee.
I am tired however.
I am tired, however.
He is rich although he is unhappy.
He is rich, although he is unhappy.
However it was late, he stayed.
Although it was late, he stayed.
It was raining; however we went out.
It was raining; however, we went out.
Although the rain, we went out.
Although it was raining, we went out.
The movie was good, however, it was long.
The movie was good; however, it was long.
He didn't win, although playing well.
He didn't win, although he played well.
However he tried, he failed.
However hard he tried, he failed.
Although being a doctor, he couldn't help.
Although he is a doctor, he couldn't help.
The results were, however, not good.
The results, however, were not good.
Sentence Patterns
Although ___, ___.
___. However, ___.
___, although ___.
___; however, ___.
Real World Usage
Although I haven't used this specific software, I am a very fast learner.
I'm super tired. I'll come to the party for an hour, however.
We have received your request. However, we need more information to proceed.
Although the study was limited in scope, the findings are significant.
The hotel looks great. However, it's quite far from the city center.
Although I agree with your first point, I think your second point is wrong.
The 'But' Test
No Double Dipping
Semicolon Sophistication
Ending with 'Though'
Smart Tips
Replace it with 'However,' to immediately sound more professional and academic.
Delete the 'but'. 'Although' already signals the contrast, so 'but' is redundant.
Place 'however' immediately after that word, surrounded by commas.
Remember: 'However' is a heavy word. It needs a 'wall' (full stop or semicolon) before it and a 'cushion' (comma) after it.
Pronunciation
The 'However' Pause
In spoken English, there is always a brief pause after 'however' at the start of a sentence, matching the comma in writing.
Although Stress
The stress is on the second syllable: al-THOUGH. The 'th' is voiced like in 'the'.
Contrastive Rise-Fall
Although it was RAINING (rise), we went OUT (fall).
The rising intonation on the first clause signals that the thought is not yet complete.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Although is 'All-in-one' (one sentence). However is 'Halfway-house' (starts a new half/sentence).
Visual Association
Imagine 'Although' as a piece of tape sticking two papers together. Imagine 'However' as a traffic sign at the start of a new road.
Rhyme
Although starts the sentence flow, However needs a stop to go.
Story
A builder wanted to build a house. Although he had no bricks, he started anyway. He worked for ten hours. However, the walls fell down because he used mud instead of cement.
Word Web
Challenge
Write three sentences about your day. Use 'although' in the first, 'however' in the second, and 'but' in the third.
Cultural Notes
British speakers often use 'though' at the end of a sentence in casual conversation much more frequently than American speakers. 'It was raining. We went out, though.'
In Western academic writing, starting a sentence with 'But' is often discouraged. 'However' is the preferred professional alternative to maintain a formal tone.
Using 'although' at the start of a sentence is seen as a way to deliver bad news gently by acknowledging the positive side first. This is common in 'sandwich' feedback.
'Although' comes from Middle English 'al thagh', a combination of 'all' (completely) and 'though'. 'However' is a combination of 'how' and 'ever'.
Conversation Starters
Although you are busy, what is one hobby you always make time for?
Think of a movie you liked. What was one thing you didn't like about it? (Use 'however')
Although technology makes life easier, what is one way it makes life harder?
Describe your hometown. What is great about it? However, what would you change?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
_______ it was raining, we went for a walk.
Find and fix the mistake:
I like the car, however it is too expensive.
The team played well. _______, they lost the game.
It was cold, but he didn't wear a coat.
You should always put a comma immediately after the word 'although'.
A: Did you enjoy the party? B: Yes, it was fun. _______, I had to leave early.
Select the correct word.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises_______ it was raining, we went for a walk.
Find and fix the mistake:
I like the car, however it is too expensive.
The team played well. _______, they lost the game.
It was cold, but he didn't wear a coat.
You should always put a comma immediately after the word 'although'.
A: Did you enjoy the party? B: Yes, it was fun. _______, I had to leave early.
Select the correct word.
1. Although he is 80... / 2. He is 80. However...
Score: /8
Practice Bank
11 exercisesThe project deadline is tight; ___, we're confident we can meet it.
___ the traffic was bad, I still arrived on time for my interview.
We loved the new cafe. Although, the prices were a bit high.
Choose the correct sentence:
It was a difficult decision, but she eventually made the right choice.
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Match the beginning of the sentence with its correct continuation.
The new software is powerful, ___ it has a steep learning curve.
She knew the answer; although, she hesitated before speaking.
Choose the correct sentence:
He was very busy, but he still found time to help his friend.
Score: /11
FAQ (8)
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to put a comma after it. It is a very common way to start a sentence in professional writing.
No. This is a common mistake. Use one or the other. 'Although it was cold, I went out' OR 'It was cold, but I went out.'
Yes, they are very similar. 'Though' is slightly more informal and can also be used at the end of a sentence, which 'although' cannot do.
'Nevertheless' is much more formal and emphatic than 'however'. It means 'despite what has just been said'.
The comma goes at the end of the clause introduced by 'although', not after the word itself. 'Although it was raining [COMMA] we stayed in.'
Only when it means 'in whatever way' (e.g., 'Do it however you like'). When used for contrast, it always needs punctuation.
Neither is 'better', but 'even though' is stronger. Use it when the contrast is very surprising.
This is called a parenthetical use. It adds a slight contrast to a specific word or idea. 'The results, however, were poor.'
Scaffolded Practice
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2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Aunque / Sin embargo
Spanish uses the subjunctive mood with 'aunque' for hypothetical situations.
Bien que / Cependant
French 'bien que' requires the subjunctive mood.
Obwohl / Jedoch
German 'obwohl' changes the word order (verb-final).
...noni / Shikashi
Japanese contrast markers often come at the end of the clause, not the beginning.
بالرغم من / ومع ذلك
Arabic often uses 'and' (wa) before the 'however' equivalent.
虽然 (suīrán) / 然而 (rán'ér)
Chinese requires a 'but' equivalent to follow an 'although' equivalent.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Related Videos
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