Contrast: Despite and In Spite Of
B1-B2 Level
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If you want to use a full clause after despite or in spite of, add the fact that: "Despite the fact that it was raining, we went out." This longer form is grammatically correct but less elegant — in many cases, you can simply rewrite with a noun or gerund instead. A very common learner mistake is putting a clause directly after "despite": "Despite it was raining" is always wrong. Remembering this rule — despite + noun/-ing, not despite + clause — is one of the most important grammar points for B1-B2 level examinations, including Cambridge Preliminary and First.
Quick Rule
despite / in spite of + noun / -ing form (NOT a clause)
- 1.Despite the heavy rain, we enjoyed the outdoor concert. (noun after despite)
- 2.She passed the exam in spite of being ill on the day. (gerund after in spite of)
- 3.He didn't get the job despite having ten years of experience. (negative + gerund)
- 4.In spite of the cold weather, we went for a long walk. (noun after in spite of)
- 5.I felt happy despite not sleeping well the night before. (negative gerund)
All 20 questions
Rewrite the sentence using the word given in brackets. The meaning must stay the same. Start your answer after the prompt.
Although the weather was bad, we had a great picnic. (Despite)
Despite
Although she was injured, she won the race. (In spite of)
In spite of
Even though he was exhausted, he finished the marathon. (Despite)
Despite
Although there were technical problems, the concert was amazing. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although he made a lot of effort, he failed the exam. (Despite)
Despite
Although she felt nervous, she smiled. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although the restaurant's prices are high, it's always full. (Despite)
Despite
Although he had no experience, he passed the interview. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although she is old, she's incredibly fit. (Despite)
Despite
Although their parents objected, they got married. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although she doesn't speak the language, she made many friends. (Despite)
Despite
Although the odds were against them, the team won. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although he is wealthy, he lives a simple life. (Despite)
Despite
Although there were many difficulties, she completed the project. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although they knew the risks, they went ahead with the plan. (Despite)
Despite
Although there was a storm, the flight was on time. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although he was tired, he stayed up late. (Despite)
Despite
Although many things happened, she kept going. (In spite of)
In spite of
Although he has lived abroad for ten years, his accent hasn't changed. (Despite)
Despite
Although there was a lot of pressure, he remained calm. (In spite of)
In spite of
Continue Practising
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