Contrast Connectors: Despite, In Spite Of, Although, Though

This exercise practises choosing between two types of contrast connector: despite / in spite of (followed by a noun or -ing form) and although / though (followed by a clause with subject + verb). Both types express the same meaning — something surprising or unexpected — but require different grammar. "Despite the traffic, we arrived on time" uses a noun. "Although there was traffic, we arrived on time" uses a clause. Knowing which structure to use after each connector is one of the most tested grammar points at B1-B2 level.

The most common mistake is mixing the two grammar patterns — writing "despite there was traffic" (wrong) instead of "despite the traffic" or "although there was traffic." Remember: despite and in spite of are prepositions, so they need a noun or gerund. Although and though are conjunctions, so they need a clause. When you can use either type, the preposition forms (despite/in spite of) often sound more concise and formal. Practising both forms helps you write more flexibly, which is a valuable skill for Cambridge Preliminary and First examinations.