Correct the error: Despite of the noise, I slept well.

Despite the noise, I slept well.

Despite / In spite of / Although

B1 Intermediate

These connectors show contrast between two ideas. They explain that something happened even though there was a reason for it not to happen.

Overview

Although, despite, and in spite of all have the same basic meaning. They connect a surprising or contrasting result to a specific situation. The main difference is the grammatical structure that follows them.

Using Although

although + subject + verb

Use although before a full clause. This means you must include a subject and a verb after it.

Using Despite and In Spite Of

despite / in spite of + noun / -ing form

Use despite or in spite of before a noun, a pronoun, or a verb ending in -ing. Do not use a subject and a verb directly after these words.

Grammar Comparison

Note that despite does not use the word 'of'. Only in spite of requires it.

Connector	Followed by...	Example
Although	Subject + Verb	Although it was cold...
Despite	Noun / -ing	Despite the cold...
In spite of	Noun / -ing	In spite of the cold...

Examples

Common mistakes

Despite of the rain, we went out.
Despite the rain, we went out.
Do not use 'of' after despite.
Although the rain, we went out.
Although it was raining, we went out.
Although must be followed by a clause with a verb.

Practice

Complete the sentence: ______ having a headache, he enjoyed the party.
Show answer
Despite / In spite of
Answer:Despite / In spite of
Why:The sentence uses an -ing verb (having), so you must use despite or in spite of.
Complete the sentence: ______ it was expensive, I bought the phone.
Show answer
Although
Answer:Although
Why:The sentence uses a subject (it) and a verb (was), which requires although.
Correct the error: Despite of the noise, I slept well.
Show answer
Despite the noise, I slept well.
Answer:Despite the noise, I slept well.
Why:The word despite is never followed by 'of'.