# although

/ˌɔɫˈðoʊ/ (US) · /ɒlðˈəʊ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/although
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. despite the fact that

conjunction · CEFR A2

you use this to introduce a fact that makes the rest of your sentence surprising.

For teachers: introduces a concessive clause that contrasts with the main clause; functions as a synonym for 'even though'.

- Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk in the park.
- Although the initial investment was substantial, the long-term savings in energy costs justified the expenditure for the board of directors.

Usage: Can be placed at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle to connect two clauses.

Teaching tip: Learners often try to use 'although' and 'but' together; remind them that 'although' already establishes the contrast.

### 2. but / however

conjunction · CEFR B1

used to add a comment that qualifies or limits what you just said.

For teachers: used to introduce a statement that modifies or limits the preceding one, often functioning similarly to 'however' or 'but'.

- The sun is finally out, although it is still quite cold.
- The results of the study were broadly positive, although several outliers in the data suggest that further research is required.

Usage: In this sense, it usually appears after the main clause to add a clarifying or limiting thought.

Teaching tip: This use is slightly more common in speech for adding an afterthought that softens a previous statement.

## Examples

- Although it is raining, we go for a walk.
- Although the hotel was quite expensive, the service was disappointing and the rooms were small.
- Although the initial data suggested a significant correlation between the two variables, subsequent trials failed to replicate the results under more controlled conditions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.