Grammar: Using "Despite" and "In Spite Of" - JSS2 English language Lesson Note

Definitions

Despite: Used to say that something happened or is true, although there is something that might have prevented it.  Example: "Despite the rain, they went for a walk."

In Spite Of : Similar to "despite," it is used to show that something happened or is true, even though there was something that might have prevented it.

Example: "In spite of the rain, they went for a walk."

Key Points

Structure:

   - "Despite" is followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund (verb + ing).

     - Example: "Despite his efforts, he failed the exam."

    - Example: "Despite being tired, she continued working."

 

   - "In spite of" is followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund (verb + ing).

     - Example: "In spite of the difficulties, they succeeded."

    - Example: "In spite of feeling ill, he went to work."

 

Synonyms : Both "despite" and "in spite of" can often be replaced with "although" or "even though" followed by a clause.

Example: "Although it was raining, they went for a walk."

No Difference in Meaning : There is no significant difference in meaning between "despite" and "in spite of." They are interchangeable in most contexts.

Common Mistakes : Avoid using "of" after "despite."

Incorrect: "Despite of the rain..."

Correct: "Despite the rain..."

Ensure that "in spite of" is used as a phrase without separating the words.

Incorrect: "In spite the rain..."

Correct: "In spite of the rain..."

Examples:

Despite his wealth, he is not happy.

In spite of his wealth, he is not happy.

She enjoyed the trip despite the bad weather.

She enjoyed the trip in spite of the bad weather.

Despite studying hard, she did not pass the test.

In spite of studying hard, she did not pass the test.

Practice Sentences

- Despite the fact that he was inexperienced, he got the job.

- In spite of the delay, the event was a success.

- Despite the team's loss, they remained hopeful.

- In spite of her illness, she attended the conference.

- Despite the warnings, they continued with their plans.

 

"Despite" and "in spite of" are valuable tools for showing contrast in sentences. Understanding their usage helps in writing more complex and nuanced sentences. By practising with various examples and exercises, students can master the use of these phrases in their writing and speech.