English Reference

Word

although

Phoneticsal·though, stress on the second syllable

US/ˌɔɫˈðoʊ/

UK/ɒlðˈəʊ/

Definitions

01despite the fact that

A2 · Elementary

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

conj. 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.

Pitfall

Although it was cold, but he didn't wear a coat.

Although it was cold, he didn't wear a coat.

Do not use 'but' in the same sentence as 'although'. One conjunction is enough to show the contrast.

Teaching tip

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

Synonyms

even thoughthoughdespite the fact

02but / however

B1 · Intermediate

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

conj. 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.

Real-World Examples

“Not as bad as I expected, I'm relieved to learn. While there are UPFs in there, that doesn't necessarily make it an unhealthy food shop. In fact, Hanan says, "there's a good mix of foods which cover each food group", although some products have a long ingredient list.”
bbc.com 2 Oct 2026
“The findings, published late on Thursday in the Wiley journal Sustainable Development, are a challenge for those ⁠advocating robusta as a means of weathering climate change in the coffee industry, although demand for robusta grows around the world.”
Reuters 28 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Middle English althagh, from Old English compound of eall (“all (emphatic)”) + þēah (“though”). By surface analysis, al(l) + though.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

CONJUNCTION

although(A2)

Grammar

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-2
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference