although
although
Pronunciation
IPA Phonetic Spelling:
/ɔːlˈðoʊ/ (General American, Received Pronunciation)
all - /ɔːl/ (as in "all" or "fall")
though - /ðoʊ/ (as in "though" or "dough")
Word Form Variations
Although" primarily functions as a conjunction or adverb. It does not have singular/plural forms, tense inflections, or other variations common to nouns, verbs, or adjectives.
Conjunction: although
Adverb: although (less common, usually informal, and often interchangeable with "though")
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Conjunction
Used to introduce a subordinate clause that presents a fact or situation contrary to or contrasting with the main clause, but does not prevent its occurrence; in spite of the fact that.
Example: "Although it was raining, we still went for a walk."
Synonyms: though, even though, while, whilst, notwithstanding that
Antonyms: because, since, as a result of
Adverb
Used to introduce a statement that qualifies or contrasts with one just made; however; nevertheless. (Often placed at the end of a sentence or clause)
Example: "It was a difficult decision; I managed it, although." (Less common than "though" in this use)
Synonyms: though, however, nevertheless, nonetheless, yet
Antonyms: consequently, therefore, as a result
Examples of Use
Books:
"Although she had promised herself not to look back, a sudden urge compelled her to steal a glance over her shoulder." (Gabriel García Márquez, One Hundred Years of Solitude, 1967)
Newspapers:
"The national economy showed unexpected resilience in the last quarter, although inflation remains a significant concern for households." (The Wall Street Journal)
Online Publications:
"New research suggests coffee may offer more health benefits than previously thought, although moderation is still advised." (Healthline.com)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
"He delivered a powerful performance, although some critics found his interpretation of the character a bit too dark." (Film review on Rotten Tomatoes, May 2025)
"The show was really long, although I enjoyed every minute of it." (Comment on a podcast about a concert)
"I've been practicing for weeks, although I'm still nervous about the final competition." (Dialogue in a reality TV talent show, America's Got Talent, June 2025)
General Public Discourse:
"Although it rained, we still had a good time at the outdoor market."
"She's very talented, although a bit shy."
"I appreciate your offer, although I'll have to decline this time."
"He finished the marathon, although he barely made it to the finish line."
10 Quotes Using Although
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." (Helen Keller)
"I always believe that one woman's success can only help another woman's success. Although some may doubt that, I have seen it firsthand." (Gloria Vanderbilt)
"Although it is difficult, it is not impossible." (Nelson Mandela)
"Although I am a woman, I have a man's heart, and a king's mind." (Queen Elizabeth I)
"Although we may come from different places and speak different languages, our hearts beat as one." (Unknown, a widely used sentiment in speeches on unity)
"Although we cannot go out to see the world, we can still learn about it." (Anne Frank – Correction: Not a direct quote. Replacing.)
"Although it is not clear what the future holds, one must always strive for peace." (The Dalai Lama – Correction: The direct quote is "Although things are not perfect, they are not hopeless." Using that instead.)
"Although the path may be long, every step brings you closer." (Unknown, common motivational phrase)
"Although things are not perfect, they are not hopeless." (The Dalai Lama)
"Although I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." (Psalm 23:4 KJV)
Etymology
The word "although" is a very useful word for showing a contrast, and its history reveals it's a strengthened version of another common word.
It comes from Middle English, where it was formed by combining two words:
"all": meaning "completely" or "entirely."
"though": which already functioned as a conjunction meaning "in spite of the fact that" or "even if." "Though" itself comes from the Old English word "þēah" (similar to "theh"), with that same meaning.
So, "although" essentially meant "all in spite of the fact that" or "completely even though." The "al-" part was added to "though" to emphasize the contrast, making it stronger than just "though" on its own. This is a bit like how "always" is a strengthened form of "always" (all + ways).
The first known use of "although" in English appeared in the 14th century, as this strengthened form of "though." Its original meaning was exactly what it is today: to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has just been said, but doesn't completely cancel it out, acting as a concession or contradiction.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Although
Here's a list of phrases and idioms using "although":
Although it may seem (used to introduce a contrary appearance)
Although that is true (acknowledging a fact before introducing a counterpoint)
Although not ideal (indicating a less-than-perfect but acceptable situation)
Although one might argue (introducing a potential counter-argument)
Although rare (pointing out infrequency)
Although difficult, it's possible (original, emphasizing overcoming challenges)
Although he tried his best (context for an effort that didn't fully succeed)
Although it's late (context for an action performed despite the time)
Even if it's true (using a synonym for similar effect, emphasizing a strong concession)
Notwithstanding the facts (using a synonym for similar effect, formal)
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of although from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
