Though and although are both used to introduce a contrast, there is a subtle difference in their usage. Although introduces the idea that two things are different, though stresses that the difference is not important. In other words, use although when you want to emphasize the contrast and use though when you want to play down the contrast.
What is Although?
Although is a subordinating conjunction, which means it connects two clauses where one clause is dependent on the other. The dependent clause typically contains the subject, and the independent clause typically contains the predicate. For example, Although I am taller than average, I still have to duck when I go through doorways. The first clause, “I am taller than average,” is dependent because it would not make sense without the second clause. In this sentence, the second clause explains why the first clause is true.
Although can also be used to contrast two ideas, as in Although she is very intelligent, she does not do well in school. In this sentence, Although contrasts the two ideas of intelligence and school performance. Although can also be used to introduce an afterthought or an exception to what has been said, as in We had a great time on our vacation, although we did get sunburned. In this sentence, Although introduces an exception to the idea that the vacation was great. Although is followed by a comma when it is used at the beginning of a sentence.
What is Though?
Though is a word that is used to connect two ideas that are contrasting. Though can be used as a conjunction, preposition, or adverb. When used as a conjunction, though introduces a subordinate clause. The subordinate clause usually provides information that explains or contrasts with the main clause. For example, “I was surprised to hear that he had quit his job, though I shouldn’t have been.” In this sentence, the subordinate clause “though I shouldn’t have been” explains the main clause “I was surprised to hear that he had quit his job.” When used as a preposition, though indicates that two ideas are contrasting.
For example, “He didn’t get the job because he wasn’t qualified, though he met all of the other requirements.” In this sentence, the contrasting ideas are “he wasn’t qualified” and “he met all of the other requirements.” Though can also be used as an adverb. When used in this way, though indicates that two ideas are contrasted in degree. For example,” Though she was tired, she decided to go for a run.” In this sentence, the idea of being tired is contrasted with the idea of going for a run.
Difference between Although and Though
Although and though are both conjunctions that are used to introduce subordinate clauses. Although is used to express contrast or show that something is unexpected, whereas though is used to show that two things are equally true. Although can be used at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence, but though can only be used in the middle of a sentence.
Although is followed by a comma, though is not. Although and though may seem similar, there are some important differences between them. Although expresses contrast more strongly than though, and it can be used at the beginning of a sentence, whereas though can only be used in the middle of a sentence. Although and though are both useful conjunctions, and choosing the right one will help you to express yourself more accurately.
Conclusion
Although and though are often confused for one another, they have different meanings. Though is used as a conjunction to mean “in spite of the fact that,” while although is used to introduce a clause that contrasts with the main clause. In other words, use though when you want to emphasize the contrast between two things, while use although when you want to soften the contrast. When in doubt, use although – it’s less likely to cause confusion than though.
