A contrast can show that an action did not lead to the expected result.
The idea
Put an -ing form after despite or in spite of. The person doing that action is normally the subject of the main clause.
Examples
- Despite leaving early, Maya missed the train.
- In spite of feeling nervous, Leo asked a question.
- Despite practising every day, I still make mistakes.
- In spite of checking the map, we took the wrong path.
- The children played outside despite wearing their new shoes.
- Nora enjoyed the concert in spite of standing at the back.
Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.
No English device voice is available. You can still read the examples.
Watch out
Do not add of after despite, and do not put a finite clause directly after either expression.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. Despite ___ tired, Sam finished the report. (being / be)
Show answer or example answer
being
being describes Sam’s state while Sam finished the report.
Choose the correct option. In spite of ___ the bus, we arrived on time. (missing / miss)
Show answer or example answer
missing
missing names the action that did not prevent our timely arrival.
Choose the correct option. ___ studying hard, Ana did not pass. (Despite / Despite of)
Show answer or example answer
Despite
Despite fits without an extra of.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. Despite ___ tired, Sam finished the report. (being / be)
Choose the correct option. In spite of ___ the bus, we arrived on time. (missing / miss)
Choose the correct option. ___ studying hard, Ana did not pass. (Despite / Despite of)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Keep your progress
Sign up for free to save your practice results.
Sign up to saveI already have an accountUse it today
Write a sentence about something you did despite facing a difficulty.