although

American  

[awl-thoh] / ɔlˈðoʊ /

conjunction

1. in spite of the fact that; even though; though.

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although British  

/ ɔːlˈðəʊ /

conjunction

1. (subordinating) despite the fact that; even though

   although she was ill, she worked hard

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Usage

What is a basic definition of although? Although is a conjunction that means in spite of the fact that or even though. Although is used to connect phrases, clauses, or sentences. Generally, although is used to contrast facts, to say that something is true even if it seems to disagree with other information, or to connect statements that have different moods or express different feelings. Used in a sentence:

• I didn’t win the game, although I tried as hard as I could.
• She says red is her favorite color, although she always wears green.
• Although he rarely shows it, Tony loves his son.

Etymology

Origin of although

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English al thogh, equivalent to all (adverb) “even” + though

Compare meaning

How does although compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• albeit vs. although

Example Sentences

Patients can also be taught to use the maneuver if there is a recurrence, although it can be hard to do without assistance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

This is because prisoners can serve multiple sentences at the same time, although on occasion judges impose consecutive sentences which must be served at the end of their main jail term.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The IEA’s estimates are based on an assumption that regular deliveries of oil and gas from the Middle East, although not pre-war levels, resume to international markets by the middle of the year.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

Dell and HP were dropping, although they didn’t give back all of their gains prompted by the report.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

“Think of Old Timothy and Dr. Westminster. And Miss Mortimer and Agatha Swanburne, although I confess, I still cannot see a resemblance between them, at least judging from the portrait. And the Incorrigibles...and Lumawoo, too?”

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood