though

[ thoh ]

conjunction

1. (used in introducing a subordinate clause, which is often marked by ellipsis) notwithstanding that; in spite of the fact that; although:

   Though he tried very hard, he failed the course.

2. even if; granting that (often preceded by even ).

adverb

1. for all that; however.

though

/ ðəʊ /

conjunction

1. sometimes preceded by even despite the fact that

   though he tries hard, he always fails

   poor though she is, her life is happy

2. as though
   as if

   he looked as though he'd seen a ghost

adverb

1. nevertheless; however

   he can't dance: he sings well, though

Confusables Note

Among some conservatives there is a traditional objection to the use of though in place of although as a conjunction. However, the latter (earlier all though ) was originally an emphatic form of the former, and there is nothing in contemporary English usage to justify such a distinction.

Word History and Origins

Origin of though¹

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English thoh, from Old Norse thō; replacing Old English thēah; cognate with German doch, Gothic thauh

Word History and Origins

Origin of though¹

Old English theah; related to Old Frisian thāch, Old Saxon, Old High German thōh, Old Norse thō

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. as though, as if:

   It seems as though the place is deserted.

More idioms and phrases containing though

see as if (though) .

Example Sentences

Even though these types of binary systems should be very common, they have been tricky to find, with only two candidates confirmed within clusters prior to this research.

From Science Daily

A decade ago, it seemed as though the global nuclear industry was in an irreversible decline.

From BBC

It became what is arguably the most expensive fruit in the world — though it will likely be tossed in a couple days.

From New York Times

Washington said that at the time he felt he “had to” drink and was bitter about the loss, though he holds no ill will toward the since-disgraced Spacey for taking home the Oscar.

From Los Angeles Times

One was his debut, “Boxcar Sessions,” an incredibly left-of-center release that was still definitely rooted in hip-hop, though it still sounded light-years ahead of its time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• although
• even if
• even though
• yet