although

American  

[awl-thoh] / ɔlˈðoʊ /

conjunction

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

---

although British  

/ ɔːlˈðəʊ /

conjunction

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

   although she was ill, she worked hard

---

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

Although they had been observed before, their function was unclear because they are so small and difficult to study with traditional tools.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2026

Although some investors may feel IonQ isn’t making progress as quickly as it should be, there were signs of improvement along the company’s bottom-line.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

Although Indonesia faces the same war-driven energy shock as other economies, its position as a producer of other commodities means it can benefit from higher prices of certain goods.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Although the practice is still in the theoretical research stage, scientists have spent two decades studying the chemical compounds associated with the breakdown of the human body.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Although Jaya and Jad were busy with school, they always made time for Roz.

From "The Wild Robot Escapes" by Peter Brown