Confused about the difference (if there is any) between these two terms—despite or in spite of—that are often used interchangeably? Check out our quick tip on knowing when to use which, and wonder no more.
Short Answer
The phrase in spite of and the word despite are interchangeable and can equally be used correctly to mean “without being affected by.”
Long Answer
- Although in spite of and despite are interchangeable, several style guides prefer to use fewer words when fewer words will do, so they recommend always using despite.
- Additionally, watch out for placing the preposition of after despite (despite of)—it doesn’t belong there! This is always true, unless despite is also preceded by in: in despite of means “in defiance of.”
- And finally, remember that in spite is two words, while despite is one.
One thought on “English Grammar 101: Despite or In Spite Of?”
Leave a Reply
Our expert editors and proofreaders are available for you anytime (day or night!) with affordable and personalized professional services.
Grammar 101: Principle vs Principal
“Principal” and “principle” are two similar terms that are very easy to confuse, and even experienced writers sometimes mix the two words up. In this…
Stationery vs. Stationary: Oh, What a Difference a Letter Makes
Usually you’re stationary while you’re using stationery. If you’re writing a letter to a client at work, then you should know that one letter is…
English Grammar 101: Faze vs. Phase
What’s that you say? You’re not fazed with the difference between phase and faze? Well, you ought to be! Faze vs. phase...which is right? These words…
there is no correlation here with the ESL/EFL distinction. A stylish writer in one language will be stylish in another (always supposing a threshold of competence). And there are many dull EFL writers. http://ielts-learn.blogspot.com/2010/05/importance-of-ielts-test.html