Word Choice: Though or Although?
  • 3-minute read
  • 7th June 2022

Word Choice: Though or Although?

English is a complex language, even for native speakers. Even for the best writers, there are many pain points and complicated nuances in this language.

Something we often hear about is people not knowing whether to use though or although in a sentence. In many cases, these words are interchangeable, but sometimes they’re not.

If you’re struggling with though vs. although, you’re certainly not alone! It’s common for people to get stuck on this word choice. Don’t panic. This guide should tell you everything you need to know.

Though

Though is a conjunction and an adverb.

When used as an adverb, though limits what was said or written before it, just like nevertheless, regardless, and however do. Here is an example:


Her artwork isn’t great. Nonetheless, it has sold for thousands of dollars.


It can also be used to qualify what was said or written before. Here is an example:


My wig is uncomfortable to wear. It looks good, though.


When though is used as a conjunction, it can be used interchangeably with although.

Although

Although is a conjunction only and can be replaced with though on any occasion.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

It’s more formal than though. If you’re trying to write formally in an occasion where although and though are interchangeable, opt for although and vice versa.

Here are two examples:


Although I had a big breakfast, I’m still hungry.


Though I had a big breakfast, I’m still hungry.

The bottom line

Though can be used as both an adverb and a conjunction, whereas although can only be used as a conjunction.

If in doubt, stick with though. You can’t go wrong when using though because it can be used as both a conjunction and an adverb. In any situation where you’d say or write although, though can be used instead.

If you’re now completely comfortable with using though and although properly, remember that although is more formal than though. When you’re trying to write in a casual tone, use though. When you’re trying to write in a formal tone, use although (but only when it’s a conjunction).

No matter how clued up we are with grammar, spelling, and tone, mistakes can creep into writing. Having an extra pair of eyes to review your work can help you reach your full potential.

We have a professional proofreading and editing service for students, professionals, authors, and more. Our team will look over your work to see if there are any issues with tone, word choice, formatting, spelling, or grammar.

Interested in using us? Get 500 words of your work proofread and edited free of charge.

Comments (0)


Got content that needs a quick turnaround?

Let us polish your work.

Explore our editorial business services.

More Writing Tips?
Trusted by thousands of leading
institutions and businesses

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.