1
Core relationship
Despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
Example
In spite of heavy rain, the excavation remained open.
in spite of
/ɪn spaɪt əv/ · in SPYTE uvconcession phrase
Despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
Use in spite of to express this relationship precisely: despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
What in spite of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The conclusion persisted in spite of limited evidence.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
In spite of using different methods, the laboratories obtained similar results.
Use in spite of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
In spite of heavy rain, the excavation remained open.
The conclusion persisted in spite of limited evidence.
In spite of using different methods, the laboratories obtained similar results.
Precision Matters
In spite of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in spite of
vs.Means despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
despite
Means without being prevented or changed by the factor named in the following noun phrase.
in spite of
vs.Means despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
even though
Means introduce a true circumstance that might have been expected to prevent the main result but did not.
in spite of
vs.Means despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
even so
Means introduce a statement that remains true despite the preceding fact or limitation.
in spite of
vs.Means despite a fact or condition that might have been expected to prevent the result.
contrary to
Means in opposition to, or different from, what is stated or expected.
Test in spite of in Context
The small sample could have prevented a useful finding, but it did not.
1
___ its small sample, the study identified a pattern later confirmed by larger surveys.