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Despite, in spite of, whereas, so that, in order to
B2 B2 grammar · lesson 13 of 21
Linking words help you join ideas clearly in essays, emails and speech. This lesson shows you how to express contrast and purpose with the correct grammar after each linker.
Contrast: despite and in spite of
You know although and however from B1. Despite and in spite of have the same meaning as although, but the grammar is different. After them we use a noun, a pronoun or an -ing form, not a full clause.
| Linker | + | Example |
|---|---|---|
| although | subject + verb | Although it was raining, we went out. |
| despite / in spite of | noun | Despite the rain, we went out. |
| despite / in spite of | -ing | In spite of feeling ill, she went to work. |
| despite / in spite of | the fact that + clause | Despite the fact that it was raining, we went out. |
Contrast: whereas and while
Whereas and while compare two different facts. They are followed by a clause.
Tom loves cities, whereas his wife prefers the countryside.
While some people enjoy the heat, others find it hard to sleep.
Despite his age, my grandad runs every morning.
In spite of studying hard, Lucy didn’t pass the test.
Purpose: to, in order to, so as to, so that
For purpose (why we do something), use to / in order to / so as to + infinitive. In order to and so as to are more formal. For a negative purpose, use in order not to / so as not to.
Use so that + subject + verb, often with can, could, will, would. We need so that when the subject changes.
Anna saved money in order to buy a car.
We left early so as not to miss the train.
I’ll write the address down so that you don’t forget it.
Omar spoke slowly so that everyone could understand.
Common mistakes
✗ Despite it was cold, we swam.
✓ Although it was cold, we swam. / Despite the cold, we swam.
✗ In spite of to be tired, he finished the work.
✓ In spite of being tired, he finished the work.
✗ I went to the shop for buy milk.
✓ I went to the shop to buy milk.
✗ She spoke loudly in order that everyone to hear.
✓ She spoke loudly so that everyone could hear.
Remember: it is in spite of (three words), but despite (one word, no of).