though
conjunction
UK/ðəʊ/US/ðoʊ/
In spite of the fact that; although.
Example Sentences
She went to the party though she wasn't feeling well.
He continued working though he was exhausted.
They decided to proceed though the weather was bad.
Though it was raining, they went for a walk.
She loves to travel, though she doesn't have much money.
He didn't win the race though he trained hard.
Though he apologized, she was still upset.
Though the task was difficult, they managed to complete it on time.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
adverb
UK/ðəʊ/US/ðoʊ/
Nevertheless; in spite of that.
Example Sentences
He was tired; though, he kept working.
It was late, though we decided to stay up.
She didn't study; though, she passed the exam.
They were hungry, though they didn't eat anything.
He tried his best, though he didn't succeed.
It was difficult, though they enjoyed the challenge.
She didn't like the movie, though it received good reviews.
Though it was expensive, they bought the car.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Used to introduce a contrast or mild concession in speech or writing.This term can function as a conjunction or an adverb, generally indicating a contrast or unexpected shift relative to a preceding statement. As a conjunction, it often introduces a subordinate clause that contrasts with the main clause: “He studied hard, though he found the test challenging.” In this example, the idea of hard work is slightly offset by the challenge of the test. You can also place it at the end of a sentence to add a quick qualifying remark: “The project is moving forward. It’s costly, though.”When used in conversation, “though” can soften disagreement or disappointment: “I appreciate your effort, though I think we should reconsider the timeline.” It hints at a concession—acknowledging one point while bringing up a conflicting perspective. People sometimes drop it casually to modify tone or offer a counterpoint: “It’s raining outside. It’s pretty warm, though.” In such informal contexts, it can appear in quick afterthoughts, emphasizing a nuanced or contrary idea. If you place it at a sentence’s end, it feels lighter: “I’m not sure I’ll go out tonight… I’d like to, though.” Always ensure clarity by tying it to the relevant statement, particularly if you’re discussing multiple angles or aspects in a short span.
Alternatives
For indicating a contrast or presenting an opposing idea, several synonyms or structures exist. “Although” or “even though” are close in meaning but often appear at the start of clauses, typically in more formal contexts: “Although he studied hard, he found the test challenging.” “However” works as a transitional adverb, usually in a new sentence, emphasizing a contrast: “He studied hard. However, he found the test challenging.” If you prefer something shorter in spoken language, “but” is a direct coordinating conjunction: “He studied hard, but the test was still tough.”When you want a casual or quick pivot, “still” can work: “He studied hard, still he found the test challenging,” though this is less common in formal writing. “Nevertheless” and “nonetheless” also underscore contrast or concession but lean more academic: “He studied hard; nevertheless, the test proved difficult.” Each choice subtly shifts tone or formality, so match your selection to the context and desired effect, whether you’re tying two statements closely together or offering a separate but connected thought.
Writing
In written text, “though” helps create smooth, concise contrasts without being too abrupt. Placing it within or at the end of a sentence softens the transition: “The plan seems solid, though minor adjustments may be needed.” This usage typically suits a semi-formal or conversational tone. In highly formal documents, you might lean on “although” or “however,” especially if you’re structuring more rigid argumentation: “Although the data points are consistent, further study is recommended.”When inserting “though” in longer pieces—like academic papers, official reports, or literary works—remain mindful of punctuation and clarity. Often, you’ll see it after a comma when it’s mid-sentence: “He wanted to accept the offer, though he had some reservations.” If you place it at the end of a sentence, ensure readers know which idea it’s qualifying: “The results are promising. They’ll need more testing, though.” If you find yourself using it repeatedly, consider mixing in synonyms like “however,” “still,” or “even so” to maintain variety and avoid repetitiveness. The goal is to ensure each use gracefully handles a tension or exception without confusing the flow of your argument or narrative.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “though” slips in easily to add quick afterthoughts or friendly contrasts. You might say, “She’s usually punctual. She was late today, though,” to highlight an unexpected detail. This approach delivers a two-part statement: first, establishing a norm (being punctual), then offering a twist (being late). Friends often tack it on at the end of a sentence to dial down direct opposition—“I don’t really feel like pizza… I could go for it, though.” In such cases, it softens the stance or leaves room for change.It’s also common to layer it into shorter exclamations—“We had a great time. It was really hot, though!”—reinforcing that everything was fun but pointing out one downside. In text messages, social media posts, or chats, “though” often shows up in casual disclaimers or half-contradictions: “I’m exhausted. Might stay up another hour, though!” This usage contributes an almost playful note of indecision or open-mindedness. As with any informal style, overusing it can dilute its effect. When you pepper your speech too frequently with “though,” it may feel redundant. Balance its usage so your conversation remains natural yet clear, ensuring listeners understand each subtle contrast or concession you raise.
Etymology
From Old English “þēah,” this word originally denoted ‘nonetheless’ or ‘although,’ reflecting a sense of concession or contrast. Over centuries, spelling and pronunciation shifted as Middle English absorbed influences from Norse, Norman French, and other tongues. By the Early Modern English period, “though” solidified its role in introducing subordinate clauses that carry a contrasting or unexpected element. Writers like Shakespeare and his contemporaries commonly employed it, sometimes with a more archaic flavor: “Though she be but little, she is fierce.”The term survived into modern usage due to English’s persistent need for concise ways to link or juxtapose ideas. Its elasticity—functioning both as a stand-alone conjunction and as a sentence-level adverb—kept it relevant in a variety of contexts, from intimate letters to public speeches. Even with the rise of synonyms like “however” and “although,” “though” remains popular for its informal warmth and brevity, serving as a reliable pivot that injects subtle tension or qualification into everyday language.
