What Does "in spite of the fact that" Mean?
- Grammatical function: This expression serves as a concessive conjunction. It introduces a subordinate clause that contains a fact or situation which makes the main clause seem surprising or unexpected. It establishes a logical relationship of contrast.
- Typical sentence position: It is highly versatile and can appear in the initial position (starting a sentence), medial position (between clauses), or final position.
- Register: It is generally considered formal or neutral. While common in journalism and academic writing, it is often replaced by shorter alternatives in casual speech.
How to Use It
- Syntactic patterns: The expression is always followed by a full clause (subject + verb). It acts as a bridge between a prepositional phrase ("in spite of") and a noun clause ("the fact that...").
- Punctuation rules: When the phrase starts a sentence, a comma must separate the subordinate clause from the main clause. When used medially, a comma is often used before it to provide a pause, especially if the contrast is sharp.
- Grammatical flexibility: It can be used to contrast positive and negative outcomes or to highlight irony. It cannot be easily negated itself, as the contrastive nature is inherent to the phrase.
- What sounds unnatural: Using this phrase followed only by a noun (e.g., "in spite of the fact that the rain") is incorrect; it requires a predicative statement.
Real-World Examples
These examples are sourced from in spite of the fact that on Ludwig.guru.
"In spite of the fact that they speak English much better than I speak Italian." — The New Yorker
"It is not so easy, in spite of the fact that some things are cheaper." — The Guardian
"We like fries not in spite of the fact that they're unhealthy but because of it." — The New Yorker
"Tolstoy, in spite of the fact that he was an aristocrat, a Russian count, was very democratic and open." — The New York Times
"In spite of the fact that the Bagger predicted as much, he was as stunned as anyone else." — The New York Times
Similar Phrases and Alternatives
| Phrase |
Context |
| although |
The most common neutral alternative; more concise and used in both speech and writing. |
| even though |
Provides a stronger emphasis on the contrast than "although". |
| despite the fact that |
Identical in meaning and register; "despite" is slightly more modern than "in spite of". |
| notwithstanding the fact that |
Extremely formal; typically found in legal or highly technical academic texts. |
| albeit |
Used to introduce a concessive adjective or adverbial phrase, rather than a full clause. |
| despite |
Used when followed by a noun or gerund rather than a full clause. |
Common Mistakes
- Omission of components: Learners often omit the word 'of' or 'the fact' (e.g., saying 'in spite the fact that' or 'in spite that'). This phrase must be used in its entirety to function as a conjunction for a clause.
- Confusion with 'despite': A frequent error is saying 'despite of'. While in spite of requires the preposition 'of', despite must never be followed by it.
- Punctuation errors: Forgetting the comma when the expression begins a sentence can lead to run-on thoughts that are difficult to parse.
Quick-Reference Summary
| Expression |
Function |
Register |
Typical Position |
| in spite of the fact that |
Concession / Contrast |
Formal / Neutral |
Initial, Medial, or Final |
FAQs
Can "in spite of the fact that" be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, in spite of the fact that can function as a sentence-initial connector to set the stage for a surprising conclusion in the main clause. When used this way, ensure you place a comma after the dependent clause to maintain proper syntax.
What is the difference between "in spite of the fact that" and "although"?
While both act as concessive conjunctions, "although" is more concise and suitable for all levels of formality. In contrast, in spite of the fact that is more wordy and is typically reserved for formal writing or when the writer wants to emphasize the reality of the "fact" being presented.
Why is it incorrect to say "despite of the fact that"?
Learners often confuse these expressions because they share the same meaning, but despite is a preposition that never takes "of". You must use either the full phrase in spite of the fact that or simply despite the fact that to avoid a grammatical error.