The Difference Between “In spite” and “Despite”
Are you often confused between the usage of “inspite” and “despite”? These two words are commonly used in the English language, and they may appear similar at first. However, they have distinct meanings and usage. In this article, we will explore what “inspite” and “despite” mean, provide examples of their usage, and highlight the main differences between them.
What is “inspite”?
“Inspite” is a preposition that expresses contrast or opposition. It is used to indicate that something happens or exists despite a particular condition or circumstance. It is similar in meaning to “despite”, but it is less commonly used.
Examples of “inspite”
- I went for a run inspite of the heavy rain.
- She succeeded inspite of facing numerous obstacles.
- He ate the cake inspite of being on a diet.
What is “despite”?
“Despite” is a preposition that also expresses contrast or opposition. It is used to show that something happens or exists regardless of a particular condition or circumstance. Unlike “inspite”, “despite” is more commonly used in everyday language.
Examples of “despite”
- I went for a run despite the heavy rain.
- She succeeded despite facing numerous obstacles.
- He ate the cake despite being on a diet.
Differences Between “inspite” and “despite”
| Difference Area | “inspite” | “despite” |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Less commonly used | More commonly used |
| Verb Placement | Usually used before the verb | Usually used before the noun |
| Synonym | “Regardless of” | “In spite of” |
| Formality | Considered more formal | Considered less formal |
| Length of word | Two words | One word |
| Position in a sentence | Can be used in the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence | Usually used at the beginning or middle of a sentence |
| Negative connotation | Can sometimes imply a negative aspect or feeling | Does not imply a negative aspect or feeling |
| Emphasis | May emphasize the contrast or opposition more strongly | May emphasize the contrast or opposition slightly less |
| Subject-verb agreement | The subject and verb can be singular or plural | The subject and verb are usually singular |
| Word frequency | Less frequently used | More frequently used |
Conclusion
Although “inspite” and “despite” share a common meaning of expressing contrast or opposition, there are several key differences between them. “Inspite” is less commonly used, tends to be more formal, and can sometimes imply a negative aspect. On the other hand, “despite” is more commonly used, allows for subject-verb agreement, and does not imply a negative connotation. Understanding these differences will help you use these words appropriately in your writing and speech.
Knowledge Check: Quiz
- Can “inspite” and “despite” be used interchangeably?
- Which word is more commonly used?
- Which word is considered more formal?
- What is the position of “inspite” in a sentence?
- What is the length of the word “despite”?
- Does “inspite” imply a negative aspect?
- Can “despite” be used before a verb?
- What is the word frequency of “inspite”?
- Which word may emphasize the contrast more strongly?
- Are “inspite” and “despite” two separate words?
No, they have different usage and connotations.
“Despite” is more commonly used.
“Inspite” is considered more formal.
“Inspite” can be used in the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.
“Despite” is a single word.
Yes, it can sometimes imply a negative aspect or feeling.
No, “despite” is usually used before a noun.
“Inspite” is less frequently used.
“Inspite” may emphasize the contrast more strongly.
Yes, they are two separate words with distinct meanings.
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