What is despite? Pronunciation and usage in English

despite means . Learn how to pronounce and use despite through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of despite

despitepreposition

/dɪˈspʌɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of despite

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "despite" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "dis-": This part is pronounced like "dis" as in "disappointment." It's a short, quick "dis."
  • "pite": This is the harder part! It's a diphthong (a glide between two vowel sounds). It roughly sounds like "pit" but with a slightly more open "i" sound. It's not like the word "pit" as in a container.

2. Putting it Together:

The full pronunciation is: ˈdɪspɪt

  • ˈ (This symbol means primary stress—it’s on the first syllable, “dis-”).
  • dɪ – as in “did”
  • spɪ – as described above, the “pit” sound.
  • t – a simple, short "t" sound.

Here’s a breakdown of the sounds, using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) – which is the most precise way to represent pronunciation:

/dɪˈspɪt/

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "pit" like a word. Focus on the glide between the "i" and "t" sounds. It's a sound that doesn't exist in isolation.
  • Don’t overemphasize the “pite” part. It’s a subtle transition.
  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce despite" on Google and play the audio.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/despite/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce despite” on YouTube – you'll find numerous videos with clear pronunciations.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (Different accents can slightly change the pronunciation.)

Usage and examples with the word despite in English

Let's break down how to use the word "despite" in English. It's a really useful word for showing contrast and acknowledging something that might seem to go against expectations.

1. Basic Structure:

The most common and simplest way to use "despite" is with a prepositional phrase starting with "in spite of" or "regardless of." The structure is:

  • Despite + [noun/pronoun/gerund phrase] + [verb]
  • In spite of + [noun/pronoun/gerund phrase] + [verb]
  • Regardless of + [noun/pronoun/gerund phrase] + [verb]

2. Meaning and Function:

"Despite" basically means "even though" or "although." It signals that something exists in the face of something else. It acknowledges a difficulty, obstacle, or unfavorable situation but still highlights that something happened or is true.

3. Examples:

  • Despite the rain, we went for a walk. (The rain made it seem like the walk wouldn't happen, but we still went.)
  • In spite of his illness, he finished the marathon. (He was sick, which made it seem unlikely he'd complete the marathon, but he did.)
  • Regardless of the cost, she insisted on buying a new dress. (The dress was expensive, which could have stopped her, but she bought it anyway.)
  • Despite my best efforts, I failed the exam. (I tried very hard, but the outcome wasn't what I hoped for.)
  • Despite being tired, she continued working. (She was exhausted, but she didn't stop.)

4. Using "Despite" with Gerunds (Verb + -ing):

You can also use "despite" with a gerund phrase (a verb + -ing form acting as a noun). This is very common.

  • Despite the long drive, we had a great time. (The long drive was a potential obstacle to having a good time, but they did.)
  • Despite his initial hesitation, he agreed to help. (He was reluctant at first, but he eventually agreed.)

5. Comparing "Despite" to "Although" & "Though":

  • "Despite" is generally considered slightly more formal than "although" or "though".

  • "Although" and "Though" also mean "even though" and are often interchangeable with "despite." They can sometimes be used more freely.

    • Example: Although it was raining, we went for a walk. (This is perfectly fine and very common.)
    • Example: Despite it raining, we went for a walk. (Also correct, but slightly more formal.)

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Don't use "despite" before a verb. You need a noun, pronoun, or gerund phrase after "despite." Incorrect: Despite I went. Correct: Despite me, I went. (Or: Despite going, I…)
  • Don't use "despite" when you simply mean "and." "Despite" implies a contrast. If you just want to list things together, use "and."

Resources for Further Practice:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Focus on a specific usage (e.g., using it in a sentence)?
  • Practice a sentence-building exercise with "despite"?

Synonyms for the word despite

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