in spite of the fact that

USAGE SUMMARY

'in spite of the fact that' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase used to express a contrast between two ideas. For example: "In spite of the fact that the task was complicated, I was able to complete it successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In spite of the fact that they speak English much better than I speak Italian.

The New Yorker

This in spite of the fact that Pound Ridge is the greenest community in Westchester.

The New York Times

It is not so easy, in spite of the fact that some things are cheaper.

The Guardian

This happens in spite of the fact that Emma is dead.

The New York Times - Books

This is in spite of the fact that the Cornell academics helped design the project.

The Guardian

We like fries not in spite of the fact that they're unhealthy but because of it.

The New Yorker

His directorial manner is swashbuckling, in spite of the fact that he's brand-new to moviemaking.

The New Yorker

This, in spite of the fact that the first two albums were done there – successfully.

The Guardian - Music

(This in spite of the fact that it was eventually defeated, in both tournaments, by Germany).

The New Yorker

And that in spite of the fact that the narrative itself isn't even difficult.

The New York Times - Books

"She's become unemployable in spite of the fact that she has no criminal arrest record".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in spite of the fact that", ensure the contrasting idea that follows genuinely presents a surprise or deviation from what might be expected, enhancing the impact of your statement.

Common error

While useful, "in spite of the fact that" can become repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using simpler conjunctions like 'although' or 'even though' for a more concise and fluid writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in spite of the fact that" functions as a subordinating conjunction. It introduces a subordinate clause that expresses a contrast or concession, setting up an unexpected or surprising element in relation to the main clause. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in spite of the fact that" is a versatile conjunction phrase used to introduce a contrasting element or unexpected situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While useful for adding emphasis, varying sentence structure with alternatives like "although" or "despite the fact that" can enhance writing fluidity. Recognizing the subtle differences between these alternatives and avoiding overuse will ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite the fact that

This alternative is more concise due to using 'despite' instead of 'in spite of'.

regardless of the fact that

This alternative emphasizes the lack of impact from the stated fact.

even though

This alternative is shorter and more direct, suitable for less formal contexts.

irrespective of the fact that

This alternative is a more formal synonym for 'regardless of'.

although

This alternative is a simpler conjunction, less emphatic than the original phrase.

notwithstanding the fact that

This alternative is more formal and literary.

while

This alternative introduces a contrasting element more subtly.

even if

This alternative presents a hypothetical situation that doesn't affect the outcome.

with the understanding that

This alternative implies a pre-existing agreement or condition.

admitting that

This alternative focuses on acknowledging a truth before presenting a contrasting point.

FAQs

How can I use "in spite of the fact that" in a sentence?

You can use "in spite of the fact that" to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems unexpected given the information that precedes it. For example, "In spite of the fact that it was raining, we decided to go for a walk".

What are some alternatives to "in spite of the fact that"?

Alternatives include "despite the fact that", "although", and "even though". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "in spite of" or "despite"?

"In spite of" and "despite" are often interchangeable. However, "in spite of" is typically followed by 'the fact that' when introducing a clause, while "despite" can stand alone or be followed by a noun or gerund. For example: "Despite the rain" versus "in spite of the fact that it was raining".

What is the difference between "in spite of the fact that" and "because of the fact that"?

"In spite of the fact that" indicates a contrast or something unexpected, whereas "because of the fact that" indicates a cause or reason. They have opposite meanings and should not be confused. One implies something happened despite an obstacle; the other, due to a reason.