Though Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿค”
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though

[รฐoสŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Conjunction

connecting words

used to introduce a fact or a comment that contrasts with or seems to contradict what has been said previously.

Synonyms

however, nevertheless, nonetheless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
though

Repeated for emphasis, 'though' can appear at the end of a sentence to express a soft contradiction or contrast.

  • It was a tough challenge. They did their best, though.
  • I enjoyed the movie. It was a bit too long, though.
however

Used to introduce a contrast or contradiction, more formal than 'though' and often used at the beginning of a sentence followed by a comma.

  • I wanted to go for a walk; however, it started to rain.
  • She is interested in science; however, she chose to study literature.
nevertheless

Formal word used to indicate that something happened despite an obstacle or surprising condition. Often used at the beginning or middle of a sentence, preceded by a semi-colon or a comma.

  • The team was tired; nevertheless, they won the match.
  • He was very sick. Nevertheless, he went to work.
nonetheless

Similar to 'nevertheless,' slightly less formal but still used to indicate something happened despite a condition. Often used interchangeably with 'nevertheless'.

  • The project faced many challenges; nonetheless, it was completed on time.
  • It's expensive. Nonetheless, I think we should buy it.

Examples of usage

  • He was very tired, though. He kept working.
  • I wanted to go; though I knew it was impossible.
Context #2 | Adverb

indicating a slight possibility

used for introducing a statement that makes the main statement you have just made seem less likely or less certain.

Synonyms

although, even though, while.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
though

Used to introduce a contrast or contradiction, often in informal speech or writing.

  • She said it would rain, though I wasn't sure if she was right.
  • It was late, though they continued working.
although

Typically used in more formal writing or speech to introduce a contrast. Often followed by a clause.

  • Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
  • The team played well, although they didn't win the match.
even though

Emphasizes a contrast more strongly than 'though' or 'although'. Often used to highlight surprising or unexpected contrasts.

  • Even though she was tired, she finished the project.
  • He went to the party even though he wasn't feeling well.
while

Used to show a contrast between two events or actions happening at the same time or within the same period.

  • While I enjoy coffee, my friend prefers tea.
  • The sun was shining while it was raining.

Examples of usage

  • It's hard to see how they could have survived, though.
  • I don't think it's likely to happen, though.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammar

  • 'Though' can function as a conjunction, adverb, or preposition, making it quite versatile in sentences.
  • In casual speech, it's often used at the end of a sentence for emphasis, such as 'I liked the movie, though.'
  • It's commonly paired with other phrases like 'even though', which helps emphasize the contrasting idea.

Cultural Usage

  • In literature, 'though' often helps to deepen character development by showing inner conflicts or contrasting desires.
  • The word is frequently used in poetry to introduce complexity in emotions, creating layers in meanings.
  • In modern digital communication, its informal usage connects thoughts while conveying a laid-back tone.

Psychology

  • Using 'though' can indicate a cognitive shift, reflecting a person's ability to see multiple perspectives in a situation.
  • In conversations, including 'though' often fosters understanding and empathy by acknowledging differing viewpoints.
  • This word illustrates critical thinking, which helps in resolving conflicts by highlighting contrasts in opinions.

Literature

  • 'Though' appears frequently in narrative texts to juxtapose characters' wants against their reality, enriching the plot.
  • In Shakespeare's works, the word helps convey tension between charactersโ€™ spoken words and their true feelings.
  • Modern authors often use 'though' to mirror the complexities of human relationships in their storytelling.

Origin of 'though'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'though' comes from Old English 'รพฤ', meaning 'then' or 'at that time'.
  • Over centuries, it evolved alongside related terms in German and Dutch languages to convey contrast.
  • Its usage in English has changed, but it has always been linked to expressing conditions or exceptions.

The word 'though' originated from the Middle English 'thogh', which came from Old English 'รพฤ“ah'. It has been used in the English language for centuries as a conjunction and adverb to express contrast or possibility. The usage of 'though' has evolved over time, adapting to different contexts and styles of communication.


Word Frequency Rank

With position #202, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.