Despite/in spite of

Dear Dr English

Please explain how to use "despite" and "in spite of" with some examples.

"Despite" is a preposition used when the speaker is mentioning a circumstance which surprisingly does not influence something or prevent it from happening or being true. "Despite" is followed by a noun, a noun phrase or a verb in the -ing form.

We went out despite the rain.

Despite the widespread campaign about the danger of drunken driving, many motorists still ignore the message.

He was very lively despite being sick.

"Despite" means the same as "in spite of", which is also followed by a noun or a noun group.

In spite of her sickness, Jane came to work.

In spite of the weather, we went camping in the mountains.

One thing to remember is not to use "in spite of" to say that something is possible and will not be affected by any circumstances. In a case like this we use "regardless of".

Every child is entitled to our free vaccination service regardless of its parents' income.

Note that to do something "despite yourself" or "in spite of yourself" means you would not normally do it.

Sarah is on a diet, but at the dinner reception she overate despite herself.

Harold burst out laughing in spite of himself when he was told of Frank's unfortunate accident.

By Dr English

drenglish_7@hotmail.com

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