Starting a sentence with "Even Though" has been a controversial topic among English language scholars and grammar enthusiasts. Some argue that it breaks traditional grammatical rules while others believe it adds a nuanced tone to the sentence. In this article, we will take a closer look at this debate and provide some definitive answers.
The Role of "Even Though" in a Sentence
"Even though" is a subordinating conjunction that is used to create complex sentences. It helps to express a contrast between two ideas or situations. "Even though" typically introduces a dependent clause that presents information contradicting or modifying the independent clause that follows.
Common uses of "Even Though" include expressing an unexpected result or condition, showing contrast, and illustrating an exception. For example, in the sentence – "Even though it was raining, we decided to go for a walk," the phrase "Even though it was raining," is the dependent clause that sets up a contrast with the independent clause "we decided to go for a walk."
Instances Where Starting With "Even Though" Works Well
There are several instances where starting a sentence with "Even Though" can be effective. It can add a dramatic effect or emphasize a point you're trying to make. This can be particularly useful in persuasive or argumentative writing.
Here are some examples:
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Even though it was late, she decided to finish her project. | This sentence emphasizes the determination of the subject despite the late hour. |
| Even though I was tired, I couldn't sleep. | Here, the phrase "Even though" highlights the contrast between feeling tired and not being able to sleep. |
| Even though they lost the game, they were happy with their performance. | This example underscores the fact that happiness can be found in performance, not just winning. |
| Even though he was wealthy, he lived a simple life. | This sentence uses "Even though" to emphasize the contrast between wealth and simplicity. |
| Even though it was a difficult decision, it was the right one. | Here, the phrase "Even though" underscores the difficulty of the decision, but highlights that it was necessary. |
Instances Where Caution is Needed
While "Even Though" can be a powerful tool in a writer's arsenal, caution is needed when starting sentences with it. It can sometimes lead to convoluted sentences if not used correctly. Additionally, overuse of this phrase can make your writing repetitive and monotonous.
Here are some instances where extra caution is needed:
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Even though the cake was, she still ate a piece, in the end, very sweet. | This sentence is confusing and awkward due to the placement of "in the end". |
| Even though he, despite the cold weather, decided to go for a run. | The phrase "despite the cold weather" interrupts the flow of the sentence. |
| Even though we were late because we missed the bus but we still managed to catch the show. | The conjunction "but" makes the sentence confusing. |
| Even though she was tired she stayed up late to study for her test. | This sentence needs a comma after "tired" for clarity. |
| Even though it was raining he forgot his umbrella at home. | A comma after "raining" would help improve readability. |
Tips for Using "Even Though" at the Beginning of a Sentence
Using "Even Though" at the beginning of a sentence can be effective when done carefully. It is important to avoid overly complex or confusing sentence structures. Make sure the dependent clause introduced by "Even Though" clearly relates to the independent clause that follows.
- Do use "Even Though" to add contrast or surprise to your sentence.
- Don't overuse "Even Though." Too much repetition can make your writing monotonous.
- Do follow "Even Though" with a comma if it starts a sentence.
- Don't use "Even Though" to join two independent clauses. That's what coordinating conjunctions are for!
Common Misconceptions and Myths
One common misconception is that starting a sentence with "Even Though" is always incorrect. Some people believe it's a form of sentence fragment, but this isn't accurate. "Even Though" can begin a sentence as long as it's followed by a complete thought or independent clause.
- Misconception: "Even Though" should never start a sentence.
- Reality: "Even Though" can start a sentence when used to introduce a dependent clause that contrasts with the following independent clause.
- Misconception: Using "Even Though" to start a sentence makes it a fragment.
- Reality: A sentence beginning with "Even Though" is not a fragment if it includes an independent clause.
Conclusion
Starting a sentence with "Even Though" is grammatically correct and can add depth and nuance to your writing. It's a useful tool for expressing contrast or unexpected conditions, but like any tool, it should be used appropriately and sparingly. Remember to pair it with a dependent clause that contrasts with the following independent clause, and to avoid unnecessary complexity in your sentence structure.
