The phrase “in spite of” is a crucial grammatical structure that frequently appears in IELTS exams. It’s used to express contrast or concession, indicating that something happens despite an opposing factor. Understanding and using this structure correctly can significantly enhance your IELTS score across all sections of the test.
Understanding “In spite of + noun/gerund”
“In spite of” is a prepositional phrase that can be followed by either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing). It’s used to show that something happens despite a particular fact or circumstance.
Formula:
In spite of + noun/gerund, + main clause
Examples:
- In spite of the heavy rain, the football match continued.
- The team completed the project in spite of facing numerous challenges.
- In spite of his illness, he attended the important meeting.
Usage in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing, using “in spite of” can help you express complex ideas and show contrast effectively. It’s particularly useful in Task 2 essays where you need to discuss different viewpoints or present arguments.
Example for Task 2:
In spite of the numerous benefits of technology in education, some argue that it can be a distraction in the classroom. This sentence effectively introduces a counterargument, demonstrating your ability to consider multiple perspectives.
Usage in IELTS Speaking
For the Speaking test, incorporating “in spite of” into your responses can showcase your grammatical range and accuracy.
Example:
Examiner: “Tell me about a challenge you’ve faced.”
Candidate: “In spite of facing financial difficulties during my studies, I managed to complete my degree with honors. This experience taught me the value of perseverance.”
Advanced Applications and Variations
1. “In spite of the fact that”
This variation allows you to introduce a full clause after “in spite of.”
Example: In spite of the fact that he had studied for weeks, he still felt nervous before the exam.
2. Noun phrases after “in spite of”
You can use complex noun phrases to add more detail to your sentence.
Example: The company thrived in spite of the economic downturn and fierce competition in the market.
3. Using gerunds for actions
When referring to actions, use the gerund form after “in spite of.”
Example: In spite of working overtime every day, she still found time to pursue her hobbies.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Using “of” after “despite”:
Incorrect: Despite of the rain, we went out.
Correct: In spite of the rain, we went out. -
Using “to” after “in spite of”:
Incorrect: In spite of to study hard, he failed the exam.
Correct: In spite of studying hard, he failed the exam. -
Using a clause directly after “in spite of”:
Incorrect: In spite of he was tired, he continued working.
Correct: In spite of being tired, he continued working.
Comparison with Similar Structures
“In spite of” vs “Despite”
These two phrases are interchangeable and have the same meaning. However, “despite” is often considered more formal.
Example:
- In spite of the cold weather, they enjoyed their vacation.
- Despite the cold weather, they enjoyed their vacation.
“In spite of” vs “Although”
While “in spite of” is followed by a noun or gerund, “although” introduces a clause.
Example:
- In spite of the rain, we had a great time. (noun)
- Although it was raining, we had a great time. (clause)
Enhancing Your IELTS Score
To achieve a higher band score in IELTS, it’s crucial to use “in spite of” accurately and in varied contexts. Here’s how you can incorporate it effectively:
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Writing Task 2: Use it to introduce contrasting ideas or concessions in your arguments.
Example: In spite of the potential risks, many believe that genetic engineering offers significant benefits to society. -
Speaking Part 3: Employ it when discussing complex topics or giving opinions on challenging subjects.
Example: “In spite of the increasing globalization, I believe it’s crucial to preserve local cultures and traditions.” -
Reading: Recognize its use in complex sentences to understand the author’s point more accurately.
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Listening: Be aware that this structure might be used to introduce contrasting information in lectures or conversations.
Practice Exercises
To master the use of “in spite of,” try incorporating it into your responses for these IELTS-style questions:
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city.
- Some people believe that traditional cultures are being lost. Do you agree or disagree?
- How has technology impacted education in recent years?
Remember to use “in spite of” to introduce contrasting ideas or concessions in your responses.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “in spite of + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS exam. It allows you to express complex ideas, show contrast, and demonstrate a high level of grammatical proficiency. Practice using this structure in various contexts to improve your fluency and accuracy across all sections of the IELTS test.
For further practice on advanced grammatical structures, you might find it helpful to explore related topics such as how to use “be concentrated on + noun/gerund” or the proper usage of “be liable for + noun/gerund”. These structures, along with “in spite of,” will help you build a robust grammatical foundation for IELTS success.