Word of the Day: Though
The word “though” is a word used to limit or contrast information. When it’s used as a conjunction, “though” is similar to “but” or “however.”
- Though it’s kind of expensive, we decided to buy an electric car.
or
- We decided to buy an electric car though it’s kind of expensive. (See note below.)
In either sentence, the word “though” helps to show a contrast, or it reduces the benefits for a situation. Here are some more examples:
- The school is going to offer more classes next year though some of the classes will only be available online.
- We had a great time in Paris, though we were only able to be there for a few days. (Notice this is punctuated with a comma before “though.” See note below.)
- Though many people have a belief in God, attendance at religious services is declining.
- The movie was very entertaining though it contained too much violence.
- The Nelsons are happy with their new home though it now takes over an hour for Mr. Nelson to drive to work.
- Though the weather outside is frightful, the fire inside is delightful. (This is paraphrased from the song Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow. The actual lyrics are somewhat different.)
We can also use “though” as a type of adverb. In this case, it will appear at the end of a clause.
- Downhill skiing can be a dangerous sport. It’s fun, though.
- I believe your request for financial support is genuine. I can’t help you though.
- Mr. Dawson is a good teacher. He’s strict though.
- A: This chocolate cake is highly caloric.
- B: Yeah, it’s good though! (It’s fairly common to hear “though” used when countering a statement made by another person.)
When the word “as” is put before “though,” it’s similar to “as if.” In this case, the person’s point of view is provided, whether the point of view is correct or not. i
- He acts as though he doesn’t have any money, but he does. (He acts as if he doesn’t have any money, but he does.)
- It looks as though it’s going to rain.
- It smells as though something is burning.
- The car handles as though it were a sports car. (Notice the use of the subjunctive in the second clause.)
- It’s as though she doesn’t care about anyone but herself.
- As though I didn’t have enough work to do already. (This is somewhat of an expression used when someone feels there are too many obligations to meet at work or in one’s personal life.)
Note: Because “though” functions as a subordinating conjunction, place a comma at the end of the clause when “though” begins a sentence. When it appears in the middle of a sentence, it’s not necessary to use a comma. However, because “though” is similar to the coordinating conjunction “but,” some people put a comma before “though” when it appears in the middle of a sentence. I don’t think this is a mistake because it’s so commonly done.)
Essential English Dictionary
Visit the Popular English Words Beginning with T page to see the list of all words starting with letter T. For seeing the HiCafe dictionary, visit the Popular English Words with Meaning page.
