It is acceptable to start a sentence with “even though” in formal and informal writing. When you use “even though” to begin a sentence, it makes the clause dependent. E.g., “Even though it was hot, he still wore a coat.”
When using the words “even though” at the beginning of a sentence, it means the same as “despite the fact” or” although.”
Because of the meaning of “even though,” whatever clause it appears in automatically becomes dependent.
- Even though he studied for his German exam, he failed miserably.
- Even though she is the manager, I do not trust her ability to do the job well.
You can combine “even” with the word “so.” In this role, the meaning changes, becoming “nevertheless” or something similar to “even if that is true.”
- He doesn’t speak French. Even so, he is going to live in France.
In addition, when you use the word “if” after” even,” the sentence is a conditional sentence.
- Even if he had asked me, I wouldn’t have gone.
- Even if it rains, I am still going for a run.
Are you still unsure of how to start sentences with “even though”? Then continue scrolling down the rest of the page to learn about how to use “even though” in formal and informal situations.
We’ve also gathered some synonyms to use instead of “even though” in formal writing.
Can You Start a Sentence With “Even Though” in Formal Writing?
Starting a sentence with “even though” in academic writing is perfectly acceptable. People do not regard it as incorrect or too informal as long as you punctuate it correctly.
Sometimes “even though” creates a dependent clause. As shown below:
- Even though the experiment was a success, there were limitations that we would try to avoid in the future.
- Even though the results confirmed the hypothesis, their severity was surprising.
You can change the word order so that “even though” appears in the middle of the sentence.
- The severity of the results was surprising even though they confirmed the hypothesis.
You can use “even though” in academic writing, and it is considered formal. However, you can also use a formal alternative such as:
- Albeit
- Despite the fact
- However
- Nevertheless
Can You Start a Sentence With “Even Though” in Informal Writing?
You can start a sentence or paragraph with “even though” in informal writing or messaging.
The term “even though” itself is neither formal nor informal. However, the words that appear after it determine the sentence’s formality.
- Even though I said I wasn’t going out, I need to get out of the house.
- Even though he asked me to go with him, I can’t really be bothered.
You will notice in the above examples that you need to put a comma at the end of the “even though” clause. However, when you change the word order so that “even though” is not at the start, you do not need a comma.
- I need to get out of the house even though I said I wasn’t going out.
- I can’t really be bothered to go with him even though he asked me.