Using Although and But

Although and but are commonly known as connectors or conjunctions. Can both although and but be used in the same sentence? Read these 2 sentences and see if you can say which sentence is correct and which incorrect.

Although grandpa is already 70 years old, but his eyesight is still good.
Sheila is a rather smart girl, but sometimes she gets lazy and just leaves her homework undone.

Some English users may say both sentences are correct. Meaning-wise both sentences are correct. However, as although and but are very close in meaning, it is not necessary to include "but" once "although" has already been used to begin the sentence. Take note of the insertion of the comma. It is important that the comma should not be omitted. Sentence 1 is incorrect. The correct version of sentence 1 should be:

Although grandpa is already 70 years old, his eyesight is still good. OR
Grandpa is already 70 years old, but his eyesight is still good.

Note that if "although" is used, it is usually the first word of the sentence. If "although" has to replace "but", the sentence has to be reconstructed like this:
Note that in this case, the comma is no longer needed.

Grandpa's eyesight is till good although he is already 70 years old.
Sometimes Sheila gets lazy and just leaves her homework undone although she is a rather smart girl.

Avoid this common error of using both "although" and "but" in the same sentence.

Click on "common errors" for other common errors.

By Susan L
On 12/08/2009 11:02:00 PM
0 Comment(s)

View More Articles...
> Common Errors Articles
>
>
> English Upgrade Home

Add Your Comment! | Email this to Someone | Share

Using Although and But

English Upgrade for English Users

Connect With English Upgrade!

Info

Authors

Followers