Albeit
/ɔːlˈbiːɪt/
conjunctionC1
Definition
"Albeit" is a word that connects two ideas, showing that the second idea limits or changes the first one. It means "although" or "even though." People use it to say something is true, but with a small difference or problem.
Was this helpful?
See It in Action
To introduce a fact that limits or changes the previous statement
- •The trip was enjoyable, albeit tiring.
- •She accepted the job, albeit with some hesitation.
- •The painting is beautiful, albeit expensive.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "albeit" like "but," but used in a more formal and careful way to add information or show a small difference.
- ✓Picture two friends talking: one says, "I like the movie, albeit it was a little long." This means they liked it, but with a small problem.
- ✓It's the feeling when you say something nice but also mention a small problem or exception.
- ✓Sounds like "all-bee-it" → imagine a bee flying around, showing a small detail or exception to the main idea.
- ✓Think of it as a polite way to say "but" or "although" in writing or formal speech.
- ✓NOT like "and" (adds equal ideas), "albeit" shows a contrast or limitation.
- ✓NOT like "although" used at the start of a sentence; "albeit" usually comes inside the sentence.
- ✓NOT like "but" which is more common and informal; "albeit" is more formal and often in writing.
Try Other Words
- •Although: meaning "even though" (use when starting a sentence or in informal speech)
- •Though: meaning "however" or "but" (use in informal contexts)
- •Even though: meaning "despite the fact" (use to emphasize stronger contrast)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: No clear prefix or suffix; a single word
- •Etymology: From Middle English "al be it," meaning "all be it so," which later became one word
- •Historical development: Used since the 14th century in English for formal contrast
- •Modern usage: Mostly found in formal writing or speech to politely introduce a contrast or exception
Reflect & Connect
•How does using "albeit" change the tone of a sentence compared to using "but" or "although"?
•Can you think of situations where "albeit" sounds better than simpler words like "but"? Why?
Fill in the blanks
1.The weather was nice, albeit a bit ___ in the afternoon.
2.She completed the project, albeit with some ___.
3.He agreed to join the team, albeit ___ he was very busy.
4.The movie was interesting, albeit ___ slow in some parts.
5.The house is small, albeit ___ cozy and comfortable.
6.The plan worked, albeit ___ it took longer than expected.
7.They won the game, albeit ___ by a small margin.