How to spell although
A Year 3 and 4 statutory spelling word, with the tricky part explained and a tip that makes it stick.
The answer
although
A-L-T-H-O-U-G-H
The part to watch: al + though, with one l. The underlined letters are the ones most people get wrong.
The tricky part
Although is al + though. It has only one l, like already and always.
Although is one of the words on the Year 3 and 4 list with the letters ough or augh. The letters ough make at least five different sounds, and augh often says "or". Learn these words by sight, as a family.
Common mistakes with although
- Wrong: allthoughRight: although
- Wrong: althoRight: although
A way to remember it
Always, already and although all start with one l.
Although in syllables
al · though
Although has 2 syllables. Say each one as you write it.
In a sentence
We went outside, although it was cold.
Although on the statutory list
Although is on the Year 3 and 4 statutory word list in the national curriculum for England, printed there as though/although. Children are taught these words in Years 3 and 4, when they are 7 to 9.
From the same entry
Test yourself
A short spelling test that starts with although, then nine more words from the Year 3 and 4 list, read aloud. It works in your browser.
More words with the letters ough or augh
These words from the Year 3 and 4 list share the same pattern as although.
More words
Questions parents ask
Can although be written altho?
Altho is an informal short form. In school writing, always use although, with one l and the full ough.
Spelling is one part of the picture
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