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"Despite" is a preposition which is often translated as "a pesar de", and "even if" is a phrase which is often translated as "aunque". Learn more about the difference between "despite" and "even if" below.
despite(
dih
-
spayt
)A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
a. a pesar de
She was the one who paid the rent, despite having a much lower income.Era ella quien pagaba el alquiler, a pesar de tener unos ingresos mucho más bajos.
b. pese a
Obama signed sanctions against Venezuela despite threats from Maduro.Obama firmó sanciones contra Venezuela pese a las amenazas de Maduro.
even if(
i
-
vihn
ihf
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
1. (general)
a. aunque
Even if everyone else is against you, I'll stand by you.Aunque todos los demás estén en tu contra, yo te apoyaré.
b. incluso si
It's very dangerous to drive under these conditions, even if they clear the streets.Es muy peligroso manejar bajo estas condiciones, incluso si limpian las calles.