Choose the most appropriate word to fill in the blank:
He didn't take the umbrella __________ it was raining heavily.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → even though
Complete sentence: He didn't take the umbrella even though it was raining heavily. Heavy rain is a reason to take an umbrella, yet he did not take one. The two facts contrast, so the blank needs even though.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) since | Since gives a reason. It would make the heavy rain the reason for not taking the umbrella, which is illogical. | Since it was late, we took a taxi. |
| (2) even though (answer) | Even though (like although and though) joins two clauses whose ideas contrast: one fact is true in spite of the other. | Even though she was tired, she finished her homework. |
| (3) in order to | In order to shows purpose and is followed by a base verb (in order to catch), not by a clause such as "it was raining". | He left early in order to catch the train. |
| (4) as soon as | time (immediately after something). It gives no contrast between the rain and his not taking the umbrella. | We went out as soon as the rain stopped. |