Even
Using even to express surprise, with comparatives, and in even though / even if structures
Even: Something Unusual or Surprising
Use even to show that something is unusual or surprising. It adds emphasis to the word or phrase that follows it.
- He always wears a coat, even in hot weather.
- The print was very small. I couldn’t read it, even with glasses.
- Nobody would help her, not even her best friend.
In each case, even signals that what comes next is unexpected. You would not normally need a coat in hot weather, or fail to read with glasses on.
Even with a Verb (Middle Position)
When even modifies the verb, place it in mid-position (before the main verb, after an auxiliary or be).
- She has travelled all over the world. She’s even been to the Antarctic.
- They are very rich. They even have their own private jet.
With negatives (not even, can’t even, don’t even), the meaning is stronger — the simplest thing is impossible or did not happen.
- I can’t cook. I can’t even boil an egg.
- They weren’t very friendly. They didn’t even say hello.
- She’s been running quite fast, and she’s not even out of breath.
Even + Comparative
Use even before a comparative adjective or adverb to make the comparison stronger.
- I got up very early, but Jack got up even earlier.
- I knew I didn’t have much money, but I have even less than I thought.
- We were surprised to get her email. We were even more surprised when she came to see us.
Even + comparative tells the listener that the second thing exceeds an already high (or low) level.
Even though / Even when / Even if
Use even though, even when, or even if + subject + verb to introduce a surprising or extreme condition.
- *Even though Tina can’t drive, she has a car.*
- He never shouts, even when he’s angry.
- It’s dangerous to swim here, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
Do not use even alone before subject + verb. You need even though, even when, or even if.
- *Even though she can’t drive, she has a car.* (not
Even she can’t drive, she has a car.) - I can’t reach the shelf, even if I stand on a chair. (not
even I stand on a chair)
Even if vs. If
Even if means “it doesn’t matter whether this happens or not.” If means the result depends on the condition.
- We’re going to the beach tomorrow. We’re going even if the weather is bad. (= we’re going regardless)
- We want to go to the beach tomorrow, but we won’t go if the weather is bad. (= the weather decides)
Quick Self-Check
He always brings his laptop to meetings, _____ when nobody else does.
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I thought the first version was bad, but the second one was _____ worse.
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_____ she studied all weekend, she didn't pass the exam.
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The hotel was awful. They _____ give us clean towels.
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I won't change my mind, _____ you offer me twice the salary.
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