Advanced Grammar Guide
Linkers of Contrast
When we want to introduce contrast in English, we use the following words: In
spite of, Despite, Although, Even though, However, Nevertheless, and Whereas.
It is important to know when and how to use these linkers:
1. ´In spite of’ and ‘Despite’ are followed by a noun phrase or a verb in the
‘ing’ form.
Ex: Despite their money, they can’t buy happiness.
Ex: In spite of having so much money, they aren’t very happy.
2. ‘Although’ and ‘Even though’ are followed by a complete sentence.
Ex: Although she sang beautifully, she didn’t win the contest.
Ex: I am going out tonight, even though I am really tired.
3. ‘However’ and ‘Nevertheless’ introduce a new idea which marks a contrast
with a previously stated idea. The speaker usually makes a strong pause. In
writing, these words are separated from the sentence they introduce by a
comma.
Ex: She was feeling very ill. However, she went to school.
Ex: You need some help with your homework. Nevertheless, there are times when
no one can help you and you have to do it yourself.
4. ‘Whereas’ links two contrasting ideas. These ideas are not separated by
commas.
Ex: The original movie was quite interesting whereas the remake was really
boring.
Here are some examples of linkers of contrast taken from the article C, eh? N,
eh? D, eh? CANADA! :
Ex1: ‘Any amount of variation upon the endless themes of nature, wildlife, cold,
and poutine could be expected. However, ask someone to imitate a Canadian and
there’s only one possible response: the eh.’
Ex2: ‘Rural folk would be more proud of their usage of eh as it is part of their
Canadian culture whereas the bourgeoisie would be more likely to claim they
speak proper English.’
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