LoginExpressing Contrast
What is Contrast?
Sentences that express contrast can be used to highlight situations where a particular outcome is expected based on existing information, but the actual result is different from what was expected. By emphasizing the difference between the expected outcome and the actual consequence, these sentences can draw attention to any discrepancies that arise.
To show contrast, we can use different classes of words, including:
Subordinating Conjunctions for Expressing Contrast
Some of the common subordinating conjunctions used to indicate comparison include the following:
Although
It is used to introduce a sentence that presents a
Whereas
It is used to introduce a subordinate clause that contrasts with or provides additional information about the main clause. For example:
The company's CEO received a substantial bonus for the year,
While and Whilst
'While' and 'whilst' introduce a subordinate clause that describes a simultaneous or contrasting action or situation to what is happening in the main clause. Pay attention to the examples:
Though and Even though
'Though' and 'even though' are both conjunctions that are used to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses a contrast or concession to what is expressed in the main clause. However, 'even though' emphasizes the
He's not a great speaker,
Coordinating Conjunctions for Expressing Contrast
But
This is one of the most common conjunctions used for contrast. It is used to show a contrast or a shift in direction between the two clauses. For example:
I want to go to the party,
Conjunctive Adverbs for Expressing Contrast
Conjunctive adverbs are typically used to indicate a contrast or concession between two clauses. The following is a list of common conjunctive adverbs used to express contrast:
However
'However' is used to show a contrast between two ideas or situations that are different or unexpected. It is often used to introduce a second point that contradicts the first point. For example:
She had studied hard for the test.
Nevertheless and Nonetheless
'Nevertheless' is used to show a contrast between two ideas or situations that seem incompatible or opposing. It is often used to indicate that despite one situation, the other situation still remains true. 'Nonetheless' is similar to "nevertheless" but is often used to indicate that something
She was exhausted after a long day at work.
The company has faced some setbacks;
On the Other Hand
'On the other hand' is used to introduce a contrasting point of view or situation. It is often used to show a contrast between two ideas or situations that are different or opposing. It can also be used to provide a counterpoint or to present a different perspective. For example:
The city is crowded and noisy;
Conversely
'Conversely' is used to introduce a contrasting point of view or situation that is the opposite of what was previously stated. It is often used to emphasize the difference between two ideas or situations. For example:
Some people believe that social media is harmful;
Yet
'Yet' is used to introduce a contrasting point of view or situation that is unexpected or surprising. It is often used to indicate that something is contrary to what might be expected. For example:
He claims to be a vegan;
Still
'Still' is used to show a contrast between two ideas or situations that are different or opposing. It is often used to indicate that despite one situation, the other situation remains true. For example:
He ran as fast as he could.
Even so
'Even so' is often used to indicate that despite a previous situation or condition, something else is still true. It is often used to emphasize that something is surprising or unexpected given a previous situation or condition. For example:
She's not the most qualified candidate. Even so, her passion and dedication make her a strong contender.
All the Same
It is often used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation that is seemingly incompatible with the previous one, but still true. It is often used to indicate a sense of
She was disappointed that she didn't get the job;
On the Contrary
It is used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation that is opposite or contrary to what has been previously stated. It is often used to emphasize a clear and direct contrast between two things or ideas. For example:
Many people believe that the economy is improving;
Prepositions for Expressing Contrast
Prepositions can be used to show a relationship between two nouns or noun phrases and to highlight a difference or contrast between them. Common prepositions used for showing contrast include the following:
Despite and In Spite of
These prepositions are used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation that is unexpected or contrary to what might be expected. For example:
In Contrast to
'In contrast to' is a prepositional phrase that can be used to show a clear and direct contrast between two things or ideas. It can be used to emphasize differences in characteristics, features, or qualities. For example:
Notwithstanding
'Notwithstanding' can also be used to show contrast or opposition between two ideas or situations. It conveys a sense of opposition or resistance to a previous situation, and emphasizes that something continues or remains the same despite that opposition or resistance. For example:
Comparison vs. Contrast
Comparison is the act of comparing two or more things to determine their similarities and differences. Contrast, on the other hand, is the act of highlighting a difference between what was expected based on the known facts and the actual outcome.
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