LoginConjunctions of Concession
In this lesson, master conjunctions of concession to connect contrasting ideas using combinations like "although," "though," and "even though." Clear explanations and practice exercises to help you learn.
What Are Conjunctions of Concession?
Conjunctions of concession or conjunctions of contrast are used to show a relationship between two clauses where the second clause presents a fact or idea that is in contrast to the first clause.
Common Conjunctions of Concession
Here is a list of common subordinating conjunctions of concession:
Even Though, Though, Although
The conjunction 'even though' is used to introduce a clause that presents a fact or idea that contrasts with or contradicts the main clause. It emphasizes the contrast between two events or actions and can convey a sense of surprise toward something happening in spite of a situation or fact. Here are a few examples:
Even though she was sad, she managed to smile and say hi.
People are happy, even though there are problems.
Though is used as a conjunction of concession to indicate contrast and means in spite of the fact that. It is generally less formal. Here are some examples:
Though she's almost 60, she is still in pretty good shape.
Though they were talking quietly, he could hear them.
Although is another conjunction of concession that is similar in meaning to 'though' and 'even though'. It is generally more formal. Here are a few examples:
Although his mother was right there, he ignored her.
I couldn't learn to swim although I had a personal trainer.
Tip!
'Though' can sometimes be used at the end of the sentence in which case it acts as an adverb. Here are the examples:
Though the rooms are small, they are pleasant and airy.
He had the best car, his son was in love with bikes though.
Even If
In addition to meaning 'despite the fact that,' the conjunction 'even if' also has the added sense of 'in spite of the possibility that,' which poses a hypothetical contrast. Here are some examples:
We will play outside even if it rains.
Even if you are tired, you have to study for the exam.
Whereas
The conjunction 'whereas' is used to introduce a clause that presents a contrasting or comparative fact or idea in relation to the main clause. Here are a few examples:
I like to go on trips on holidays, whereas my wife prefers to stay home.
Mary loves to read, whereas her sister enjoys watching TV.
While
The conjunction 'while' can be used like 'whereas' to show the contrast between two facts. It can also be used like 'although' to indicate that something happens in spite of a fact or situation. Here are a few examples:
While I like coffee, my sister prefers tea.
similar to 'whereas'
While I'm not a big fan of the sport, I don't mind watching the game with you.
similar to 'although'
'But' and 'Yet'
'But' and 'yet' are coordinating conjunctions that are used to show contrast and concession. Here are some examples:
Pietro was happy, yet something felt wrong in his heart.
I didn't love him, but I kind of felt sorry for him.
I don't like math, but I am good at it.
Punctuation Rules
Conjunctions of concession are subordinating conjunctions and can be used to connect a subordinate clause to a main clause. If the subordinate clause comes at the beginning of the sentence, a comma must separate it from the main clause. If the main clause comes first and the subordinate clause follows, no comma is needed. Take a look at the examples:
She failed the test although she studied hard.
Even though Marco is tall and handsome, I am in love with Gaz.
Concession Clauses
Concession clauses are used to show a contrast between two ideas or action. Apart from the conjunctions of contrast and concession which we discussed in this lesson, contrast and concession can also be expressed using:
Here are a few examples:
Despite his attempts, he was not allowed to participate in the competition.
They thought you would come; however, I was almost sure you wouldn't.
What Are Concession Adverbs?
A number of conjunctive adverbs can express a relationship of contrast between two clauses, including:
Here are some examples:
They shouted at her; however, she didn't care at all.
I don't know him; still, he seems dangerous.
What Are Concession Prepositions?
Some prepositions can be used to express contrast between ideas, including:
Unlike
In spite of
Despite
Contrary to
Here are a few examples:
He won despite his injury.
I translated the text in spite of my limited knowledge of the language.
Review
Concession conjunctions are subordinating and coordinating conjunctions that link two clauses with contrasting ideas to each other. Here are the concession conjunctions in English:
Even though
Though
Although
Even if
While
Whereas
But
Yet
Quiz:
Which sentence uses "whereas" correctly to show contrast?
She loves hiking, whereas her brother prefers reading.
Whereas it was raining, we canceled the picnic.
He passed the exam whereas studying all night.
Whereas tired, she finished the project.
Sort the words to form a correct sentence.
Which sentence uses "while" to show contrast?
He scrolled on his phone while waiting for the bus.
While I respect your opinion, I disagree.
She danced while the music played.
While in Paris, they visited the Louvre.
Complete each sentence using the correct conjunction of contrast.
the evidence was weak, the jury still convicted him.
Jason loves the city,
his brother prefers a quiet life in the countryside.
I'll attend the meeting
I'm not feeling well.
I admire his talent, I dislike his arrogance.
Complete the table by by choosing whether the bolded word in each sentence is a conjunction, adverb, or preposition of concession.
Although the software was buggy, we launched it. | |
The road was icy; nevertheless, she drove to work. | |
Whereas Maya loves cities, Leo prefers villages. | |
He aced the exam despite his limited preparation. | |
I'll support you; however, I disagree with your plan. |
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