Contrast Phrases

Do you know how to use these contrast words and phrases?

There are a number of ways to connect contrasting ideas.

• "Despite" and "in spite of" are used as prepositions. Both are followed by a noun or a gerund.

In spite of my hard work, I didn’t do well on the test.                                                         

"Despite working hard, I didn’t do well on the test."

• "Although" and "even though" have the same meaning.

Both are used to begin an adverb clause

"Although she was tired, she studied all night."

• "However", "nevertheless", and "on the other hand" are transitions.

They are used to start a second that contrasts the information in the first sentence by showing and unexpected result.

These transitions are followed by a comma.

• However and nevertheless express concession (or an allowance) to the information in the first sentence.

"The city is very expensive. However, I love living here."

• On the other hand is used to start a second sentence that expresses clear contrast with the first sentence, such as different facts or opposing opinions.

"I love living in the city. On the other hand, my husband would like to move to the country."