although, despite, however, whereas: linking an argument
Show contrast precisely, with the right grammar after each linking word
What you'll be able to do
Write clear arguments in essays, reports and emails, and compare options fairly, using the linking words that make your reasoning easy to follow.
The words and what follows them
| Linker | Followed by | Example |
|---|---|---|
| although / even though / though | a clause (subject + verb) | Although it was raining, we went out. |
| despite / in spite of | a noun or -ing | Despite the rain, we went out. / Despite feeling tired, she finished. |
| however | a new sentence (often after a full stop or semicolon) | The plan is cheap. However, it's risky. |
| whereas / while | a contrast between two facts | I prefer the city, whereas my partner loves the countryside. |
- Although the hotel was expensive, the service was poor.a surprising contrast
- Despite the delay, we arrived on time.despite + a noun
- The first option is faster. However, it costs more.a contrast between sentences
- Some people work best in the morning, whereas others prefer the evening.comparing two facts
Despite and in spite of never take a subject + verb directly: despite it was raining. Say despite the rain, despite it raining, or despite the fact that it was raining.
Common mistakes
Despite of the rain…→ Despite the rain… or In spite of the rain…Although the rain, we went out.Although needs a clause: Although it was raining…The plan is cheap, however it's risky.In careful writing, use a full stop or semicolon before however.
Practice
- _____ the bad weather, the festival was a big success.Options: Despite · Although · However
Show the answer
Despite — Despite + a noun phrase.
- _____ she had no experience, she got the job.Options: Although · Despite · In spite of
Show the answer
Although — Although + a clause (subject + verb).
- The flat is in a great location. _____, it's very small.Options: However · Although · Despite
Show the answer
However — However connects two sentences.
- My brother loves spicy food, _____ I can't eat it at all.Options: whereas · despite · however
Show the answer
whereas — Whereas compares two contrasting facts.
- In spite _____ the delay, we arrived on time.
Show the answer
of — In spite of + a noun (despite has no of).
In the app, this lesson is taught one idea at a time with the examples read aloud, then practised with questions you answer by choosing or typing. It comes back for review on later days, until you can use it without help.
More on this topic: Linking words: although, despite, however, whereas