These clauses give information that contrasts with or opposes the facts in the main clause in an unexpected way.

It is important to use the conjunction with the right part of the sentence. Which of the following is correct?

  • It was much too difficult even though I tried to understand it.
  • Even though it was much too difficult, I tried to understand it.

In the above examples sentences, only the second sentence makes sense.

Introducing Background Information

Although, Even though, and Though are followed by a verb phrase.

  • Although she knew the programme, she didn't think that it would present so many challenges.
  • She's decided to take the course even though she's been made aware of its demands.

The prepositions, In spite of and Despite can be followed by a noun phrase or ~ing form:

  • In spite of the rise in tuition fees, enrolment at most universities and technical institutes are up.
  • Despite rising tuition fees, more students are attending post-secondary institutes.

Introducing the Unexpected Contrast

We use But or an adverbial, not a concession clause to introduce a contrast:

  • She may be annoying sometimes, but we're still friends.

Another word or phrase can be added to But to strengthen the contrast:

  • Many university graduates are unemployed, but still, I want my children to attend one.
  • Many students ought to be encouraged to attend technical institutes, but even so, many parents won't hear of it.

Contrast or opposition is often expressed by starting a second sentence with an adverbial:

  • The instruction was terrible. Nevertheless, we successfully completed the assignments.
  • Personally, I'm dead against raising tuition fees. However, I think I'm in the minority.

Some adverbials can come at the end of the second sentence:

  • I completed all the assignments. I wasn't happy with the results, though. (This word order is often used as a comment.)
  • I completed all the assignments. Though, I wasn't happy with the results.

Position of Linking Words

Concession clauses can come as the first or second part of a sentence:

  • I completed the course right to the end although I was extremely bored. (Focus on being bored)
  • Although I was extremely bored, I completed the course. (Focus on completed)

Exercise

Using what you have learned, complete the activity.

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