Contrast and concession

• "whereas" compares two different facts in one sentence.
• "In spite of" is followed by a noun: "the bad weather".
• "Even though" is followed by a full clause: "he trained every day".
• "Nevertheless" links two sentences and is followed by a comma.
• "Despite" is followed by a noun or an -ing form.
• "Even though" + clause, comma, main clause.

• My brother is outgoing, whereas I am quite shy.
• In spite of the bad weather, the event was a success.
• Even though he trained every day, he lost the race.
• The plan is risky. Nevertheless, it is worth trying.
• Despite studying hard, she failed the exam.
• Even though I was tired, I kept working.

Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.

More in Exam Writing

• Cause and effect
• Giving examples