2. CONTRAST
Two things are different from
each other
Words that tell the reader that
two ideas are different from
each other
however
though
on the other hand
in contrast
nevertheless
nonetheless
in spite of this
despite this
COMPARISON
Two things are similar to
each other.
Words such that tell the
reader that two ideas are
similar to each other:
likewise
similarly
3. SUBORDINATORS SHOWING CONTRAST
Adverb clauses show an idea that is different from the idea in a
main clause.
Whereas Spiderman worked alone, Ironman was a member of the
Avengers.
adverb clause
main clause
4. SUBORDINATORS
Subordinators emphasize one idea over the other – or, to put it
another way, they subordinate one idea to another. The lesser idea
is subordinated:
Because you are sick, we take you to a doctor.
(The cause is subordinated to the effect.)
If you like stinky tofu, I’ll buy some.
(The condition is subordinated to the outcome.)
When Jason comes to class, I’ll talk to him.
(The time is subordinated to the activity.)
5. SUBORDINATORS SHOWING CONTRAST
Common subordinators include:
Although – Though (can show different ideas)
Whereas – While (can show opposite ideas)
Use a comma when the adverb clause
is at the beginning of the sentence
Both have popular movies
although the Avengers made a
lot more money.
Whereas Spiderman works alone,
the Avengers work together.
6. TRANSITIONS
Transitions don’t emphasize one idea over another.
I like cheese, but I can’t eat it.
My girlfriend ran away, so I decided to look for another.
The test was hard; however, you shouldn’t feel bad about it.
7. TRANSITIONS SHOWING CONTRAST & CONCESSION
Transitions can also link the ideas of two sentences. They usually come
at the beginning of the second sentence.
Use a comma to separate them from the rest of the sentence.
• The X-Men was the first superhero group movie. However, the
Avengers has become the most popular.
• The Hulk is always angry. In contrast, Spiderman loves to make jokes.
• There aren’t very many female superheroes. Nonetheless, many girls
still enjoy reading comic books.
Common transition words:
--------------------------- contrast --------------------------
*However – Though
----------------- More direct opposition -----------------
On the other hand – In contrast
-------------------------- Concession --------------------------
Nevertheless – Nonetheless – In spite of this – Despite this
--------------------------------------------------------------------
*However and though can go in the beginning, middle, or end
of a sentence.
8. CONTRAST
Because subordinators elevate one idea over another, you can
use these to present contrasts, and to show focus on one idea
or another.
Although your work has improved a good deal, …
[Are you ready for good or bad news? Bad news!]
… you still can’t pass the class.
Although you haven’t really made much effort, ….
[Here, you’re ready for good news, aren’t you?]
… you’ve done easily enough to get a passing grade.
Although I can’t afford it, I really want to go to Spring Scream.
I really want to go to Spring Scream, although I can’t afford it.
9. CONCESSION
Concessions allow the writer to say yes, a different
idea is true, but not really important. This is very
useful for arguments, where you need to agree
with different points of view but still let your reader
know what you yourself believe.
Listening to music while studying makes students
happy. Nonetheless, it makes them remember less.
Many people say they have seen ghosts.
Nevertheless, there is no proof that ghosts exist.
10. LET’S TRY - GOOD OR BAD?
I can’t stand stinky tofu.
Lots of people like pop music.
Not everyone can become a movie star.
Teachers have to do a lot of work outside of class.
I like both pizza and hamburgers.
Some students may feel like assembly line machines.
Singers need a lot of luck to be successful.
11. LET’S TRY - GOOD OR BAD?
I can’t stand stinky tofu.
Lots of people like pop music.
Not everyone can become a movie star.
Teachers have to do a lot of work outside of class.
I like both pizza and hamburgers.
Some students may feel like assembly line machines.
Singers need a lot of luck to be successful.
12. LET’S TRY - GOOD OR BAD?
I can’t stand stinky tofu. Nevertheless _____________.
Although Lots of people like pop music _____________________ .
Not everyone can become a movie star. Likewise ________________.
Teachers have to do a lot of work outside of class. On the other hand
I like both pizza and hamburgers. However _________________.
Whereas some students may feel like assembly line machines _____.
Singers need a lot of luck to be successful. Similarly _____________.
