Linking ideas to show contrast and concession is common in academic writing. There is a slight difference, however, between a simple contrast and a concession. Consider this sentence:
- Western Canada is quite mountainous; however, the prairie provinces are very flat.
In this sentence, we are making a simple contrast, which means we are making a comparison to show a difference between two subjects. The idea of concession is slightly different:
- Although the city council agreed that a new arena would be too expensive, they decided to approve the project.
This sentence expresses a concession—what we have said in one clause is slightly unexpected because of what we said in the other clause. It is slightly surprising that both of these statements are true because they oppose each other. Here are common linking devices to express concession:
- however
- although
- despite
- yet
- nevertheless
- though
- in spite of
- even so
- still
- even though
- nonetheless
- while
Examples:
- She has been studying German for several months, yet she cannot understand a word of it.
- Flying is expensive and the service is generally poor; nevertheless, it is the preferred method of travel for most people.
- Although the situation seems hopeless, it is important to remain optimistic.
- Despite the risks, they chose to continue up the mountain.
Unlock full access by logging in. Registered users can explore the entire lesson and more.