Connectors of contrast or contrasting conjunctions are phrases used to highlight differences between ideas. They signal that the information following the connector contradicts what has come before.
Below is a list of common words that help introduce contraductory statements.
The table below summarises different contrast connectors, their usage, and example sentences to help you understand how to use them correctly.
| Type | Connector | Usage | Example sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conjunctive adverbs | however, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, conversely | Used to introduce contrast between independent clauses; preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. | He studied very hard; however, he did not pass the exam. |
| Comparative phrases | on the other hand, in contrast, by contrast | Used to highlight differences between two ideas; followed by a comma if placed at the beginning of a sentence. | She loves classical music. In contrast, her brother listens to heavy metal. |
| Contradiction | On the contrary | Used to directly contradict a previous statement; preceded by a semicolon or period. | People think she is unfriendly. On the contrary, she is very kind. |
| Subordinating conjunctions | whereas, while | Introduce subordinate clauses expressing direct contrast; a comma is used when the subordinate clause comes first. | She prefers coffee, whereas he always drinks tea. |
| Concessive conjunctions | although, even though, though, albeit | Introduce dependent clauses with contrasting information; a comma is used if they start a sentence. | Although he was tired, he continued working on his project. |
| Prepositional contrast | despite, in spite of, notwithstanding | Followed by noun phrases or -ing forms; "the fact that" can be added to introduce a full clause. | Despite the rain, they went for a walk in the park. |
| Coordinating conjunctions | But, yet | Join two independent clauses; comma is required before them. | She wanted to go to the party, but she had to work late. |
| Other expressions | even so, regardless of, be that as it may | Introduce surprising contrast or unexpected outcomes. | She was not fully prepared. Even so, she performed well in the competition. |
Now, let's look at them in more detail. Below, we will explore each category of contrast connectors, explaining their specific functions, punctuation rules, and providing additional examples to illustrate how they are used in different contexts.
The connectors however, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, and conversely are conjunctive adverbs used to introduce contrasting information between independent clauses. When linking two independent clauses, they are preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. They can also start a new sentence, in which case they are followed by a comma.
The phrases on the other hand, in contrast, and by contrast highlight a difference between two statements. They are commonly used when comparing two subjects or situations. When placed at the beginning of a sentence, they are followed by a comma. If used in the middle of a sentence, they are usually preceded by a period or semicolon.
The phrase on the contrary is used when directly contradicting a previous statement rather than simply presenting a contrasting idea. It is often preceded by a semicolon or period and followed by a comma.
The words whereas and while introduce subordinate clauses that express a direct contrast between two elements. When the subordinate clause comes before the main clause, a comma is used. If it follows the main clause, no comma is required.
The connectors although, even though, though, and albeit introduce subordinate clauses that present contrasting information. When the subordinate clause appears first, it should be followed by a comma. The word albeit is more formal and is followed by an adjective, adverb, or noun phrase.
The phrases despite, in spite of, and notwithstanding are prepositions that must be followed by a noun phrase or the -ing form of a verb. To introduce a full clause, they are often combined with "the fact that."
The words but and yet are coordinating conjunctions that join two independent clauses. When they connect complete sentences, a comma is placed before them.
Other useful contrast expressions include even so, regardless of, and be that as it may. These phrases function similarly to conjunctive adverbs, introducing unexpected or opposing ideas.
The word still can function as a sentence adverb to introduce an idea that is surprising given the previous statement. In this case, it is typically placed at the beginning of the sentence and followed by a comma.
