Lesson

Contrasts: although and though; even though/if; while, whilst and whereas

Advanced contrast

≈ 15 min 8 block(s)

Text

Contrasts: although / though; even though / even if; while, whilst and whereas

This lesson explains how to use contrast connectors that join two clauses and show unexpected results, opposition, or comparison. You'll learn differences between similar connectors and how to place commas correctly in complex sentences.

  • Use although / though to introduce a contrast (concession).
  • Use even though for a stronger, factual contrast; use even if for hypothetical situations.
  • Use while / whilst / whereas to contrast two facts; while can also mean 'during' (time).
  • Watch punctuation: a subordinating clause at the beginning usually takes a comma.

Table

Contrast Connectors: forms and examples

Connector Function Example
although / though Concession (contrast with a fact) Although sales dropped, the company remained profitable.
even though Strong factual contrast (emphasis) Even though the budget was small, the team met all targets.
even if Hypothetical contrast (condition not necessarily true) Even if the client refuses, we should prepare the proposal.
while / whilst Contrast between two facts; while (also = during) While revenue increased, operating costs decreased.
whereas Formal contrast/comparison between two clauses Whereas last year we expanded, this year we focus on consolidation.

Tip

Key rule: choose connector by meaning

Pick the connector based on whether the contrast is factual, hypothetical, or temporal:

  • Use although / though for general contrast with a real fact.
  • Use even though to emphasize a real/factual opposition.
  • Use even if for hypothetical or conditional contrasts.
  • Use while/whilst/whereas to compare two facts; ensure context (while can mean 'during').

If the subordinate clause comes first, add a comma before the main clause.

Example

Examples in context

Although the client delayed approval, the team finished the project on time.

Even though our budget was cut, we launched the marketing campaign successfully.

Even if the supplier increases prices, we must maintain quality standards.

While sales grew in Europe, sales in Asia declined.

Tip

Common mistakes to avoid

Learners often make predictable errors with contrast connectors. Watch for these universal mistakes:

  • Using 'even if' when the fact is real — use 'even though' for real facts and 'even if' for hypotheticals.
  • Confusing 'while' meaning time (during) and 'while' meaning contrast — check context.
  • Omitting or misplacing the comma when a subordinate clause starts the sentence (Usually: Subordinate, Main).
  • Using 'whereas' in informal speech when a simpler 'but' or 'while' would be clearer.
  • Incorrect word order after the connector (ensure subject + verb follows the connector).

When in doubt, rewrite sentences with 'but' to test the intended contrast or hypotheticity.

Quiz

Choose the correct sentence that uses 'even though' appropriately:

Hint: Focus on a factual contrast that produces a surprising outcome.

Quiz

Complete: _____ she had a limited budget, she increased sales.

Hint: Think about a strong contrast that is presented as factual (not hypothetical).

Quiz

Which sentence uses 'while' to show contrast (not time)?

Hint: Decide whether 'while' expresses time ('during') or contrast ('whereas').

Key Points

GrammarPoint

although

conjunction CEFR B1 //ɔːlˈðoʊ//

Introduces a contrast between two clauses; used with real facts.

Although the forecast predicted rain, the event was held outside.

GrammarPoint

even though

conjunction CEFR B2 //ˌiːvən ˈðoʊ//

Stronger form of 'although' emphasizing a factual contrast or surprising result.

Even though production costs rose, the profit margin improved.

GrammarPoint

even if

conjunction CEFR B2 //ˌiːvən ˈɪf//

Used to introduce a hypothetical or conditional contrast (not necessarily true).

Even if the client rejects the offer, we will propose alternatives.

GrammarPoint

while

conjunction / adverb CEFR B2 //waɪl//

Can mean 'during' (time) or 'whereas' (contrast); context determines meaning.

While the team trained, the managers reviewed the strategy.

GrammarPoint

whereas

conjunction CEFR B2 //wɛəˈræs//

A formal connector used to contrast two clauses or facts.

Whereas competitors cut prices, we improved customer service.

GrammarPoint

whilst

conjunction CEFR B2 //wɪlˈst//

A British formal variant of 'while' used to show contrast or time; less common in informal US English.

Whilst our offices closed for the holiday, the support team remained available.