Linking words: although, despite, whereas, unless, in case
Contrast, opposition, condition and purpose, with their grammar.
| Linker | Meaning | Followed by | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| although / though / even though | contrast | + clause | Although it was late, he stayed. |
| despite / in spite of | contrast | + noun / -ing | Despite the rain, we went out. Despite being tired… |
| whereas / while | opposition between two facts | + clause | I like tea, whereas she likes coffee. |
| unless | if … not | + present | I'll come unless it rains. |
| in case | as a precaution | + present | Take an umbrella in case it rains. |
| so that | purpose (different subject) | + can / could / will | I'll speak slowly so that you can understand. |
| however | contrast (start of sentence + comma) | — | It was cheap. However, it was ugly. |
Test yourself
-
Complete: ___ the traffic, we arrived on time.
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Despite / In spite of -
Complete: ___ he's rich, he's not happy.
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Although / Even though -
Complete: Take your phone ___ you get lost.
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in case -
Correct: In spite of he was ill, he came.
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Although he was ill, he came. / In spite of being ill, he came.