Contrasting ideas in your exam
Contrasting Ideas
When we look at the idea of contrasting things we are considering two ways of doing this.
The first of these is contrast. Contrast words allow us to look at differences between people or things that are being compared.
The second way of contrasting ideas is through something called concession. Concession expresses an idea that suggests the opposite of the main part of the sentence.
Let’s look at some examples of how contrast works.
Contrast
There are two ways to look at how we contrast information and we often use a different type of word or expression. When we contrast ideas in a sentence we typically use single words. Our second method of using a following sentence to do this and here we often use longer expressions as a part of a more detailed idea. 
Let’s see some examples of these.
In a sentence
We really wanted to go to that concert; however, we could not afford the tickets.
Across sentences
Planning an effective marketing campaign is a challenge. On the one hand, the reward of a successful one is very satisfying.
Concession
Concession is commonly used in both spoken and written English, especially in persuasive texts, discussions, and academic writing like essays. It helps to demonstrate a fair and balanced approach to a topic by recognising differing opinions.
It also helps to show an ability to organise ideas and texts in exam situations. We can use some of the expressions we’ve seen before by using words or phrases such as
- although
- while
- despite
- admittedly
- granted that
In this case these expressions signal that the following statement or part of a statement will present a contradictory or opposing idea. Let’s see some examples.
- While this approach may be useful, there are other ways to look at this problem.
In this example sentence the writer is using the concession word while to consider alternatives. By joining with the information in this sentence with what came before and also what’s coming next it shows a more sophisticated way of organizing ideas.
- Certainly, there is a need for these matters to be discussed. But that does not mean that such concerns should not be expressed and investigated.
Here the writer or speaker is offering two different opinions. By using but in the second sentence they are trying to show a balance in their opinion about this topic.
- Individuals have rights to freedom, but medical evidence shows that second-hand smoke is harmful. It is fair to say that nobody has the right to harm the health of another.
In this example the writer is using but once again to show a concession. In this case they are trying to use the two pieces of information to persuade the reader of their opinion.
Here are some examples of contrasting linking words commonly used at a B2 level of English:
However – Used to introduce a contrast or opposite idea.
- Example: She loves reading. However, she doesn’t enjoy writing.
On the other hand – Used to present a contrasting idea or point of view.
- Example: He is very outgoing. On the other hand, his brother is quite shy.
Although/Though – Used to show a contrast between two ideas in the same sentence.
- Example: Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.
But – A simple word used to contrast two ideas or statements.
- Example: I wanted to go to the park, but it started to rain.
In contrast – Used to highlight the difference between two things.
- Example: The weather in the mountains is cold and snowy. In contrast, the coast is warm and sunny.
Whereas – Used to compare two things that are different in some way.
- Example: My sister likes classical music, whereas I prefer rock.
Yet – Often used to introduce a contrast or contradiction.
- Example: He is very talented, yet he doesn’t seem to enjoy performing.
Nevertheless – Used to introduce a contrasting idea that still doesn’t change the main point.
- Example: It was a difficult task. Nevertheless, I managed to finish it on time.
These linking words help in creating clear contrasts in sentences and making communication more effective.