GV

Linking Words: Contrast

Showing contrast: however, nevertheless, on the other hand, in contrast

intermediate

When to Use Linking Words: Contrast

  • •However: general contrast. It's expensive. However, it's worth it.
  • •Nevertheless/Nonetheless: despite what was said. It's risky; nevertheless, I'll try.
  • •On the other hand: presenting alternative view. It's cheap. On the other hand, quality is poor.
  • •In contrast/By contrast: comparing differences. She's outgoing. In contrast, he's shy.
  • •Although/Though: within same sentence (conjunction, not linker).

How to Form Linking Words: Contrast

Affirmative (+)

Sentence. Contrast linker, sentence. OR Sentence; contrast linker, sentence.

Negative (-)

Same structure

Question (?)

Rarely used in questions

💡 These are sentence adverbs, not conjunctions. They need punctuation.

Examples of Linking Words: Contrast

✓It's expensive. However, it's worth it.

✗It's expensive however it's worth it.

However needs punctuation around it.

✓She studied hard; nevertheless, she failed.

✗She studied hard nevertheless she failed.

Semicolon before, comma after.

✓On the other hand, we could stay home.

✗On the other hand we could stay home.

Comma after linking phrase.

Common Mistakes with Linking Words: Contrast

💡 Practice Tips for Linking Words: Contrast

  • • However/Nevertheless: start new sentence or use semicolon before.
  • • On the other hand: presents alternative perspective.
  • • In contrast: highlights differences between two things.
  • • Don't confuse with although/though (conjunctions within sentence).
Quick Quiz
  1. 1.Which sentence is punctuated correctly? 
  2. 2.She studied hard  nevertheless, she failed.
  3. Question 3: Fix the double connector: But however, I disagree. → blank, I disagree.
    3.Fix the double connector: But however, I disagree. → , I disagree.
  4. Question 4: Choose 'although' or 'however': blank it's expensive, I'll buy it.
    4.Choose 'although' or 'however': it's expensive, I'll buy it.
  5. Question 5: Punctuate: She's outgoing blank in contrast, he's shy.
    5.Punctuate: She's outgoing in contrast, he's shy.
  6. Question 6: Add the comma: On the other hand blank we could stay home.
    6.Add the comma: On the other hand we could stay home.
  7. Question 7: Choose the right linker: The price is low; blank, the quality is excellent. (general contrast linker)
    7.Choose the right linker: The price is low; , the quality is excellent. (general contrast linker)
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