A concession clause expresses a contrast or an unexpected result: something happens in spite of a condition that might be expected to prevent it. For example: Although he studied hard, he failed the exam. The clause introduced by although states a condition that would normally lead to success, while the main clause gives the surprising, opposite outcome. Concession connectors, as classified in the Cambridge Grammar reference, are essential for B2–C1 academic and formal English. A very common learner mistake is doubling up two contrast markers in one sentence — Although he studied hard, but he failed is ungrammatical; only one connector (although or but) is needed. Learners who can handle although, despite and whereas accurately and flexibly score significantly higher in Cambridge and IELTS writing tasks.
Subordinating Conjunctions: although, even though, though
These introduce a subordinate clause (subject + verb) expressing a concession. The main clause states the surprising or contrasting outcome.
- although — neutral formal: Although it rained, we enjoyed the walk.
- even though — stronger emphasis: Even though she studied all night, she failed.
- though — informal; can also end a sentence: It was expensive, though.
Prepositions: despite, in spite of
Despite and in spite of are followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund — NOT a clause. They mean the same thing; in spite of is slightly more formal.
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| despite + noun | Despite the rain, we went out. |
| despite + gerund | Despite being tired, she finished the report. |
| in spite of + noun | In spite of the traffic, they arrived on time. |
| despite the fact that + clause | Despite the fact that it rained, we went out. |
Adverbs and Linking Phrases: however, nevertheless, nonetheless, yet
These connect two separate sentences or independent clauses. They follow a semicolon or full stop and are typically followed by a comma.
- The project was expensive. However, it was worth it.
- She had no experience. Nevertheless, she got the job.
- The results were mixed; nonetheless, the team was pleased.
whereas vs while for Contrast
Whereas and while (used as contrast markers) show a direct contrast between two things or situations. They do not imply surprise — just difference.
- Whereas the north is cold, the south is warm.
- While some students prefer group work, others learn better alone.
Common Mistakes
- Wrong: Although it was cold, but we went out. Correct: Although it was cold, we went out. (no but after although)
- Wrong: Despite it rained, we walked. Correct: Despite the rain, we walked. (despite needs a noun/gerund, not a clause)
- Wrong: However it was difficult, she managed. Correct: Although it was difficult, she managed. (however is not a conjunction; use although)
Practice Exercises
Grammar Quiz
Choose the correct concession connector for each sentence.
Cloze Dropdown
Select although, despite, however, or whereas in context.
Complete the Sentence
Rewrite sentences using different concession structures.
Match-Up
Match each connector to its grammatical category.
Flash Cards
Drill the difference between despite, although, and however.
Practice What You’ve Learned
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a concession clause?
A concession clause expresses a contrast or an unexpected result — something happens despite a condition that might prevent it. Common markers are although, even though, despite, in spite of, whereas, and nevertheless. Example: Although she was exhausted, she kept working.
What is the difference between 'although' and 'despite'?
'Although' is a conjunction that introduces a clause with a subject and verb: Although it was cold, we went out. 'Despite' is a preposition followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund: Despite the cold, we went out / Despite being cold. Never write 'despite it was cold' — despite cannot precede a full clause (use 'despite the fact that' instead).
Can I use 'but' and 'although' together in one sentence?
No. 'Although' and 'but' are both concession/contrast markers and cannot be used together: 'Although it rained, but we went out' is wrong. Choose one: 'Although it rained, we went out' or 'It rained, but we went out.' This is a very common mistake in essays.
What is the difference between 'however' and 'although'?
'However' is a linking adverb that connects two separate sentences or clauses separated by a full stop or semicolon: It was expensive. However, it was worth it. 'Although' is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a dependent clause within one sentence: Although it was expensive, it was worth it. Never use 'however' like a conjunction at the start of a clause within one sentence.
What is the difference between 'whereas' and 'although'?
'Whereas' expresses a factual contrast between two equal and parallel situations, without implying surprise: Whereas the north is cold, the south is warm. 'Although' introduces an unexpected result despite a stated condition: Although it was cold (unexpected: we still went out). 'Whereas' does not imply surprise, just difference.
What is the difference between 'even though' and 'although'?
'Even though' is more emphatic than 'although' and signals stronger surprise or contrast: Even though she had a fever, she came to work (stronger emotional emphasis). 'Although' is more neutral. In formal writing, both are acceptable, but 'even though' carries more force. 'Though' is the informal equivalent, often placed at the end of a sentence.
How do I use 'despite the fact that'?
'Despite the fact that' is used when you want the preposition 'despite' but need to introduce a full clause. It is followed by a subject and verb: Despite the fact that it rained, we had fun. This is more formal and verbose than 'although'; use 'although' in most contexts unless you need the noun structure for stylistic variation.
What is the difference between 'nevertheless' and 'however'?
Both are linking adverbs that introduce a contrasting idea in a new sentence. 'Nevertheless' (and 'nonetheless') carry a stronger sense of persisting against an obstacle: The risks were clear. Nevertheless, she proceeded. 'However' is more general and simply marks contrast. 'Nevertheless' and 'nonetheless' are more formal and more emphatic.
Do concession clauses need a comma?
When the concession clause comes first, use a comma after it: Although it rained, we went out. When it comes second, a comma is optional but often omitted: We went out although it rained. With 'however' and 'nevertheless' at the start of a sentence, always use a comma after the connector: However, the results were mixed.
Are concession clauses important for IELTS and Cambridge exams?
Very much so. Examiners at B2–C1 level expect candidates to use a range of concession structures accurately. Arguments in IELTS Task 2 and Cambridge Writing tasks are stronger when you acknowledge the opposing view with 'although' or 'even though' and then counter it. Accurate use of despite vs although vs however also demonstrates grammatical range.