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Advanced Contrast Linking Words Practice
Multiple Choice Questions Intermediate
Choose the correct linking word (despite, however, or although) for each sentence.
__________ extensive research in the field, the scientists couldn't find conclusive evidence to support their hypothesis.
Grammar Note: "Despite" is correct here because it's followed by a noun phrase ("extensive research"). "Although" would require a full clause ("Although they conducted extensive research"). "However" doesn't fit this grammatical structure.
The economic indicators showed positive growth last quarter. __________, unemployment rates remain stubbornly high.
Usage Tip: "However" is used here to contrast two independent ideas in separate sentences. Note the comma after "however" and that it doesn't connect grammatically to either clause but shows a conceptual contrast.
__________ the team had prepared meticulously for the presentation, technical difficulties undermined their efforts.
Grammar Note: "Although" is correct because it introduces a subordinate clause with a subject ("the team") and verb ("had prepared"). This structure shows concession between two related clauses.
The novel received mixed reviews from critics. __________, it became an instant bestseller among general readers.
Advanced Note: "However" is used here to contrast evaluation (critics' reviews) with commercial success. This is a common journalistic pattern showing unexpected outcomes.
__________ having no formal training in architecture, she designed one of the most innovative buildings of the decade.
Grammar Note: "Despite" is correct because it's followed by a gerund phrase ("having no formal training"). This structure emphasizes achievement against expectations.
Sentence Rewriting Advanced
Rewrite each sentence using the linking word in parentheses while keeping the same meaning.
Original: The project was completed on time even though there were numerous setbacks.
Rewrite with: (despite)
Suggested Answer: Despite numerous setbacks, the project was completed on time.
Transformation Tip: When changing from "even though" to "despite," the clause ("there were") becomes a noun phrase ("numerous setbacks"). This makes the sentence more concise.
Original: The data suggests the treatment is effective. The sample size was quite small.
Rewrite with: (however)
Suggested Answer: The data suggests the treatment is effective; however, the sample size was quite small.
Punctuation Note: When using "however" to join two independent clauses, you can use either a semicolon before it or start a new sentence. Both are correct but convey slightly different rhythms.
Original: In spite of the company's financial difficulties, they didn't lay off any employees.
Rewrite with: (although)
Suggested Answer: Although the company had financial difficulties, they didn't lay off any employees.
Grammar Note: When changing from "in spite of" (similar to "despite") to "although," the noun phrase ("the company's financial difficulties") needs to become a clause with a subject and verb ("the company had financial difficulties").
Paragraph Completion Advanced
Complete the paragraph by filling in the blanks with appropriate contrast linking words (despite, however, although).
The debate about climate change continues in some political circles. __________ (1) overwhelming scientific consensus on the issue, certain groups remain skeptical. __________ (2), the evidence from multiple independent studies is remarkably consistent. __________ (3) some variation exists in climate models, all point to significant warming trends. __________ (4) these clear indicators, policy responses have been slow to materialize.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Suggested Answers:
1. Despite
2. However
3. Although
4. Despite
Analysis: This exercise shows how these linking words work together in academic writing. "Despite" introduces contrasting facts, "however" adds a new contrasting point, "although" concedes a minor point before emphasizing the main argument, and the final "despite" highlights the central paradox.
Mastering Contrast Linking Words
Proper Usage of Contrast Linking Words
Despite/In spite of:
- Followed by a noun, pronoun, or -ing form
- More formal than "although"
- Often used to emphasize unexpected outcomes
- Example: "Despite the rain, the event was well-attended."
Although/Even though/Though:
- Followed by a subject + verb
- "Even though" is more emphatic than "although"
- "Though" is more informal and often used at the end of sentences
- Example: "Although it was raining, the event was well-attended."
However:
- Used at the beginning of a sentence or after a semicolon
- Always followed by a comma
- Can be moved within the sentence for emphasis
- Example: "The rain was heavy; however, the event was well-attended."
Academic and Professional Examples
Academic Writing:
"Despite numerous attempts to replicate the experiment, the results remained inconsistent. However, this inconsistency doesn't necessarily invalidate the original findings. Although the sample size was small, the effect size was statistically significant."
Business Report:
"The company saw increased revenue this quarter. However, operating costs rose at a higher rate. Although we implemented cost-saving measures, these were offset by unexpected supply chain disruptions."
Journalism:
"Despite widespread criticism, the policy remains popular with the base. However, analysts question its long-term sustainability. Although the immediate effects are positive, the long-term consequences remain uncertain."
Common Errors to Avoid
Error 1: Using "despite" with a subject and verb
✖ Despite she was tired, she continued working.
✔ Despite being tired, she continued working. or Although she was tired, she continued working.
Error 2: Forgetting the comma after "however"
✖ The results were promising however more research is needed.
✔ The results were promising; however, more research is needed.
Error 3: Using "although" with a noun phrase
✖ Although his lack of experience, he got the job.
✔ Despite his lack of experience, he got the job. or Although he lacked experience, he got the job.
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