“In Contrast” Transition Words to Use (List and Examples)

An article or a document sounds better when transitional phrases and words are used to link one concept to the next. There are numerous ways in which different transitional words can be used. Compare or contrast transitional words are used to point out differences or alternatives in a sentence.

Different types of “in contrast” transition words

The “in contrast” transition words can be classified on the basis of the ideas they convey in a sentence.

Transition words providing contrast emphasis

These “in contrast” transition words are used when presenting information that differs from what has already been written or spoken, or from what might be predicted in light of a prior point. Some common transition words providing contrast emphasis and their examples are given below:

Word:

but

Example:

I have gastritis but I love spicy food.

Word:

unlike

Example:

Jenna can dance well, unlike her brother James.

Word:

whereas

Example:

I am working in advertising, whereas my sister is working as a software programmer.

Word:

conversely

Example:

She usually orders vegetarian, but he, conversely, tends to order non-vegetarian.

Word:

however

Example:

I love that shirt; however, it does not fit me properly.

Word:

in contrast

Example:

All the proofs submitted to the court were in contrast to his testimony.

Word:

on the contrary

Example:

The food is not that bad; on the contrary, it tastes delicious.

Word:

On the one hand… On the other hand

Example:

On the one hand, I love the joy and satisfaction that come with starting a business, but on the other hand, I am worried about financial insecurity.

Transitional phrases to indicate contrast in a result

We can also use transitional phrases and words when discussing how something happened as opposed to what was anticipated. Some common transition words indicating contrast in a result and their examples are given below:

Word:

all the same

Example:

We started late from New York but reached Chicago on time, all the same.

Word:

even so

Example:

My father does not like cats; even so, he took care of my two cats.

Word:

in spite of

Example:

He was always smiling in spite of his terrible illness.

Word:

nevertheless

Example:

The French test was quite easy; nevertheless, he got a bad grade.

Word:

nonetheless

Example:

Though the dog looks harmless, I am afraid of it nonetheless.

Word:

still

Example:

My grandmother is 90 and still goes on a walk every morning.

Word:

yet

Example:

I am going to London tomorrow, yet John has refused to return my book.

Word:

although

Example:

Although Jonah was sick, he went to watch the football match.

Word:

despite

Example:

Annie enjoyed the carnival, despite the sweltering heat.

Word:

even though

Example:

He was fired from the company even though he put in his best work.

In contrast transition words for contrasting suggestions and solutions

These words are used to indicate that your solution or suggestion contrasts with some other suggestion. Some common words include:

Word:

alternatively

Example:

We could try the new cafe down the road, or alternatively, we could go to our usual place.

Word:

instead of

Example:

Lily used oil instead of butter in the dish, and it tasted bad.

Exercise on in contrast transition words

Now that “in contrast” transition words have been discussed in detail, use the practice assignment provided below to assess your understanding of “in contrast” transition words. Identify if the correct “in contrast” transition words are used in the sentences given below. If not, correct the sentences with the appropriate “in contrast” transition words.

1. Jenna is really good at cooking, unlike Anna, who adds extra salt to every dish.
2. The movie was interesting on the other hand it was difficult to understand.
3. Jacob refused to take the umbrella in spite of it was raining buckets.
4. My dogs love going to the park in comparison to going to the beach.
5. The company has increased the export of its products even though international sales remain unchanged over the years.
6. James needed to go to New York urgently, despite he would have waited for you to arrive.
7. Instead of going on a vacation this year, we decided to have a staycation.
8. Susie ordered tea on the contrary she got coffee.
9. The previous prime minister was weel-like among the citizens in contrast to the present one.
10. Notwithstanding an excellent defense, he was convicted.

FAQs

What are the common mistakes that can be easily avoided when using “in contrast” transition words?

1. Avoid using transitions excessively: Although the purpose of “in contrast” transition words is to help readers follow along with your writing, employing them excessively may have the reverse effect and leave readers confused.
2. Ensure the sentence sounds logical after using transitions: The “in contrast” transition words show the difference between ideas and words. So, if the link they suggest isn’t clear or doesn’t exist, the reader may misinterpret the intended idea.
3. Avoid other grammatical or syntax errors: The “in contrast” transition words need to be used carefully to avoid mistakes like comma splices and sentence fragments.

What is the difference between “in contrast” and “compare” transition words?

The “in contrast” words show differing or contrasting arguments whereas “compare” transition words show similar facts or ideas that lend credence to a statement.

Sources:

1. Merriam-Webster – by/in contrast
2. The Writing Center – Transitions (ESL)
3. ESL Forums – List of 30+ Useful Contrast Transition Words for Writing Essay
4. PapersOwl – Transition Words For A Compare And Contrast Essay