C1 · Grammar

Advanced Linking Words

Although, despite, whereas, nevertheless — connecting ideas at a higher register.

Score: 0 / 10

1. ___ the rain, the match continued.

2. ___ it was raining, the match continued.

3. He failed the exam ___ he studied very hard.

4. She was tired; ___, she kept working.

5. ___ his young age, he is very responsible.

6. He was late, ___ he missed the meeting.

7. She prefers tea, ___ her sister prefers coffee.

8. ___ of the heavy traffic, we arrived on time.

9. He is very talented; ___, he lacks confidence.

10. ___ she apologized, he was still angry.

Answer key — Advanced Linking Words (C1)

  1. B — Despite. Despite is followed by a noun phrase, not a full clause: despite the rain.
  2. A — Although. Although is followed by a full clause: although it was raining.
  3. A — although. Although introduces a contrast with a full clause.
  4. B — nevertheless. Nevertheless introduces a contrasting result, similar to "however".
  5. B — Despite. Despite + noun phrase: despite his young age.
  6. C — so. So introduces a result or consequence.
  7. A — whereas. Whereas introduces a contrast between two facts.
  8. B — In spite. In spite of + noun phrase (same meaning as despite): in spite of the traffic.
  9. B — however. However introduces a contrast, similar to "but".
  10. A — Although. Although + full clause introduces a contrast.

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