Linking Words and Phrases to Express Difference

Linking Words and Phrases to Express Difference (B2–C1 Guide)

When writing essays, articles, or reports in English, it’s not enough to simply present ideas — you also need to show how they differ. This is where linking words and phrases to express difference and contrast become essential. These connectors help you compare opposing ideas, highlight unexpected contrasts, structure arguments clearly, and make your writing sound more natural and sophisticated.

In this lesson, we will look at the most useful linking words and phrases for expressing difference, with clear explanations and practical examples you can use in context.

In contrast / In contrast with / On the contrary

In contrast

Used to highlight a clear difference between two people, things, or situations.

• In contrast, his brother is hardworking and ambitious.
• City life is fast-paced. In contrast, life in the countryside is much quieter.

In contrast with

Often followed by a noun phrase.

• In contrast with his brother, Michael is very lazy.
• The second proposal, in contrast with the first, was poorly planned.

On the contrary

Used to state that the opposite of a previous idea is true (not just different).

• There was no selfishness in Mark. On the contrary, he was generous and kind.

However

However is an adverb commonly used to introduce a contrast between two sentences. It is slightly formal and very common in essays and reports.

• The meal was quite simple. However, it took hours to prepare.
• The garden looked beautiful; however, it needed watering.

Tip: However usually comes after a full stop or a semicolon.

Although / Though

Although

A conjunction meaning despite the fact that. It introduces a surprising contrast.

• Although it was sunny, it was extremely cold.
• She insisted on walking home, although she knew it was dangerous.

Though

More informal. It can also appear at the end of a sentence.

• I like him. He can be annoying, though.

Yet

Yet is similar in meaning to however or nevertheless, but slightly more literary.

• He was past his prime, yet he continued to work tirelessly.
• Ben wasn’t the best driver, yet he remained patient and determined.

Still

Still emphasises that something remains true despite a contrasting fact.

• Jane left school years ago; still, she continued to learn.
• He could be rude at times; still, I was fond of him.

Nevertheless

Nevertheless is formal and often used in academic writing to show contrast.

• There was no news from her; nevertheless, he remained hopeful.
• The job was demanding; nevertheless, she enjoyed it.

Unlike

Unlike is used to show a direct difference between two nouns.

• Simon was confident, unlike his shy brother.
• Unlike deciduous trees, evergreen trees stay green all year.

At the same time

Used to introduce a contrasting characteristic that exists simultaneously.

• She was 80 and, at the same time, remarkably fit.
• He acted indifferent, but at the same time felt deeply hurt.

While / Whereas

Both are conjunctions used to contrast two clauses.

• Some colleagues admired him, while others found him distant.
• Children thought Benjamin was slow, whereas he was actually partially deaf.

Note: Whereas is slightly more formal than while.

On the one hand … on the other hand …

This two-part structure is used to present two opposing viewpoints.

• On the one hand, Millie wanted stability; on the other hand, she longed for adventure.
• On the one hand, the company encourages innovation; on the other hand, it values tradition.

Final tip for learners

In Cambridge essays, avoid repeating the same word over and over again. Using a range of contrast linkers shows organisation, range, and control — all key assessment criteria.

Practice idea: Rewrite a paragraph from one of your essays and replace but with at least three different linking expressions from this list.

Download the exercise worksheet with exercises for linking words and phrases to express difference in PDF here