GRAMMAR

Concessive clauses and contrastive structures

Grammar

Concessive Clauses

A concessive clause is a clause which begins with "although" or "even though" and which expresses an idea that suggests the opposite of the main part of the sentence. Example Although + he had enough money, he refused to buy a new car. Even though + he had enough money, he refused to buy a new car. He refused to buy a new car although he had enough money. He refused to buy a new car even though he had enough money.

Structure:

Although/Even though introduce concessive clauses

Although/Even though + subject + verb + complement, + subject Although it was raining, he walked to the station. Even though she is very old, she runs fast.

Despite and in spite of do not introduce a concessive clause. They are rather followed by a noun or a verb+ing form.

Despite / in spite of + a noun + complement, + subject Despite + all his money, + he refused to buy a new car. Despite / in spite of + verb-ing + complement, + subject In spite of + having enough money, + he refused to buy a new car. OR He refused to buy a new car despite all his money. He refused to buy a new car in spite of all his money. Despite /in spite of the rain, he walked to the station. Despite /in spite of being tired, he walked to the station.

Remember:

1. Although, even though + subject + verb (Concessive clause)
2. In spite of, despite + noun or verb+ing (Not a concessive clause)

There are structural similarities between:

• "in spite of", "despite" and "although", "even though"
•  "because of", "due to", "owing to", "thanks to" and "because", "since ,"as", "for". (Expressing cause and effect)

Activity

Complete the following sentences, fill in the blank with the correct word.