Expressing differences

In order to express a contrast, a difference, a great number of linking words can

be used:

1. Unlike:
• Unlike my brother, I have never driven my dad’s precious car!
• He never interrupts people when they speak unlike his opponent.

Unlike+ noun phrase

2. Whereas,while:
• U.S.A is a developed country, whereas Algeria is not.
• Whereas Sarah prefers sweet desserts, John enjoys savory
dishes.

Whereas or while + clause

We put comma before whereas or while when it is put in the middle.

3. Contrary to, in contrast to:

• He thought he would fail the exam, contrary to what his friends
believed.
• Contrary to popular opinion, he was elected easily.

Contrary to +noun.ph

4. Instead of:
• I am sorry, he watched TV instead of doing his homework.
• Please, I’d like to be served meat instead of fish.
• Instead of doing his homework, he went to play.

Instead of + n.ph or gerund or possessive adjective.

5. But:
• U.S.A is a developed country, but Algeria is not.

But+ clause

6. However:
 • She is passionate about her job; however, her salary is quite low.

However + clause

7. Different from:
• Algeria is different from U.S.A. (noun)
• Different from her usual routine, she decided to try something
new. (phrase)
• Different from what we expected, the event was a great
success. (clause)

8. On the contrary:
• He didn't find the movie boring; on the contrary, he found it
quite engaging.