C1 ADVANCED · GRAMMAR · PART 2
Linkers
Although, despite, whereas, nevertheless, whether, unless, even if, rather than, so as to and once.
Finn says
Linkers are some of the most frequent answers in C1 Part 2. The secret is to look at the grammar around the gap and at the logical link between the two ideas.
Contrast
although / even though / though
+ subject + verb
Although it was late, we carried on.
despite / in spite of
+ noun or -ing
Despite the cost, the project went ahead.
whereas / while
compare two different facts
Some saved money, whereas others spent it.
however / nevertheless
at the start of a new sentence
It was expensive. Nevertheless, we bought it.
Condition and alternatives
unless / provided / as long as
conditions
We'll go unless it rains.
whether (or not)
two possibilities
I can't decide whether to accept.
even if
a condition that changes nothing
I'll finish it even if it takes all night.
rather than / instead of
a preference
She chose to walk rather than wait.
Reason, purpose and time
as / since / because
reason
As it was raining, we stayed in.
so as to / in order to / so that
purpose
We left early so as to avoid the traffic.
once / as soon as / until
time
Once you have finished, you can go.
How it comes up in Part 2
In Part 2 you write one word in each gap. No word is given, so you need to know the grammar.
Despite the fact that it was raining, the match went ahead.
Despite + the fact that + clause.
Some people love the city, whereas others find it too noisy.
Whereas compares two different facts.
I'm not sure whether or not I'll be able to come.
Whether or not.
Common mistakes
- ✗ Despite of the rain, we went out.✓ Despite the rain / In spite of the rain, we went out.No 'of' after despite.
- ✗ However it was cold, we swam.✓ Although it was cold, we swam.However links sentences; although links clauses.
- ✗ Unless you don't study, you will fail.✓ Unless you study, you will fail.Unless already means 'if not'.
Finn's exam tip
First decide the logical link (contrast, condition, reason or time). Then check the grammar after the gap: a clause, a noun or -ing, or a new sentence.
Quick check
Write one word in each gap.
🇪🇸 Guía en español: Conectores en inglés para el B2 y el C1: lista con ejemplos →
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