CONTRASTIVE CONJUNCTION

Arranged by:
Bintang Priabudi
Calista Ranti Zahra
Kemal Hadziq Muhammad Saragih
M. Aris Fadil

PLUS SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL OF RIAU PROVINCE

EDUCATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF RIAU PROVINCE

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 Table of Contents
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 FORE WORD

This paper explores the intricate aspects of contrastive conjunction, aiming to provide
valuable insights and foster a deeper understanding of the subject. Through extensive
research and analysis, this study contributes to the academic and practical knowledge of
contrastive conjunction. The importance of this subject lies in its broad applicability and
relevance to both academic and practical contexts.

The journey of producing this paper has been both challenging and rewarding. I would like to
express my deepest gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable support and
guidance:

1. Mr. Edi Sutono, M Pd, Principal: For their unwavering support and encouragement
throughout this project. Their leadership and dedication have provided a nurturing
environment that fosters academic growth and excellence.
2. Maam Tengku Ema Desti, Subject Teacher: For their in-depth knowledge and helpful
discussions that have greatly enriched this research. Their passion for the subject
matter has been a constant source of inspiration.
3. Family and Friends: For their constant encouragement, understanding, and moral
support. Their belief in my abilities has been a driving force behind the completion of
this paper.

I am also deeply thankful to the authors whose works have laid the foundation for this study.
Their contributions to the field have been instrumental in advancing our collective knowledge
and understanding. Their pioneering research has provided the essential groundwork upon
which this study is built.

It is my hope that this paper will serve as a useful resource for students, educators, and
researchers, and inspiring further exploration. The insights gained from this study are
intended to contribute to ongoing discussions and future research endeavors within this field.

Pekanbaru, 22 Juli 2024

Author

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 CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

A. Issue Background
English grammar, with its myriad rules and structures, forms the foundation of
effective communication in the language. Grammar encompasses a wide range of
components, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions,
and more. These elements work together to create sentences that are clear, precise,
and meaningful. Understanding and mastering English grammar is essential for both
native speakers and learners of the language, as it facilitates accurate expression and
comprehension in both written and spoken forms.
Among the many facets of English grammar, one of the key elements is the
use of conjunctions. Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses
together. They are crucial for constructing complex sentences and for conveying
relationships between different parts of a sentence. The ability to use conjunctions
correctly enhances the coherence and fluidity of both writing and speech. These small
yet powerful words can indicate relationships of addition, contrast, cause, and
condition, thus enriching the language and enhancing communication. The ability to
effectively use conjunctions is fundamental for any proficient speaker or writer of
English.
Conjunctions can be broadly classified into three main categories:
coordinating, subordinating, and correlative. Coordinating conjunctions, such as
"and," "but," and "or," connect elements of equal syntactic importance. Subordinating
conjunctions, including "because," "although," and "since," link dependent clauses to
independent ones, thereby establishing a relationship of dependence between them.
Correlative conjunctions, such as "either...or" and "neither...nor," work in pairs to join
various sentence elements that are grammatically equivalent.
While all types of conjunctions are integral to language construction, this
paper focuses on a specific subset that is particularly significant for creating nuanced
and sophisticated sentences: contrastive conjunctions. Quirk et al. (1985): In their
book "A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language," Quirk and his

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 colleagues explain that contrastive conjunctions are used to connect two clauses that
exhibit contrast or difference. They emphasize that conjunctions such as "but" or
"however" are frequently employed to indicate opposition or difference between two
ideas. These conjunctions are used to juxtapose ideas, highlight differences, and
introduce elements of contradiction within sentences. Examples of contrastive
conjunctions include "but," "however," "although," "yet," "whereas,"
and "nevertheless."

B. Identification Problems
Despite their importance, the correct usage of contrastive conjunctions often poses
a challenge for both learners of English and native speakers. Many struggle to understand
the subtle differences between various contrastive conjunctions and how to use them
effectively in different contexts.
1. Understanding the nuanced differences between conjunctions like "but" and
"however" can be challenging, leading to potential misuse and awkward sentence
structures.
2. Proper placement and punctuation of conjunctions such as "however" and
"although" are crucial for clarity but often difficult to master.
3. Overusing contrastive conjunctions can make writing repetitive and complex,
reducing readability.
4. Choosing the right conjunction based on context and formality is essential but
often problematic.
5. Non-native speakers may struggle with using English conjunctions correctly due
to the influence of their first language's structure.
6. Many educational resources do not provide enough practice for mastering the
subtle uses of contrastive conjunctions.
7. Adapting the use of conjunctions in different contexts (academic writing,
conversational speech, professional communication) requires deep understanding
and flexibility.

In this paper, we will delve into the specifics of contrastive conjunctions, examining
their usage, significance, and impact on both written and spoken English. We will
explore various examples and contexts to illustrate how these conjunctions function
and why they are indispensable tools for achieving clarity and precision in
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communication. By addressing common challenges and providing practical
guidelines, this paper aims to enhance the reader's ability to effectively use contrastive
conjunctions and thereby improve their overall communicative competence.

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 CHAPTER II
CONTENT

A. Purpose of Contrastive Conjunction

Synonymous joiners are necessary tools of writing that help to lay bare disparities
between two ideas, statements or clauses. They give special focus to divergences,
indicate opposition, provide alternatives and show exceptions. For instance, “She is
very knowledgeable; she lacks practical experience” in this case we see the
comparison of knowledge with activity. Also, “I wanted to go for a walk but then it
started raining,” uses “but” for revealing a counter circumstance. Further examples
include ‘on the other hand’ and ‘in contrast,’ which introduce other perspectives or
alternatives e.g., “Living in the city has its conveniences; on the other hand, the
countryside offers peace and quiet.” Additionally, ‘although’ and ‘even though’ can
be used to show exceptions as in “Although it was raining we decided to go hiking”.
Other common contrasting conjunctions include ‘but’, ‘however’, ‘nevertheless’, yet’,
and whereas’. These conjunctions improve coherence by clarifying relationships
between opposite ideas thereby making text more readable and interesting.
Contrastive conjunctions are used to link two ideas or clauses that are in contrast or
opposition to each other. These conjunctions help to show a clear distinction or
contrast between the statements they connect. Some common contrastive conjunctions
include "but," "however," "although," "yet," "while," and "nevertheless."
Functions of Contrastive Conjunctions
 Highlighting Differences: Contrastive conjunctions emphasize the differences
between two ideas, making it clear that they are not in agreement or are opposite
in some way.
- Example: "I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining."

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  Presenting Exceptions: They indicate exceptions to a general statement or rule,
showing that there is an opposing condition or situation.
- Example: "He is usually very punctual, however, he was late today."

 Balancing Arguments: These conjunctions are often used in arguments or

discussions to present contrasting points of view or to balance opposing ideas.
- Example: "The proposal has some benefits, yet it also has significant
drawbacks."

 Indicating Concessions: They can introduce a concession, acknowledging a point

but showing that it does not change the overall argument or situation.
- Example: "Although she was tired, she continued to work."

B. Usage of Contrastive Conjunction

The usage of Contrastive Conjunction is divided into 3 section, such as;
Transitional, subordinating, and prepositional phrase.
1. Transitional Contrastive Conjunction
They are mostly used between two independent sentences or clauses to join
them.
 But
 However
 Yet
 Nevertheless
 Still
In this paper we will talk about 5 of them
 “Yet” and “But”
“Yet” and “But” show a contrast between two (or more) ideas but it tells
the reader nothing about which of the two clauses is more important, the
first or the second.
Formula : Clause + comma + yet/but + clause
e.g. Mr. Aris is rich, but he is unhappy.
She can play the piano very well, yet she can’t read any music at all.
 Nevertheless

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 Nevertheless often placed in beginning of a sentence . But, nevertheless
can be placed in middle and end of the sentence too.
Formula : Clause + nevertheless + clause
e.g. She always brings the dictionary nevertheless the lesson isn’t now.
 Still
Still emphasise that something is surprising, considering what has already
been said. “Still” have the same meaning as “Nevertheless “ but more
informal (usually in magazine).
Formula : Subject + still + compliment
e.g. I still haven’t spoken to the manager, so don’t know what my future
will be.
 However
However can be used to join two simple sentences to make a compound
sentence. However indicates that the relationship between the two
independent clauses is one of contrast or opposition.
Formula : Clause + however + clause
e.g. The engineers claimed that the bridge was safe, however they were
still not prepared to risk crossing.

2. Subordinating Contrastive Conjunction

They are used to join a dependent clause (also called a subordinate clause)
with an independent clause.
 Although
 Though
 Even though
 No matter + question word
In this paper we will talk about 4 of them
 Although / though / even though
Although is a conjunction that means in spite of the fact that or even
though. Although is used to connect phrases, clauses, or sentences.
Conjunction followed by “clause”
Formula : S + verb
e.g. Although it is raining, I keep running.

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 I keep running although it is raining a lot.
 No matter + question word
“No matter” used to emphasize that something is always true, or that
someone must do something. “No matter” followed by “Present Tense”.
Formula : No matter + present tense
e.g. No matter what you think, she’s a nice person
Call me when you return, no matter what time.
3. Prepositional Phrase
Prepositions are a class of words that indicate relationships between nouns,
pronouns and other words in a sentence. Most often they come before a noun.
 Despite
 In spite of
 Notwithstanding
In this paper we will talk about 3 of them
 Despite / In spite of
Despite is preposition used to mean “regardless of”, “notwithstanding”, or
“even though”. It’s used in a subordinate clause to contrast with
information given in the main clause of a sentence. Preposition followed
by “Phrase”
Formula : Followed by a phrase
e.g. Despite the hard rain, the students still come.
The students still come despite the hard rain.
 Notwithstanding
Notwithstanding used to say that something happens or is true even though
there is something that might prevent it form happening or being true.
Preposition followed by “Phrase”
Formula : Followed by a phrase
e.g. Notwithstanding my responsibilities, I have time to have fun and
relax.
My friends and I had great vacation notwithstanding the rain.

Contrastive conjunctions play a vital role in writing and speaking by clearly

showing the relationship between contrasting ideas. They help in structuring

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 arguments, presenting exceptions, and balancing different points of view, making the
communication more effective and nuanced.

CHAPTER III
CLOSING
A. Conclusion
Contrastive conjunctions are essential in writing for highlighting disparities between
ideas, indicating opposition, providing alternatives, and showing exceptions. They
enhance coherence by clarifying relationships between opposing concepts, thus making
text more readable and engaging. Common contrastive conjunctions like "but,"
"however," "although," "yet," "while," and "nevertheless" emphasize differences, present
exceptions, balance arguments, and indicate concessions. They are categorized into
transitional, subordinating, and prepositional phrases, each serving a specific function in
linking independent or dependent clauses. Their proper usage aids in structuring
arguments and presenting nuanced viewpoints, ultimately improving the effectiveness of
communication.

B. Suggestion
- Increase focus on the teaching of contrastive conjunctions in language education,
using diverse exercises and real-life examples to aid understanding.
- Ensure contrastive conjunctions are systematically included in language learning
curricula and assessments to reinforce their usage.
- Provide professional development for educators on effective strategies for
teaching contrastive conjunctions.
- Develop digital tools and applications that offer practice and feedback on the use
of contrastive conjunctions.
- Investigate the use of contrastive conjunctions across various writing genres and
among different proficiency levels to refine teaching methods.
- Encourage language learners to actively incorporate contrastive conjunctions in
their speaking and writing, and seek feedback for improvement.

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 - Create supplementary materials such as worksheets and online resources to
support the learning of contrastive conjunctions.

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