IELTS preparation made easier
Members Academy
Log in
In this lesson you’ll learn how to use ‘concession’ with linkers like ‘although’ and ‘though’.
There is a lot of confusion surrounding how to use ‘although’ and ‘though’ in a sentence.
Many social media posts say that these words can easily be replaced with other linking words like ‘but’ or ‘despite’ but this is not true.
Look at the sentences below:
These are examples of concession – sentences which begin with ‘although’ or ‘even though’ followed by an idea which suggests the opposite of what you expect from the main part of the sentence.
Can you think of an example about yourself?
e.g. Although I’m not a digital native, I’m quite good at using computers.
Although + [subject-verb-object], I [subject+verb+object].
Write your example in the comments.
You can use ‘although’ to show concession and make complex but natural sentences in your IELTS Speaking Test e.g.
Part 1/2 Questions about yourself
Part 3: Opinions
Look at how Yogita shows concession in the Task 2 Conclusion below (IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: whose responsibility is it to transport children to school?):
In conclusion, although there may be additional costs involved in providing a school bus service, I think that this option has a number of benefits for both parents and children.
You can show concession in Task 2:
Or
Or
It is an advanced and sophisticated way to sum up an essay and to show the examiner that you have considered both sides of the argument (even if you disagree with one of them) and that you are aware of the issues.
Many ‘contrast’ words can be used instead of ‘although’, but they all have different grammar patterns. For example
Look at the examples below:
Academic Task 1
General Training Letter of Complaint
Watch the video to see how we practised using concession to write CONCLUSIONS.
You can follow the same pattern to write your own conclusion to any Task 2 question:
To conclude, although (show the other point of view first), I believe (show your point of view + reason).
What do you think is wrong in these sentences?
Correct version:
Although/Though there may be additional costs involved, I think that this option has a number of benefits.
Do you need motivation, high-quality materials, a roadmap, feedback, guidance and an IELTS specialist teacher?
Get instant access to all courses, challenges, boot camps, live classes, interactive and engaging classes, 1:1 support, and a friendly tight-knit community of like-minded learners to get you to Band 7+.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Thanku mam,
I was very upset about my writing skills.now I find you ..I think that I choose a right mentor now.
Hi Aziz. Many thanks for your comment. IELTS Writing is tough! I’m glad you find my materials easy to follow and I hope they will be useful for you. All the best, Fiona.