B2conjunction formal 5K

Whereas

UK /["/ˌweərˈæz/"]/ US /["/ˌwerˈæz/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used to compare or contrast two facts

Listen to definition

In simple words: used to show a contrast between two things

Examples

• Some of the studies show positive results, whereas others do not.
• We thought she was arrogant, whereas in fact she was just very shy.

Usage notes

Often used in academic or formal writing to compare two contrasting ideas or situations. It's less common in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

whereas + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'where as' - like comparing 'where' two places are.

Collocations

• whereas some
• whereas others
• whereas in contrast

Synonyms

• while
• although
• but
• on the other hand

Antonyms

• similarly
• likewise

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'whereas' with 'while' in informal contexts.
• Using 'whereas' without a complete clause following it.
• Overusing 'whereas' instead of simpler conjunctions in casual writing.