A 'concession' is
a contrast between a predicted
action and a circumstance which should logically prevent the action, so the action is
opposed to the expected logic.
A concessive clause is a clause which expresses an idea that suggests the opposite of the main part of the sentence.
Yet:
Yet is
used in formal contexts. We do not start a statement with yet.
These exclusive villas are only a five-minute walk from the resort, yet they are a haven of peace and tranquillity.
However/whatever/wherever, etc.:
They express the idea of ‘no matter what/who/where’,
etc.
Whatever: no matter what
Whoever: no matter who
Whatever I say, she says the opposite.
Whatever caused the accident, it was not a broken bottle.
Whatever he says, I'm going away
Whoever was responsible, it was not the poor pedestrian.
However he tries, he will never...
Whenever it happened, it was certainly not yesterday.
Wherever you met her, it was not in my house.
Even so: despite that
Even so is a prepositional phrase that can be used in a similar
fashion to introduce a fact that is surprising in the context of what has been
said before. It connects ideas between clauses or sentences:
I know
her English isn't very good, but even so I can understand her.
It rained, but even so we enjoyed the day.
The evidence was only circumstantial. Even so, he was convicted and
spent ten years in prison for a crime that he perhaps did not commit.
There are a lot of spelling mistakes; even so, it's quite a good
essay.
There are a lot of spelling mistakes. It's quite a good essay, even so.
| Concession is sometimes expressed by a subjunctive clause without a conjunction to introduce it. |
| 1. Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. |
| 2. I will help you, cost what it may! |
Sources:
https://www.tolearnenglish.com/exercises/exercise-english-2/exercise-english-107625.php
http://englishadvanced2.blogspot.com/2013/12/speakout-advanced-p-72-concession.html
How to write a C1 essay
1.- Before
you begin
When you turn over the paper and begin Writing Part 1, take
some time to read the task instructions. Identify all parts of the question,
underlining which parts are obligatory and noting which parts are optional.
Let’s take a look at an example question!
Remember, you don’t have to use the opinions expressed in
the box, but they may help you to get the ball rolling.
Also, you only have to talk about two of the options given, not all three.
2.- Make a plan
Take ten minutes to lay out your
ideas. Make a pros and cons list for each of the three options and then decide
which two you feel most confident with. Here’s some things you
might come up with, can you think of any more?
3.- Structure
your essay
The essence of a good essay is a clear structure.
Introduction
Here you want to introduce the topic in your own words.
Your first line should also grab the reader’s attention, then you should paraphrase the
question. Finally, try using a statistic or a rhetorical question. This will
make them want to read on, right?
Paragraph 1
Discuss the first option you’ve chosen. Include a good
topic sentence and remember to give reasons for your answer. Describe some of
the advantages, and even some of the disadvantages too. This will give a
well-balanced argument.
Paragraph 2
Here’s where you introduce the second option. Again, try to
present both sides of the argument and give reasons for your ideas. Gradually
work towards the conclusion.
Conclusion
State your final opinion. This should be a summary of the
rest of the essay and point clearly to which option you think is the most
important. Do not introduce any new arguments at this stage. The conclusion is
where you tie-up any loose ends.
4.- Useful
expressions
To make your essay flow it’s best
to use some key phrases. These will link all your ideas together, and help it
sound semi-formal. Take a look at the expressions below.
Why not use some in your next essay?
Introduction:
It is often said that…
It is normally thought that...
It is commonly believed that..
Many people feel that…
We live in an age when..
More and more…
Introducing & Addition:
Firstly, secondly, thirdly…
In addition…
What is more…
Examples:
For example…
For instance…
As a case in point…
Contrasting:
In contrast…
On the one hand… On the other hand…
Alternatively…
However…
Conclusion:
All things considered…
As far as I am concerned…
In light of the above…
In conclusion…
5.- Some final tips
Avoid contractions (I’m, they’re, we’re) as this is a
formal writing.
Use academic words or formal language
Use the impersonal style when it is possible.
Practise under timed conditions.
Use model answers to practise fixed expressions.
Sources:
https://oxfordhousebcn.com/en/how-to-write-a-c1-advanced-essay/
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