10 French sentences for Beginners: Contrast, opposition and concession

10 French sentences for Beginners: Contrast, opposition and concession

As a beginner learning French, it’s important to have a good grasp of basic sentence structures and vocabulary, including the ability to express contrast, opposition, and concession.

In this lesson, we will explore ten basic French sentences for beginners that can help you express contrast, opposition, and concession.

Mais j’aime le chocolat noir. (But I like dark chocolate.)

Use this sentence to express a contrast or contradiction in opinion or preference.

Je n’aime pas les légumes, mais je les mange quand même. (I don’t like vegetables, but I still eat them.)

Use this sentence to express opposition or a concession, by acknowledging a dislike for something but still accepting it.

Elle est petite, mais elle est forte. (She is small, but she is strong.)

Use this sentence to express a contrast in physical attributes or abilities.

Je préfère le thé, alors que mon frère préfère le café. (I prefer tea, whereas my brother prefers coffee.)

Use this sentence to express a contrast in preference between two people or things.

Je ne comprends pas, mais j’essaie. (I don’t understand, but I’m trying.)

Use this sentence to express a concession, by acknowledging a lack of understanding but still making an effort.

Je suis fatigué, mais je dois travailler. (I’m tired, but I have to work.)

Use this sentence to express opposition or a concession, by acknowledging tiredness but still carrying on with responsibilities.

Elle aime les animaux, même les araignées. (She likes animals, even spiders.)

Use this sentence to express a concession, by acknowledging that someone likes something despite it being generally disliked.

Il pleut aujourd’hui, mais demain il fera beau. (It’s raining today, but tomorrow it will be nice.)

Use this sentence to express a contrast in weather or environmental conditions.

Je n’aime pas les fruits rouges, mais j’adore les fruits tropicaux. (I don’t like red fruits, but I love tropical fruits.)

Use this sentence to express a contrast in food preference between different types of fruits.

Bien qu’il soit tard, je vais regarder un film. (Although it’s late, I’m going to watch a movie.)

Use this sentence to express a concession, by acknowledging lateness but still doing something enjoyable.


In conclusion, these ten basic French sentences for expressing contrast, opposition, and concession can help you communicate effectively and confidently with others. Whether you need to express a difference in opinion, preference, or physical attributes, or simply acknowledge a challenge or concession, these sentences will help you navigate your conversations in French. With practice, you will be able to use these sentences effortlessly and communicate effectively in a French-speaking environment.

Leave a Comment