whereas
gb/wɛɹˈæz/ us/wɛɹˈæz/
B1
English
~ 1600
Senses
0 senses
conjunction
formal
B1
relation
1
Used to contrast two facts
Used to show a difference between two things or facts.
Usage pattern:
[clause] whereas [clause]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'whereas' with 'because'. 'Whereas' shows contrast, not cause.
Synonyms
while (Less formal; more common in everyday speech when showing contrast.)
|
although (Can introduce contrast, but often emphasizes concession rather than simple difference.)
Antonyms
because (Introduces a reason instead of a contrast.)
Collocations
whereas in fact
|whereas others
|whereas before
Themes
writing
|law
|logic
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- She enjoys outdoor activities, whereas he prefers staying indoors.
- Whereas the old policy was strict, the new one is more flexible.
- The south of the country is hot and dry, whereas the north is cool and wet.
Learner examples
- I like coffee, whereas my friend likes tea.
- He is tall, whereas his brother is short.
- The first movie was exciting, whereas the second was boring.
conjunction
formal
C1
relation
2
Intro to statement in formal docs
In legal or formal writing, used to give facts before the main point.
Usage pattern:
Whereas [clause], [main clause]
Common mistake:
Learners may overuse this in casual speech; it is mainly for formal writing.
Synonyms
given that (Can introduce background facts but is less formal and not typical in legal drafting.)
Collocations
whereas the parties agree
|whereas it is deemed
Themes
law
|government
|communication
Examples
- Whereas the tenant has paid the rent on time, the landlord agrees to renew the lease.
- Whereas the committee has reviewed the proposal, it now recommends approval.
- Whereas it is necessary to protect public health, new regulations are hereby enacted.
Learner examples
- Whereas John worked for the company for ten years, he will get a bonus.
- Whereas the law requires it, the company must provide safety equipment.
- Whereas the school has more funds, it will buy new computers.
Grammar
Expressions
whereas clause
1/wɛɹˈæz klˈɔz/
fixed phrase
formal
'Whereas' section in legal docs
A part of a legal or formal document that starts with 'whereas' and gives background information.
Examples
- The contract begins with a whereas clause outlining the agreement's background.
- Each whereas clause explains a fact before the main terms are listed.