conjunction

whereas

Used to contrast two facts or situations.

My sister prefers coffee, whereas I usually drink tea.

Etymology

The compound developed from expressions placing matters in relation. Its modern contrastive use sets one fact against another.

More examples

  • This jacket is waterproof, whereas the cheaper one isn't.
  • Whereas mornings are quiet here, evenings are usually busy.
  • The bus takes an hour, whereas the train takes twenty minutes.

Similar words

while
Can express the same contrast but also indicates simultaneous actions.
but
Connects contrasting statements more broadly, including unexpected results.