Title: Acknowledging and Addressing Counter

To address a counter-argument, we primarily use "concessive clauses." These are sentences that start with words like embora (although) or ainda que (even though). These words act as a bridge. They connect a fact that seems to contradict your main point to the main point itself. The most important thing to remember is the mood. Most concessive conjunctions in Portuguese require the Subjunctive Mood. Why? Because you are discussing a possibility or a point that you are intentionally de-emphasizing. You are saying, "I see this point exists, but it is not the most important thing." We also use transition phrases like por outro lado (on the other hand) or não obstante (notwithstanding). These help you pivot. You move from the "concession" (the part you agree with slightly) to the "rebuttal" (the part where you prove your point). It is a dance of logic. You step back to move forward.

1. 1Building a strong counter-argument paragraph follows a simple three-step logic.
2. 2The Concession: Start by introducing the opposing view. Use a connector like Embora, Ainda que, or Apesar de. If you use Embora, remember to use the present or imperfect subjunctive. For example: Embora muitos acreditem que... (Although many believe that...).
3. 3The Pivot: This is where you shift the focus. You can use a comma or a transition word like contudo or no entanto. This signals to the reader that the "concession" is over.
4. 4The Rebuttal: Now, you deliver your main argument. This part should be in the indicative mood because it is your "truth." For example: ...os dados mostram o contrário. (...the data show the opposite).
5. 5Think of it as a sandwich. The bread is the counter-argument, and the meat is your brilliant rebuttal. Yes, even native speakers mess this up sometimes by forgetting the subjunctive, so pay close attention!

You should use this pattern whenever you want to sound sophisticated and balanced.

• Academic Essays: This is mandatory. A paper without a counter-argument is just an opinion piece.
• Job Interviews: When asked about a weakness, acknowledge it first. Embora eu não tenha experiência em X, eu domino Y.
• Formal Emails: When disagreeing with a boss or colleague. It softens the blow.
• Debates: It shows you are listening, which actually makes people more likely to listen to you. It is like a psychological Jedi mind trick.

Do not use this for every single sentence. If you acknowledge too many counters, you will look indecisive.

• Urgent Instructions: If a building is on fire, do not say, "Although the exit is that way, some might prefer the stairs." Just say "Go!"
• Simple Facts: You do not need to acknowledge people who think 2+2=5. Some arguments are not worth the breath.
• Casual Chat: Using Não obstante while ordering a pizza will make you sound like a time traveler from the 18th century. Keep it natural.

The biggest trap is the Subjunctive. Many learners say Embora ele é... instead of Embora ele seja.... This is a classic C1-level error. Another mistake is making the counter-argument too strong. If you spend three paragraphs on the opposition and only one on your own point, you have lost the fight. Think of it like a grammar see-saw. You want your point to carry more weight. Also, watch out for Apesar de. It is followed by a noun or an infinitive, not a conjugated verb. People often try to force a subjunctive after it. Apesar de estar chovendo is correct. Apesar de que esteja chovendo is clunky and often wrong.

You might be tempted to just use mas (but). While mas is correct, it is a bit basic for C1.

• Mas vs. Embora: Mas is a direct contrast. Embora is a concession. Estudou, mas não passou (He studied, but didn't pass). Embora tenha estudado, não passou (Although he studied, he didn't pass). The second one sounds more analytical.
• No entanto vs. Contudo: These are very similar. No entanto is slightly more common in modern academic writing. Contudo is a bit more formal and "heavy."
• Apesar de vs. Embora: Use Apesar de for shorter, punchier concessions with nouns. Use Embora for more complex ideas involving actions.