essay connectors list

200+ Linking Words – Full List, Examples

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Candace Osmond

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Worried that your essay lacks structure and coherence? Perhaps you should use linking words, transition words, or connectors to give it a boost.

Linking words join separate sentences to improve writing flow. You can also find them mid-sentence to connect clauses.

Read on as I show you the definition and types of linking words in English. I also list examples of linking words under every category, and I whipped up a helpful worksheet to test your skills.

What Are Linking Words?

Linking words, transition words, or connecting words in the English language help connect ideas and sentences when speaking or writing.

Linking words and phrases are connectors or transitional phrases. They are also part of formal language, so you’ll find them in academic writing, opinion writing, critical essays, dialectic essays , journalism, and business documents.

Some linking verbs link clauses within a sentence, such as although, in case, and whatever. That means you can find them in the middle of sentences from time to time. Others link two complete sentences, such as besides, as a result, and however.

List of Transition Words

Now that you know the meaning of transition words, let’s look at the usage of transition words in sentences and clauses. Don’t worry, I’ll break it all down for you!

Below, I’ve got a list of linking words and phrases to serve as alternative choices for connecting ideas in writing. Note that there are several types of transition words which we will discuss later.

Agreement/Addition/Similarity

Linking words may help the reader understand additional comments or ideas in a statement. They may also express agreement or similarities. These words are also called additive transition words, commonly found in expository essays and narrative essays.

• In the first place
• As a matter of fact
• In like manner
• In addition
• Not only, but also
• Coupled with
• In the same way
• In the same manner
• First, second, third
• Not to mention
• In the light of
• By the same token
• Additionally
• Correspondingly
• Furthermore
• Comparatively
• At the same time
• Together with
• Identically

Here are some examples of additive linking words in a sentence.

• The group found that a constructivist approach leads to higher test scores. Moreover, essay examinations show higher levels of learning.
• The resort has tennis courts. Furthermore, it has an Olympic pool.

Negative Ideas

Some linking words come in pairs to join negative ideas.

• Not, neither
• Neither, nor

Here are sentence examples of linking words showing negative ideas.

• I haven’t seen Lory, neither have I talked to her friend.
• I neither drink nor smoke.

Opposition/Limitation/Contradiction

Whereas some linking words show an extra idea, these transition phrases and words express contrasting ideas in writing.

• Although this may be true
• In contrast
• (and) still
• Notwithstanding
• Different from
• Of course…, but
• On the other hand
• On the contrary
• Be that as it may
• Nonetheless
• Even so/though
• Nevertheless
• In spite of

Here are some sentences with linking words of opposition.

• The short story can be analyzed using a functionalist lens. However, its historical theme is better understood with a critical perspective.
• As much as I want to go, I must take care of my sister.

Some linking words show relationships between ideas by accepting an idea with reservation instead of showing complete opposition. Here are some examples.

• All the same
• Regardless of this
• Up to a point

Here are some sentence examples.

• Many citizens opposed this unfair policy, which the president nevertheless enacted.
• I like him even if we have different views in life.

Cause/Condition/Purpose

You may also use linking words in your writing piece to show conditions and purpose for a logical flow of ideas. Words like reason get the reader ready to understand why. These words are commonly found in hypothesis essays.

• In the event that
• Granted (that)
• Provided that
• On (the) condition (that)
• For the purpose of
• With this intention
• With this in mind
• In the hope that
• Inasmuch as
• To the end that
• For fear that
• In order to
• Seeing/being that
• The researchers used this method so that the results would be valid, reliable, and aligned with the objectives.
• I will not be attending the seminar due to a high fever.

Examples/Support/Emphasis

You can also use transition words in your piece of writing that show examples or support of an idea.

• In other words
• To put it differently
• For one thing
• In particular
• As an illustration
• In this case
• For example
• For instance
• For this reason
• To put it another way
• To demonstrate
• That is to say
• With attention to
• By all means
• To emphasize
• To enumerate
• Particularly
• Significantly
• Specifically
• Surprisingly
• Important to realize
• Another key point
• On the negative side
• First thing to remember
• Must be remembered
• To point out
• Point often overlooked
• She visited several cities, namely Portland, Jacksonville, Charleston, and Hartford.
• Transition words improve writing flow. For instance, we use further to add extra ideas related to the previous statement.

Effect/Consequence/Result

You might also spot transitional devices for essays that show consequences, results, and effects.

• As a result
• In that case
• Under those circumstances
• Accordingly
• Consequently

Consider the examples below.

• We watered the plant for seven days. In effect, it grew three inches taller.
• Because she didn’t study for the test, Anna failed and had to retake it.

Conclusion/Summary/Restatement

These words and phrases show transitions between sentences to show conclusions. You’ll find these words in essay conclusions of different essay types.

• In simple language
• In explanation
• In lay terms
• In a nutshell
• As can be seen
• In simple terms
• Generally speaking
• All things considered
• As shown above
• In the final analysis
• In the long run
• In either case
• Given these points
• As has been noted
• In any event
• On the whole
• By and large
• For the most part
• In conclusion
• To summarize

Note that in lay terms and in explanation are formal alternative choices to “ in a nutshell.”

Here are some examples.

• Matter is a material that occupies space and has mass. In simple language, it is any physical substance.
• I don’t want to climb the corporate ladder. After all, money isn’t everything.

Time/Chronology/Sequence

Linking words’ other role in writing is to show sequence or chronology. Under the time category, these phrases add a meaning of time. You can find these words in an essay introduction when the writer explains how the paper is structured.

• In due time
• From time to time
• At the present time
• Sooner or later
• Up to the present time
• To begin with
• Straightaway
• In the meantime
• In a moment
• Without delay
• All of a sudden
• At this instant
• First, second
• By the time
• Immediately
• Occasionally
• I watched the movie on television. Eventually, I fell asleep.
• First, fill the pan with water. Then, bring it to a boil.

Space/Location/Place

The following transition words are famous adverbial expressions that limit or modify space. Some of these words and phrases are also transition words of time.

• In the middle of
• To the left/right
• In front of
• On this side
• In the distance
• In the foreground
• In the background
• In the center of
• Adjacent to
• Opposite to

Below are sentence examples using transition words of space.

• My house is located behind the building.
• To the left of the supermarket is a flower shop.

Common Mistakes With Transition Words

Transition words help you create a flow of arguments for readers to understand what you’re saying. But misused transition words and phrases will make your writing unclear. Avoid these mistakes to give your readers a better experience.

Starting a Sentence With So, And, and Also

Both so and and are coordinating conjunctions, which means they can start independent clauses that stand on their own. But it’s not recommended to use these words and also as sentence starters in formal writing. For example:

• Incorrect: Also, there are unauthorized charges on my credit card account.
• Correct: Furthermore, there are unauthorized charges on my credit card account.

Combination of Transition Words And/Or

When writing an essay, avoid English transition words and/or because it makes your paper look messy. Instead, consider whether you need both connectors or only one of them. If you need them both, try this alternative.

• Incorrect: boat and/or plane.
• Correct: boat, plane, or both.

Using As Well As as Alternative to And

As well as has a different meaning from the transition word and. And means you’re listing something of equal importance. Meanwhile, as well as is for additional, less essential information. Here’s an example.

• Incorrect: In this paper, I discuss my movie analysis as well as provide recommendations for improvement.
• Correct: In this paper, I discuss my movie analysis and provide recommendations for improvement.

Archaic Words

Your writing may not make any sense to readers if you overuse archaic transition words like therewith .

For example, hereby means as a result. We can replace it with more modern and explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement is connected to the previous statement.

Linking Words Summary

A linking word is a term that connects different ideas in your text, whether they are contrasting, supporting, or adding. They can improve your writing and help it flow better, I promise!

Regardless of the style of writing, every piece of writing contains linking words to show perfect transitions. I hope my guide on the definition and list of transitions helps you use these words and phrases correctly. Memorize each category, and don’t overuse them in essays.

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• Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2023.

Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.

The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.

For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.

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Table of contents

When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words, other interesting articles.

Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.

Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.

Example text with and without transition words

The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.

If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

Don’t overuse transition words

While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.

In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.

The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.

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There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.

Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.

Additive transition words

Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.

Adversative transition words

Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.

Causal transition words

Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.

Sequential transition words

Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.

Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.

Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.

Confused use of therefore

“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

Starting a sentence with also , and , or so

While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.

• Also , a second round of testing was carried out.

To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.

• A second round of testing was also carried out.
• Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.

Transition words creating sentence fragments

Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.

The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.

We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.

And vs. as well as

Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .

In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first. Note that we add a comma before “as well as” but not before “and.”

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
• Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.

Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”

• Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
• Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.

Use of and/or

The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.

First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.

• Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
• Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.

Archaic transition words

Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing

With the use of certain tools, you can make your writing clear. One of these tools is a paraphrasing tool . One thing the tool does is help your sentences make more sense. It has different modes where it checks how your text can be improved. For example, automatically adding transition words where needed.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or writing rules make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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Connectors in English: How to Use Them

Are your essays in English marked poorly despite your grammatically correct sentences?

Have you ever been told that your paragraphs don’t connect to each other even though they talk about the same topic?

This is where English connectors come in—a.k.a., the words I’ve marked in bold above!

Today, I’m going to talk about what connectors in English are, the most common ones you’ll come across and how to practice them.

Once you’re done with this article, I hope you’ll agree that these words and phrases are simply magical!

What Are English Connectors?

English connectors for cause and effect, english connectors for illustration, english connectors for emphasis, english connectors for comparison, english connectors for contrast, english connectors for sequence, english connectors for conclusion, tips for practicing english connectors, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

English connectors are little words and phrases that help you connect sentences, paragraphs and ideas. Used both in spoken and written English, they help make your English sound more logical and structured.

You can think of connectors as like the thread that holds a necklace’s beads (i.e. sentences, paragraphs and ideas) together.

In fact, you probably already use them without even realizing it!

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Note that English connectors are different from English conjunctions . While conjunctions link two or more words or clauses within a sentence, connectors establish that two separate sentences or ideas are related to each other. 

To help you understand further, I’m going to walk you through some of the most common connectors in English and how they’re used. Some are used formally, while others are more casual. Some are even  interchangeable —that is, you can use them in place of similar words.

In everyday conversations , we often need to explain things.

Perhaps you were late for school because your car ran out of gas. Or you want to buy chocolates because you want to surprise your mother on her birthday.

Explaining things will be much easier if you throw in these important English connectors.

Let’s take a look at them!

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Giving illustrations or examples helps us prove our point and convince other people to believe us. These words help people understand what you’re trying to say and can help them see why you believe what you believe.

While discussing an issue or idea, you may want to focus on a particular point or example. To make the listener understand the importance of that specific idea, you can use the following connectors.

Sometimes, we need to draw attention to certain similarities to make a point or explain something. This is especially important in writing!

To make better comparisons, use the following English connectors.

Sometimes, we need to express different or contradicting ideas side-by-side. Doing this helps the listener or reader focus on important differences and makes them aware of the many sides of a topic.

These connectors are useful when you’re giving step-by-step instructions or listing points.

Finally , how do you let your reader know that you’ve reached the end? (See what I did there?)

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There are certain connectors that we usually use during conclusions or when we’ve reached the end of what we wanted to say. When writing or stating conclusions, you usually repeat the most important points.

Here are some quick tips that’ll help you learn English connectors more efficiently.

Make Your Own Sentences

To explain the meanings and uses of different connectors, I’ve provided example sentences for each. However, you’ll remember them much better if you come up with your own examples.

You can start by using connectors in your diary entries, notebooks, essays and the like. Soon, you’ll find yourself using these connectors in everyday speech as well!

Write a Short Story or Essay

To see the huge difference English connectors can make, try writing a paragraph without any connectors and then rewrite it using some of the connectors above. You’ll quickly realize that your sentences will flow better, sound more logical and become easier to understand.

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Learn English with Authentic Content

You probably want to speak English like a native (or at least try to). So why not learn from natives? Try watching a speech in English to get a good idea of how these fit together. Look for the ones with transcripts that you can write notes in, maybe even circling all of the connecting terms as you see them. 

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Do Online Exercises

Finally, to check whether you’ve understood how to use connectors correctly, you can try online exercises from websites that cover English grammar .

For example, the ones on English Daily  and English Grammar are pretty short and can be completed in a few minutes.

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There’s also ToLearnEnglish , which provides a brief list of common connectors before you solve the exercise, making it a great resource for review.

Now that you know the most commonly-used English connectors, you can use them in sentences and paragraphs with great confidence. Try your hand at some of the exercises I’ve suggested for practice.

So what are you waiting for?

Get out there and start incorporating these useful English connectors into your everyday life!

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• Linking Words & Connector Words: Ultimate List With Examples
• Learn English
• James Prior
• No Comments
• Updated February 23, 2024

Linking words and connector words are essential tools for effective communication and writing. They play a crucial role in connecting ideas, enhancing coherence, and guiding the flow of information. Whether you’re writing an essay, giving a presentation, or engaging in a conversation, using appropriate linking words can greatly improve the clarity and effectiveness of your message.

In this ultimate list of linking words, we have compiled a comprehensive collection of linking words along with examples to help you understand their usage and apply them in various contexts. From words that highlight contrast and similarity to those that indicate cause and effect or order of importance, this list covers a wide range of linking words to suit different purposes.

Ready to link your words? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What are linking words?

Linking words, also known as connector words or transition words, are words or phrases that connect ideas or parts of a text, providing coherence and smoothness to the overall flow of information. They serve as bridges between sentences, paragraphs, or even larger sections of a document, helping to establish relationships, indicate contrasts, add information, show cause and effect, provide examples, and more.

Here are some common categories of linking words with examples:

Linking words for addition

Addition: Words that show the addition of information or ideas.

These linking words and phrases can help you add information, reinforce ideas, or provide further examples in your writing or conversation. Use them appropriately to expand on your points and enhance the overall coherence and richness of your communication.

• She is fluent in English, and additionally, she speaks French and Spanish.
• The report highlights the benefits of renewable energy; furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of conservation.
• The new system not only improves efficiency but moreover, it reduces costs.
• In addition to his regular job, he volunteers at a local charity.
• She not only excels in academics but also actively participates in extracurricular activities.
• The team consists of experienced professionals as well as enthusiastic newcomers.
• The company values teamwork; likewise, it fosters individual growth and development.
• Besides working full-time, he manages to pursue his hobbies and spend time with famil
• The website offers free shipping; what’s more, customers can enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• On top of their regular duties, employees are encouraged to take part in professional development opportunities.
• Developing strong interpersonal skills is equally important as acquiring technical knowledge.
• The event attracted a large audience, not to mention the media coverage it received.
• Along with the new software update, customers will also receive enhanced customer support.
• The company achieved its sales targets for the year; what is more, it surpassed them by 20%.
• The team completed the project ahead of schedule; besides that, they received positive feedback from the client.
• The company’s commitment to quality, coupled with its competitive pricing, sets it apart from its competitors.

Linking words for contrast

Contrast: Words that highlight differences or contrasting ideas.

These linking words and phrases can help you express contrasting ideas and show the differences between two or more concepts or situations. Remember to use them appropriately based on the context and your intended meaning.

• She studied hard; however, she didn’t pass the exam.
• John loves traveling; on the other hand, his sister prefers staying at home.
• The weather was terrible; nevertheless, they decided to go for a walk.
• He had a sprained ankle; nonetheless, he played in the soccer match.
• Despite the rain, they went to the beach.
• In spite of the traffic, they arrived on time.
• Although it was late, they continued with their work.
• Even though she was tired, she went to the gym.
• I enjoy reading, while my brother prefers watching movies.
• Sarah loves cooking, whereas her husband prefers eating out.
• Unlike his friends, Mark is not a fan of horror movies.
• She hates winter; conversely, I love it.
• She expected him to be upset; on the contrary, he was happy.
• They planned to go to the cinema, but instead, they stayed home and watched a movie.
• The cat is small and playful, in contrast to the dog, which is big and lazy.
• He enjoys sports; conversely, his sister prefers art.
• On one hand, the book is interesting; on the other hand, it’s quite lengthy.
• They could go by car, or alternatively, they could take the train.
• The movie received mixed reviews; nevertheless, it became a box office hit.
• She didn’t pass the test, but in any case, she learned a lot from studying.

Linking words for similarity

Similarity: Words that highlight similarities or shared ideas.

These linking words and phrases can help you express similarities between two or more ideas, situations, or individuals. Use them appropriately based on the context to highlight shared characteristics or experiences.

• Sarah enjoys reading; likewise, her brother is an avid reader.
• John and Emily both love hiking; similarly, they enjoy spending time in nature.
• Just as Sarah likes swimming, in the same way, her best friend enjoys diving.
• Jack has a passion for photography, similarly to his sister who is also an enthusiast.
• Just like her mother, Jane has a talent for playing the piano.
• The two artists approach their work in a similar vein, both using vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes.
• Mark loves cooking, and by the same token, he also enjoys experimenting with new recipes.
• As the workload increased, the stress levels of the employees correspondingly rose.
• Both Sarah and Emily are equally skilled in playing the guitar.
• The designer creates unique clothing pieces, and in a similar fashion, the jewelry maker crafts one-of-a-kind accessories.
• Just as the sun rises in the morning, the moon appears in the evening.
• The teacher explains complex concepts in a simple and understandable way, in the same manner as her colleague.
• He enjoys hiking and camping, and his friends, likewise, too, share his enthusiasm for outdoor activities.
• Just as a bird builds its nest with care and precision, in the same way, an architect plans and constructs a building.
• The two books explore themes of love and loss, along similar lines, inviting readers to contemplate the human experience.
• As with all great artists, Picasso’s work continues to inspire and influence generations.
• Exercise is essential for physical health, and just as importantly, it is crucial for mental well-being.
• Much like a puzzle, life consists of various pieces that fit together to form a bigger picture.

Linking words for cause and effect

Cause and Effect: Words that demonstrate cause and effect relationships.

These linking words and phrases can help you express the cause-and-effect relationship between events or actions. Use them appropriately based on the context to convey the reason and result of a particular situation or occurrence.

• He failed the exam because he didn’t study.
• They arrived early since they left home on time.
• As a result of heavy rainfall, the streets were flooded.
• The event was canceled due to bad weather conditions.
• The store was closed, therefore, they had to find another place to shop.
• He missed the train, consequently, he arrived late to the meeting.
• Owing to a power outage, the concert was postponed.
• She didn’t have enough sleep, thus, she felt tired throughout the day.
• He couldn’t attend the party, for this reason, he sent his apologies.
• The storm caused damage to the houses, resulting in the need for repairs.
• The baby was hungry, so she started crying.
• Lack of exercise and poor diet often leads to weight gain.
• They missed the train because of heavy traffic.
• The roads were icy, this is why there were many accidents.
• They spent all their money, as a consequence, they couldn’t afford the trip.
• He quit smoking, and since then, he feels healthier.
• The company introduced a new product, and in turn, its sales increased.
• She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.

Linking words for time and sequence

Time and sequence: Words that indicate time or sequence of events or actions.

These linking words and phrases can help you express the chronological order and sequence of events or actions. Use them appropriately to guide your audience through the progression of ideas or to outline the steps in a process or narrative.

• Firstly, let’s discuss the main causes of climate change.
• Secondly, we need to consider the potential solutions to the problem.
• Next, we will move on to the implementation phase of the project.
• We need to complete the research phase first. Then, we can start analyzing the data.
• After that, we can proceed with the construction of the building.
• The company experienced financial difficulties. Subsequently, they had to lay off several employees.
• The team was working on the project. Meanwhile, the marketing department was preparing the promotional materials.
• The two processes are happening simultaneously, ensuring efficient production.
• The report will be ready in a week. In the meantime, please proceed with the other tasks.
• During the meeting, we will discuss the budget and timeline.
• While he was studying, his friends were playing video games.
• Please wait here until your name is called.
• We need to complete the paperwork before the deadline.
• She attended the conference, and afterward, she shared her insights with the team.
• Finally, we reached an agreement after a long negotiation process.
• In the end, they decided to cancel the project due to budget constraints.
• The presentation was engaging, and at the same time, informative.
• Initially, he struggled with the new software, but with practice, he became proficient.
• At first, the project seemed overwhelming, but with proper planning, it became manageable.

Linking words for order of importance

Order of Importance: Words that highlight the hierarchy or ranking of ideas based on their significance.

These linking words and phrases can help you establish the order of importance when presenting ideas or arguments. Use them to emphasize the significance of certain points, highlight key considerations, or guide the reader’s attention to the most critical aspects.

• Most importantly, we need to prioritize the safety of our employees.
• Above all, we must prioritize the needs of our customers.
• The company’s success primarily depends on effective leadership and strategic planning.
• First and foremost, we need to address the urgent issue of inflation.
• The new policy chiefly focuses on reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
• Notably, the project resulted in significant cost savings for the organization.
• Above anything else, maintaining a high standard of quality is our top priority.
• It is essential to note that effective communication is the foundation of strong relationships.
• It is worth mentioning that the company’s ethical practices have earned it a positive reputation.

Linking words for exemplification

Example: Words that provide examples or illustrate a point.

These linking words and phrases can help you introduce examples and provide further clarification or evidence to support your statements. Use them to enhance your explanations and illustrate your points effectively.

Here’s a list of linking words and phrases that are commonly used to illustrate an example, along with examples:

• There are many fruits you can choose from, for example, apples, oranges, and bananas.
• Many countries have implemented environmental policies; for instance, Sweden has significantly reduced its carbon emissions.
• I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and swimming.
• The party was attended by several guests, including friends, family, and colleagues.
• He has many hobbies, like painting, playing the guitar, and photography.
• The company provides various employee benefits, as an illustration, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Let me give you an example to illustrate my point.
• There are several endangered species in the area, namely the African elephant, the Bengal tiger, and the giant panda.
• The city offers various attractions, in particular, museums, parks, and historical landmarks.
• The project requires specific skills, specifically programming and data analysis.
• By way of example, let’s consider the case of a successful startup that disrupted the market.
• To give an example, let’s say you want to improve your fitness; you can try activities like jogging, swimming, or joining a gym.
• The experiment was conducted to demonstrate the effects of temperature on plant growth.
• As a case in point, many countries have implemented renewable energy initiatives to combat pollution.
• I will use a specific scenario to exemplify how the new policy can be implemented effectively.
• The job requires strong communication skills , in essence, the ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively.
• The city has invested in renewable energy projects to reduce its carbon footprint. One example of this is the installation of solar panels on public buildings.
• To be specific, the company offers three main product lines: electronics, appliances, and furniture.
• The data collected serves as proof that the new marketing strategy is effective.
• In a similar manner, many companies have embraced remote work as a response to the pandemic.

Linking words for focusing

These linking words and phrases can help you direct attention or emphasize a specific aspect of your discussion or argument. Use them appropriately to highlight the main points or focus areas, ensuring clarity and precision in your communication.

Here’s a list of linking words and phrases that are commonly used to express focusing or directing attention, along with examples:

• Specifically, we need to address the issue of employee turnover in our department.
• The marketing team has made significant progress, particularly in digital advertising.
• In particular, we need to improve our customer service to enhance customer satisfaction.
• Notably, the company achieved a record-breaking sales figure in the last quarter.
• This task requires attention to detail, especially when dealing with sensitive data.
• Specifically speaking, the new software update addresses the security vulnerabilities.
• Above all, we must prioritize the safety of our employees.
• The company’s success mainly relies on customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
• The primary goal of our project is to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
• Essentially, our focus should be on optimizing operational efficiency.
• Individually, each team member plays a crucial role in achieving our objectives.
• Precisely, we need to adhere to the project timeline to meet the deadline.
• Specifically, with regards to customer feedback, we have received positive reviews.
• The new product line has a sleek design, not to mention its advanced features.
• It is worth noting that the market trends are shifting towards online shopping.
• Above everything else, we need to prioritize the quality of our products.
• In essence, our primary objective is to provide exceptional customer service.
• To be more precise, we should focus on improving our supply chain management.
• In specific terms, the sales team needs to focus on building client relationships.
• More importantly, we need to address the concerns raised by our customers.

Linking words for conclusion

Conclusion: Words that summarize or conclude a text.

These linking words and phrases can help you signal the conclusion of your argument, presentation, or essay. Use them to summarize key points, restate your main argument, or provide a final thought or recommendation.

• In conclusion, it is evident that deforestation poses a significant threat to our planet.
• To sum up, the project was a great success, exceeding all expectations.
• Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands.
• All in all, it was a memorable vacation filled with adventure and relaxation.
• Lastly, I would like to thank everyone for their hard work and dedication.
• In summary, the findings of the study suggest a strong correlation between exercise and mental well-being.
• To conclude, the evidence supports the hypothesis that regular exercise improves cardiovascular health.
• The data collected consistently points to the same conclusion; therefore, we can confidently assert our findings.
• In essence, the research demonstrates that social media has a profound impact on interpersonal relationships.
• The campaign received widespread support, and as a result, donations increased significantly.
• In a nutshell, the project aims to promote sustainability through renewable energy initiatives.
• The experiments consistently yielded similar results; thus, we can draw a definitive conclusion.
• The evidence strongly suggests a link between smoking and lung cancer; hence, it is crucial to raise awareness about the risks.
• In light of these findings, it is necessary to reconsider the current educational policies.
• The company faced financial challenges, and consequently, had to downsize its workforce.
• In conclusion, it can be stated that effective communication is the key to successful teamwork.
• Taking all factors into account, it is clear that globalization has both positive and negative consequences.
• The lack of investment resulted in decreased productivity, as a consequence, the company experienced a decline in profits.
• The study findings reveal a correlation between stress levels and sleep quality; thus, it can be inferred that managing stress positively affects sleep.
• Given these points, it is evident that the project should be prioritized for its long-term benefits.

If you’d like more examples, check out this list of other ways to say in conclusion .

Conclusion: Ready to link your words?

These are just some examples of linking words, and there are numerous other linking words and phrases available for different purposes and contexts. Using them appropriately can greatly enhance the clarity and coherence of your writing or speech. So, if you want to become more fluent in English, it’s time to start thinking about linking words!

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75 linking words for academic writing (+examples)

Linking words play an important role in academic writing: They connect different paragraphs, sections or ideas in a text. Therefore, they considerably improve the readability and argumentation of academic texts such as a thesis, dissertation, essay or journal publication. This list of 75 linking words includes examples of how they can be used in academic writing.

Linking words expressing order and sequence in academic writing

Example: First, I review the existing literature on cross-border collaboration. Second, I explain the methodology …

Example: The event increased public awareness of this issue. Afterwards, politicians debated it more openly.

Example: Before scientists discovered the role of neurons in information processing, they assumed that…

Linking words expressing additions in academic writing

Example: Additionally, the interviewee lamented a lack of attention to his work.

Example: Besides the public outreach component, we wrote a handbook to disseminate the research results in the academic community.

Example: The financial compensation was also appreciated by the study participants.

Linking words expressing cause and effect in academic writing

Example: As the number of studies increases, better conclusions can be drawn.

Example: The literature highlights the importance of age and physical fitness. Consequently, these factors will be investigated further.

Linking words expressing contrasts and comparisons in academic writing

Example: Many scholars have explored this issue. Yet, to date, no inclusive framework exists to explain…

Example: People often stated that they are aware of the rules whereas they behaved as if they did not.

Example: E qually important, however, is the role of personal beliefs in decision-making processes.

If you are looking to elevate your writing and editing skills, I highly recommend enrolling in the course “ Good with Words: Writing and Editing Specialization “, which is a 4 course series offered by the University of Michigan. This comprehensive program is conveniently available as an online course on Coursera, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Plus, upon successful completion, you’ll have the opportunity to earn a valuable certificate to showcase your newfound expertise!

Linking words expressing emphasis in academic writing

Example: Indeed, motivation turned out to be a defining factor of academic success.

Example: More importantly, the findings underscore the importance of conflict resolution.

Linking words expressing illustrations in academic writing

Example: Many interviewees were nervous. For example, when asked to describe the event, some of them started to stutter.

Linking words expressing summaries and conclusions in academic writing

Example: In conclusion, the reviewed literature highlights a clear research gap.

Example: In short, scholars call for more research on climate change mitigation.

Linking words expressing conditionality in academic writing

Example: As long as the conditions do not change, the results should remain stable.

Example: Even if more experiments are conducted, human behaviour remains hard to predict.

Linking words expressing generalisations in academic writing

Linking words expressing concessions in academic writing.

Example: Regardless of their genetic makeup, mice showcased the same symptoms.

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70+ Connective Words To Power Up Your Essays [COMPREHENSIVE LIST]

by Kerri-Anne Edinburgh | Last updated Jul 23, 2024 | First published on Aug 5, 2021 | 1 comment

When you’re writing an essay or assignment, you need to use every trick in the book to maximise your marks. And one of the best tools for radically improving your writing is the power of connective words .

Used correctly, connective words can give your writing new depth and meaning, improve readability (important for your examiner!) and demonstrate the logic of your arguments.

Luckily for you, we’ve got plenty of categories, definitions and connectives examples to help you get started…

Psst – this article uses loads of connectives. See if you can spot them in use: we’ve italicised the best examples!

What are connective words?

Simply put, connectives are words – or phrases – that link parts of your writing together.

You’re probably familiar with the most common connective words: and, as, because, but, if, or, so . In fact, I’ve used a few of them already – did you spot them?

Don’t limit your essay writing to the basics though, because there are hundreds of connectives that can help you to demonstrate different ideas, such as cause and effect , or the chronology of events .

We’re going to explore ten types of connectives below, but first , here’s a quick refresher on the grammar behind connective words:  

Definitions: The grammatical bit

Understanding the grammar behind your writing might not be your thing – but bear with me, because remembering these six definitions will help you know which connective to use when, and where to place them!

(If you’re just looking for examples of connectives, feel free to skip straight past this bit!)

Connectives fall into three grammatical categories: conjunctions, prepositions, and adverbs.

• For example: and, but, for, or, yet .
• Today , I finished my history assignment but forgot to workout .
• Such as: at, in, of, on, under .
• I need to finish the conclusion of my essay before I go to dinner.
• For instance: upwards, quickly, fortunately .
• My deadline is tomorrow. Fortunately , I proofread my thesis chapter already .

Using adverb and preposition connective words adds specific meaning – and thus clarity – to your writing. They are particularly useful for successful essay signposting .

Definitions part 2: Connectives in sentences

When using connectives, it’s also important to remember that not all sentences are created equal in importance . And so , when connecting them into longer sentences, different types of connectives create different results:

• For example: I find French tricky but I love learning Spanish.

On the other hand,

• A subordinate clause relies on the main clause to make sense. Therefore, these connectives give information about the relationship between the clauses by specifying an order or place to events, or a cause and effect link.
• Here’s an example: I need to do my homework if I want to get a good grade .

A useful type of subordinating connective for essay writing is the:

• For instance: Firstly , I carried out the experiment, and secondly , I analysed the results.

And that’s your grammar refresh done!

If you’re struggling with essay-writing grammar, a great tool for checking your writing is Grammarly – we use it at Exam Study Expert because it catches a broad range of mistakes.

The where, what and how of using connectives

So how do you go about using connectives?

In this section, we’re going to discuss the where, what and how …

Where to add connectives:

As we’ve seen , connective words are often found in the middle of a sentence, joining two clauses. But don’t forget you can also use them at the beginning of a sentence to link two consecutive sentences – OR two ideas within your paragraphs (did you see what I did there?).

Some of your connectives will even be linking entire paragraphs and sections – these are often examples of signposting to guide the reader through your section or argument.

What’s more , many connectives are not just single words but phrases. These connectives are particularly useful for essay writing and academic vocabulary. For example: as well as, for an example of this, for instance, in addition to, on the other hand, such as .

What to use connectives for:

When you’re writing an essay or assignment there are plenty of tasks you need to achieve: presenting evidence, making arguments and more.

Happily, connectives can help you achieve all these tasks by clarifying your meaning. You can use connectives for:

• Reinforcing or emphasising a point
• Exemplifying and showing results
• Comparing and discussing points of view
• Constructing a timeline or sequence of events
• Listing points (and signposting them)
• Explaining your argument
• Drawing together conclusions

It’s a long list! So master using connectives and you’ll drastically improve the readability of your writing across all sections of your essay.

How to add in useful connective words:

You’re probably already using basic connectives in your writing.

But if you want to get serious about the benefits to your grades, make sure you’re systematic about how you add them during your essay construction – and (later) proofreading to check they make sense on a large(r) scale!

From experience, I would suggest that the best method for choosing and adding effective connectives is to:

• Sketch out a rough draft of your paragraph or essay section
• Are they separate arguments for the same thing? Or opposite points of view? Do they follow on logically (cause and effect) or chronologically?
• Mark where you want to add signposting connectives to indicate structure
• Check your examples of connective word types and choose options that convey the meaning you need…

And for that purpose, we’ve compiled four lists of connective words for you – including the TOP 70 connectives for effective essay writing! So read on…

The three types of connective words:

So let’s get down to the really useful stuff: examples of connectives you can use in different situations in your essays!

There are three main types of connectives that we’re going to explore in turn:

• Comparative , Causal, and Temporal

Comparative connective words

These helpful words and phrases are perfect both for comparing similarities in data and arguments, and for pointing out their differences and oppositions. Use them to compare, discuss and argue.

When comparing points, you’ll often be adding to your argument, so these connectives are used for “ addition ”. The most common connectives for addition are: and, also, furthermore, moreover .

Here are some examples in practice:

• Leonardo Da Vinci was an artist and inventor, and also an influential Renaissance humanist.
• Exam Study Expert’s psychologist William offers expert one-on-one exam coaching . Furthermore , you can sign up for a free introductory session!
• My empirical data demonstrates that … ; similarly , theoretical models projected …

On the other hand , you might need to demonstrate and contrast your argument with the opposing point of view with a connective for “ opposition ”. The most commonly used are: alternatively, except, however, unless .

These examples all demonstrate opposition:

• Winston Churchill is best known for his wartime leadership of the United Kingdom, yet he was already in his 60’s when he took office.
• Some students find great study motivation from starting the day with their hardest task. In contrast , others find getting the ball rolling with smaller tasks more effective.
• Our first questionnaire was comprised of six questions. However , for our second questionnaire we …

Causal connective words

Causal connectives are effective for discussing cause and effect – relationships that have logical links that you want to point out and prove.

As such , academic writing is often full of causal connectives, and many of them demonstrate a very academic vocabulary (great for bonus points in your assignment!).

Most essays and assignments have a section (or several sections!) where you need to draw together your facts, ideas and arguments and point out the connections. These are the connectives to turn to at those moments!

The most commonly used are: as such, as a result (of), because, consequently, therefore, thus .

Here are some examples:

• The brains of London taxi drivers have a larger than usual area that deals with memory because they are required to memorise and navigate thousands of streets.
• Flashcards are a highly effective learning and memory tool, provided that you use them correctly.
• This study surveyed over 3,000 students. As a result , we were able to …

Temporal connective words

Whether you’re explaining the sequence of events that led to a historical battle, or demonstrating the steps in your experiment, temporal connectives are a highly valuable tool.

They’re all about discussing time and the chronology of events – what happened before, during and after . Therefore , they make for great signposting words too!

These examples explore each of the four sections in our temporal connectives lists:

• The law of gravity was not widely understood until it was mathematically formulated by Sir Isaac Newton in 1687.
• If you’re stressed about your exams, mindful meditation can be a great help. At the same time ,an inspirational quote might give you the boost you need!
• Initially , the experiment was expected to demonstrate … Eventually , we came to the conclusion that …

The TOP 70 connective words for effective essay writing!

To make sure that you’ve got the tools you need to improve your grades, we’ve compiled this epic list of all the best connectives to use in academic writing.

This is just a selection from the hundreds of connective words and phrases available. So there’s no need to make your essay stale by over-using the same one or two!

If there’s nothing else you grab when you’re ticking off Step #4 from the connectives methodology above – make sure you grab this list!

It covers all the stages of essay structuring and writing, from introduction to conclusion . And includes lists of connectives for:

• Signposting and listing
• Comparing and contrasting
• Illustrating your findings
• Demonstrating cause and effect
• Emphasising points
• Qualifying your arguments

We’ve highlighted the best and most commonly used connectives for each section to ensure you’ve got THE best resource to improve the quality of your essay immediately.

To finish off , here are some examples to get your essay-writing inspiration flowing:

• Firstly , it is well-known that retrieval practice is an effective learning method as compared with re-reading study texts and notes.
• I’m feeling tired tonight. Nevertheless , I must finish my homework and I want to take the dog for a walk.
• When it comes to …, however , there are several effective methods to …, in particular , …

Good luck with your essay!

Now you’ve mastered adding effective connective words to your essay you’re ready for the next step. Be sure to check out our guide on proofreading your assignment before you hand it in. Good luck!

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such an informative blog for the aspirants who are preparing for any exams

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Linking Words, Connecting Words: Full List and Useful Examples

Linking words (connecting words) are something we need to know in any style of writing, because it helps the reader to follow the flow of what you are saying. Whether it’s an argument in an essay , or an epic scene in a fantasy novel, your reader needs to be able to follow what you are saying. So, what are linking words, why should you bother learning them, and what does it look like in practice? Well, this guide will answer all of those questions!

Linking Words

What are linking words.

Linking words are words that connect ideas together in a piece of writing . It shows that two things are related in some way, or that the point you are making has supporting information. The difference between linking words and simple paragraph starters that we looked at previously, is that linking words can be found at the start of paragraphs, but also in the middle of sentences to connect two ideas together too.

Why Should I Learn Linking Words/Connecting Words?

The answer to this one is fairly straightforward. If you don’t know a variety of linking words to connect ideas together in a piece of writing, then you’re writing won’t make sense. In the very best case here, your reader will become confused and fail to follow the message you are trying to get across in your writing, because the bits of text that should ordinarily fit together, just won’t without the linking words there to connect them.

So, you know what they are and why you need to know them – but what are some examples of linking words? We couldn’t possibly include them all because there are literally hundreds, but hopefully by highlighting some examples and showing their importance in a sentence, you’ll be able to understand the job they do more clearly and focus on learning some other ones for yourself.

Examples of Linking Words

Linking words to add more information.

These words simply add additional information to your sentence or paragraph to show that two ideas are similar. Here are some examples:

• It started to rain  and  I got soaked – ‘and’ is the linking word that connects the two ideas of the individual being in the rain and getting soaked.
• It can’t be the dog’s fault  nor  the cat’s – ‘nor’ connects the idea that neither the cat or dog was at fault.
• We could go shopping first  then  get a bite to eat – ‘then’ shows that both ideas are connected, it also adds some sequence to the sentence by showing the order of things.

Linking Words to Contrast a Point

Sometimes you need to link two ideas together that are actually opposites in terms of what you are trying to say. Here are some words that will help you do that:

• Annie could have gone for a run  but  she decided she was too tired – ‘but’ connects two ideas that are related, but they oppose one another. She could have gone for a run, but she didn’t.
• It’s my turn to make dinner tonight  although  a takeout might be easier – ‘although’ provides an opposite argument again, so it links the ideas in a contrasting way.
• Carrots seemed to be the bunnies preferred food.  On the other hand ,  lettuce was chosen second most frequently and the difference was marginal – ‘on the other hand’ shows clearly to the reader that a different point of view is coming.

Linking Words to Support a Point

If you’re trying to prove something or say something happened as a result of something else, then you will need words like the following:

• I failed my test  because  I didn’t study – ‘because’ gets the reader ready to learn  why  somebody failed their test.
• I could have done something differently,  in fact  we all could have – ‘in fact’ shows that the two ideas are linked together and support one another.
• Jack had been sad  since  his girlfriend broke up with him – ‘since’ is being used here to explain why Jack was sad, so it links the ideas again.

There are many more examples and reasons for using linking words, but if you do some more research into the different linking words that there are, you’ll be able to see how you might use them to connect two ideas together in some way. Remember, they don’t always need to support one another. Sometimes ideas are connected because they oppose one another too.

Learn more with an ultimate guide to transition words and phrases in the English language. 

Complete List of Linking Words & Connecting Words

Linking words – result.

Function: To provide the result of what has been stated or has occurred

• Accordingly
• As a consequence (of)
• As a result
• Consequently
• For this reason

Connecting Words – Emphasis

Function: To put forward a point or idea more forcefully

• Importantly
• It should be noted
• Particularly / in particular
• Surprisingly
• To emphasize
• Undoubtedly
• Unquestionably
• With attention
• Without a doubt

Linking Words – Addition

Function:  To add to what has been previously stated

• Additionally/an additional
• Apart from this
• As well as that
• Coupled with
• Furthermore
• In addition
• In addition to this
• In the same fashion
• Not only…but also
• Not to mention
• Together with

Linking Words – Reason

Function: To provide reasons for what has been stated or has occurred

• For the purpose of
• Granted that
• In order to
• Provided that
• Seeing that
• With this in mind
• With this intention
• With this purpose

Connecting Words – Illustration

Function: To provide examples

• As an example of
• For example/ For instance
• For one thing
• Illustrated by
• In another case
• In the case of
• In this case
• In this situation
• On this occasion
• Proof of this
• Specifically
• To demonstrate
• To demonstrate/ To clarify
• To simplify

Linking Words – Contrast

Function: To show how things are different

• Alternatively
• As opposed to
• Contrary to
• Despite/in spite of
• Differing from
• In contrast (to)
• In opposition
• Nevertheless
• Nonetheless
• Notwithstanding
• On the other hand

Linking Words – Comparison

Function:  To show how things are similar

• By the same token
• Compare / compare(d) to (with)
• Correspondingly
• In a similar manner
• In like manner
• In the same way
• In the spitting image of
• Just as…so too
• Most important
• Still another

Connecting Words – Order

1. Function:  To indicate the order of what is being said

• First/ firstly
• Second/ secondly
• Third/ thirdly
• At this time
• Subsequently

2. Function:  To mark the end of an ascending order

• Lastly and most importantly
• Last but not least

3. Definition: To mark the beginning of a descending order

• First and foremost…

Connecting Words – Summary

Function: To sum up what has been previously stated

• All things considered
• As demonstrated above
• As shown above
• As you can see
• By and large
• Generally speaking
• Given these points
• In any event
• In conclusion
• In the final analysis
• On the whole
• To conclude
• To summarise

Linking Words – Condition

Function: To provide a condition to what has been stated

• Although this may be true
• In that case
• In the event that
• On the condition that

Connecting Words – Concession

Function: Connecting words and phrases to accept a point or idea with reservation

• All the same
• Although/Even though
• Be that as it may
• Even though
• In spite of
• Regardless of this
• Up to a point

Connecting Words – Generalisation

Function: To make a general statement

• Broadly speaking
• For the most part
• In general/ Generally
• In most cases
• More often than not
• Predominately

Connecting Words – Restatement

Function: To express an alternative to what has been previously stated

• Alternatively stated
• Expressed simply
• In a nutshell
• In other words
• In simple language
• In simple terms
• In summation
• Otherwise stated
• Put differently
• Put in another way
• Said differently
• That is to say
• To put it differently

Connecting Words – Reference

Function: To a relationship between continuing ideas presented in your essay.

• As applied to
• Considering
• In connection to
• Pertaining to
• Some examples of these might be:
• Speaking about/of
• The fact that
• With regards to
• With respect to

Connecting Words – Clarification

Function: To indicate that you will be exploring your ideas in more detail.

• In explanation
• In lay terms
• Simply stated
• To break it down
• To clearly define
• To make plain
• To put it clearly
• To put it in another way

Connecting Words – Space/ Location

Function: To clarify spatial relationships/ provide spatial order and reference.

• At the rear
• Surrounding
• To the left

Linking Words & Connecting Words Chart

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Transition Words (List for Essays, Paragraphs, and Writing)

In grammar , transition words play a very important role. If used correctly, they can link your ideas, make your paragraphs more coherent, and enhance your writing.

But first – what exactly are transition words and how should you use them ?

What exactly are transition words?

Simply put, transition words are words that basically act as the powerful link that holds your sentences together. They are used to show the relationship between two (or more) phrases, sentences, and even paragraphs.

Transition words improve the flow of your writing, and make it more sensible and easier to read . Words like “and,” “additionally,” “because,” “therefore,” etc. are all transition words. Along with transition words, we also have transition phrases like “as well as,” “for example,” “after all,” etc.

Why are transition words used in a sentence?

1. they are link builders.

Using transition words helps you connect your ideas and thoughts clearly. It helps the reader understand how different ideas logically are related and not get confused. In addition, these words also prepare the readers for what they should expect next.

Let’s consider the following example:

• Shannon couldn’t sleep well last night. Therefore , she drank two cups of coffee before starting her day.

Now, using the transition word “therefore” helped you achieve two things here:

• It told the reader the cause-and-effect relationship between two things
• It described how these sentences are connected and are a part of one process.

From the above example, the reader will understand that Shannon requires two cups of coffee because she couldn’t sleep well last night. These are two different sentences, but they are glued together with the transition word. Remove the transition word and both of these sentences will lose coherency.

2. Transition words help you put your thoughts in a logical order

Organized thoughts are essential elements of clear and concise writing. Writers should ensure that all the points mentioned in a sentence have a logical flow and there should not be any abrupt pauses between them.

Transition words help in introducing sequence or order to your writing. Here’s how:

• First , we will go shopping. Then , we will go to a movie.

Here, we have used two transition words (“first” and “then”) at the beginning of two different sentences. They are used to denote a particular order in which two actions are to be performed.

3. Transition words make your work logical and easy to read

High-quality writing is always clear and easy to understand. It has a logical structure and helps the reader move from one thought to another effortlessly. The simpler the writing, the better the readability!

Transition words are the magic connectors that help you write in clear and plain English.

In both the above-mentioned examples, we have used the transition word at the beginning of the sentences. However, these words can also be used in the middle or at the end of a sense or phrase.

Consider the following sentence, for example:

• I love watching the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S because it makes me laugh.

Here, the transition word “because” helps in joining two clauses . It helps the reader understand two things clearly:

• Which TV show does the writer loves watching
• Why do they love watching that particular show

Different categories of transition words

Depending upon their usage and the types of transition a writer wishes to make, transition words are usually divided into multiple categories. There are transition words to show contrast, similarity, examples, and whatnot!

Generally, we have more than one transition word for a particular situation/ transition and so writers can pick the ones according to their liking.

Most of the time, these words mean the same things. However, sometimes they have slightly different meanings. Thus, it is important to understand the meaning and use-case of these words before making your final choice.

Here are some transition word examples according to different categories:

When it comes to displaying contrast “but” is the most common transition word. However, it is not the only word. There are several other transition words that you can use to display contrast in your sentences. Some of the common words include:

• On the contrary
• On the other hand
• Despite this
• Nevertheless

More on in contrast transition words .

The following transition words should be used for showing examples:

• For example
• For instance
• To illustrate
• Specifically

Cause and effect

These transition words are used for denoting the cause-and-effect relationship between two sentences. The common transition words you can use for this are as follows:

• Accordingly

Another common use of transition words is to show the similarity between sentences and phrases. Here are some commonly used transition words for denoting the similarity between two sentences:

• In the same way

For showing different periods, the following transition words should be used:

• Immediately
• Subsequently

These transition words also define sequence or time. Here are some common sequence-based transition words that writers can include in their work:

These transition words are used to connect things based on their location or where they are placed to each other. Here are some of them:

• Adjacent to

As the name suggests, emphasis transition words help you in stressing an important point and accentuate your argument. Here are some common emphasis transition words:

These transition words offer huge help when you are drafting the conclusion of your work . Whether you are working on a school essay, summing up an idea, or working on your blog, conclusion transition words are an integral part of all kinds of writing.

Here are some common conclusion transition words that writers can use to simplify their writing:

• In conclusion
• To sum it up
• On the whole

More on conclusion transition words .

Do transition words actually make a difference?

The main purpose of transition words is to make clunky, confusing, and disjointed sentences smooth , logical, and coherent. These words must be used to improve the flow of sentences and make your paper more engaging.

When trying to write in plain English, using appropriate transition words wherever possible can make a significant positive impact.

Writers must avoid making abrupt pauses or jumping from one sentence to another illogically. Instead, it is recommended to use transition words to establish an organizational flow in your work.

But the question is – do transition words actually work?

Let’s consider the following sentences – with and without the transition word – and see the difference:

• Jess is going back home for three months. He needs two big bags to carry all his belongings.

While there is nothing wrong with these two sentences, they lack a logical flow. Here’s how using a transition word can improve it.

• Jess is going back home for three months therefore he needs two big bags to carry all his belongings.
• Robin decided to stop studying. She failed high school .

Again, while both of these sentences are grammatically correct, they neither sound good nor logical, There’s an abrupt pause between them. Let’s see how they’ll sound after adding a transition word.

• Robin decided to stop studying. Consequently , she failed high school.
• I could go home. I could stay at the office and finish my work.

Now, these two sentences don’t sound coherent at all. There is something off about them, they lack flow, and they don’t make any logical sense, right? However, once we add a simple transition word between them, they will become so much better. Here’s how:

• I could go home, or I could stay at the office and finish my work.

By adding “or” (a contrast transition word), we linked the sentences. No need to rely on two awkward sentences that are better off as one.

How to use transition words correctly

In order to make a positive difference in your writing, the transition words must be used in a grammatically correct way.

When including transition words in their sentences, writers must remember the following important points:

1. The correct placement: When writing an essay, a blog, or an academic paper, the placement of the transition words plays a crucial role. Writers must plan where they want to place the transition words beforehand and then proceed with writing the sentences.

Generally, transition words can be placed –

• At the beginning of the sentences
• At the end of the sentences
• In the middle of a sentence

2. Use a comma : When using a transition word in the middle of the sentence, it is important to always use a comma (,) before it. Doing so will separate the transition word from the rest of the sentence and give more clarity to your writing.

3. Consider the relationship between two sentences: It is another important tip that every writer must use while including transition words in their writing. Two sentences can have different kinds of relationships. They can be in agreement or disagreement with each other, there can be a cause-and-effect relationship, they can be in chronological order, etc.

Thus, it is crucial to have a clear idea about their relationship before deciding on a transition word.

Key takeaways

In English, using transition words can do wonders for your writing. It can make it more appealing, logical, and clear for the readers. Today, we have learned a lot about transition words and how writers should use them in their work.

Here is a quick summary of everything that we have learned in this article:

• Transition words are words that are used when a writer is transitioning from one point to another.
• They are commonly used as “linking words” that join two or more sentences, phrases, and paragraphs.
• Some common and widely used transition words in English include “also,” “or,” “therefore,” and “thus.”
• There are various categories of transition words and writers can use them depending on the relationship between sentences. Common categories of transition words include – cause-and-effect transition, similarity transition, emphasis transition, contrast transition, and more.

The 10 most commonly used transitional words include the following:

• Furthermore
• Consequently

When using transition words, it is important to strike the correct balance. Overusing transition words can make your work hard to read and reduce its quality.

While you can use multiple transition words in a paragraph, it is recommended to use just one transition word in a sentence.

With SEO becoming more and more important, using the right amount of transition words in your content has become all the more important. Following the best SEO practices and including the ideal amount of transition words in blogs and articles can help in increasing their Google ranking.

Ideally, a writer must ensure that at least 30% of their sentences include transition words. This will go a long way in improving the readability of their content and making it more engaging and simple.

There are several ways to write effective transition sentences . Here are some writing tips that can help writers write effective transition sentences:

• Generally, it is advisable to use transition words at the beginning of your sentences. It helps you introduce the paragraph topic and logically connect the new sentence with the previous one.
• As much as possible, it is advisable to avoid using the transition word “this.” It is because it can make your sentences confusing as it is not always clear what or who “this” refers to. Moreover, many people use pronouns like “this” or “that” as filler words.

The five most common types of transitions include the following:

• Comparison – For example, “similarly”, “likewise,” “in the same way,” etc.
• Contrast – For example, “on the contrary,” “or,” “otherwise,” “however,” etc.
• Emphasis – For example, “in fact,” “above all,” etc.
• Sequence – For example, “first,” “next,” “eventually,” etc.
• Consequence – For example, “accordingly,” “as a result,” “consequently,” etc.
• Wikipedia – Transition
• Yoast SEO – Transition words: why and how to use them
• Your Dictionary – How do I include transition words in my essay
• Writer’s Room – Transition words and phrases

Inside this article

Fact checked: Content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. Learn more.

About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

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Essay Connectors in English and Examples

In this useful lesson, we’re going to explore some magic keys that help link your ideas together in English: essay connectors! Think of these connectors as bridges that help your thoughts flow smoothly from one to the next, making your stories and explanations easier to follow.

Whether you’re just starting your English learning journey or looking to polish your skills, these connectors will be your best friends in writing and speaking more clearly. So, get ready to add some sparkle to your English with these handy tools!

What are Connectors in an Essay?

Connectors are words or phrases that join two or more sentences together. They can be used to create smooth, logical sentences. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common connectors in English and give you some examples of how to use them.

They are also called linking words or linking phrases.

Why use Connectors in an Essay?

Connector words and phrases help to create a smooth, logical flow of ideas in your essay. They make your writing easier to read and understand.

List of Essay Connectors in Detail

It is always a good idea to start your essay with a strong sentence. One way to do this is to use a result connector. A result connector shows the outcome or consequence of something. Here are some examples:

• Consequently, we won’t be able to go on the trip.
• As a result, I got a bad grade on my test.

2) Contrast

Contrast connectors show the difference between two things. Here are some examples:

• However, I don’t think that’s a good idea.
• On the other hand, I believe that we should proceed with caution.

Time connectors express when something happens or how long it lasts. Here are some examples:

• Meanwhile, I’ll be waiting for your call.
• Since then, she’s been avoiding me.

4) Condition

Condition connectors are words or phrases that show a condition or requirement. Here are some examples:

Unless you study hard, you’ll never pass the test.

If it starts to rain, we’ll have to go inside.

5) Addition

Addition connectors express addition or increase. Here are some examples:

furthermore, moreover, and in addition.

• In addition, I think we should try a different approach.
• Furthermore, I don’t think this is a good idea at all.

6) Cause and Effect

Cause and effect connectors express the relationship between two things. They show how one thing caused another thing to happen. Here are some examples:

• The sound of the thunder caused her to scream.
• He didn’t study for the test, so he failed.

7) Location

Location connectors express where something takes place. Here are some examples:

• The meeting will be held in the conference room.
• She always sleeps in her bed.

Purpose connectors express the reason why something is done. They show the purpose of an action or event. Here are some examples:

• I’m studying English to improve my language skills.
• He was late for class because he lost his bus ticket.

9) Comparison

Comparison connectors compare two things. They show how they are similar or different. Here are some examples:

• He’s the best basketball player I’ve ever seen.
• She runs faster than any other girl on the track team.

10) Conditionals

Conditional connectors express a hypothetical situation. They show what would happen if something were to happen. Here are some examples:

• If I had more money, I would buy a new car.
• If you studied harder, you would likely get better grades.

As you can see, there are many different types of essay connectors in English. These connectors help you create clear and logical sentences. By using them correctly, you can make your writing sound more professional and academic.

How do you use Connectors in an Essay?

Using connectors in essays requires a few steps:

• Choose the connector that best suits your needs.
• Connect the two sentences with the connector.
• Make sure the sentences are logically connected.

Here’s an example:

Result: I didn’t get a good grade on my test.

Contrast: However, I got a good score on the practice test.

The result of not studying was that I got a bad grade on my test. However, the contrast is that I did well on the practice test.

Make sure your sentences are properly connected with a connector to create a logical argument. By using connectors, you can make your writing clear and concise.

Now that you know all about essay connectors, try using them in your own writing. Practice makes perfect, so keep practicing until using connectors becomes second nature to you. Soon, you’ll be writing essays that are clear, concise, and well-organized.

• In the same way
• Of contrast
• Despite this
• In comparison
• In contrast
• Even though

Cause & Effect

• Consequently
• As a result of
• As a consequence of
• Contributes of
• Brings about
• Because of this
• For this reason
• Results from
• Is the result of
• Is the consequence of
• Is caused by
• Nevertheless
• Alternatively
• On the contrary
• In spite of
• In addition
• Furthermore
• In addition to
• Additionally
• Not only … but also

illustration

• For example
• For instance
• In other words
• An instance
• As revealed by
• To show that
• In the case of
• As an example
• For one thing
• In my opinion
• As far as I know
• It seems likely
• It seems to me
• In my experience
• I believe that
• As for me, I think
• If I am not mistaken
• What I mean is
• I’d say that
• Personally, I think
• To conclude
• In conclusion
• On the whole
• Summarizing
• Undoubtedly

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Connecting ideas

How to connect ideas at the sentence and paragraph level in academic writing.

What is cohesion?

Cohesion refers to the way we use vocabulary and grammatical structures to make connections between the ideas within a text. It provides flow and sequence to your work and helps make your paragraphs clear for the reader.

Cohesive devices are words and expressions that show relationships between parts of text and ideas, such as cause and effect, time, addition, or comparison and contrast.

Watch the video to learn how to make your ideas link together and your narrative flow.

How can I create cohesion?

Let’s look at types of cohesive devices.

Linking words

Academic writing usually deals with complex ideas. To enable the reader to follow your thoughts, they need to be clearly and smoothly linked. To join ideas and sentences, we use a number of connecting words and phrases. For example:

Additionally, and, also, apart from this, as well (as), in addition, moreover, further, furthermore.

If, in that case, provided that, unless.

Correspondingly, equally, for the same reason, in a similar manner, in comparison, in the same way, on the one hand, similarly.

Alternatively, although, but, conversely, despite, even so, even though, however, in contrast, in spite of, instead, on the contrary, contrary to, nevertheless, nonetheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, rather, still, though, yet, whereas, while.

Again, in fact, interestingly, indeed, it should be noted (that), more important(ly), most importantly, to repeat, (un)fortunately, unquestionably.

A further instance of this is..., an example of this is…, for example, for instance, such as, thus, as follows.

In other words, more simply, namely, simply put, to put it differently / another way, such as, that is.

A / the consequence of, because, due to, for, the effect of …, since, the result of …

Accordingly, as a result/consequence, consequently, for this reason, hence, so, therefore, thus.

Admittedly, although, clearly though, even though, however, indeed, obviously.

As a rule, for the most part, generally, in general, in most cases, normally, on the whole, usually.

First, second, third (etc), next, before, earlier, finally, following, given the above, later, meanwhile, subsequently, then, to conclude, while.

A note about presentation and style

Check a usage guide for exact rules for punctuation. Many introductory phrases have a comma after them. For example, 'therefore,' and 'in addition,'.

Referring backwards

To avoid repeating words and phrases many times, we use cohesive devices to make references to other parts of a text, such as:

• Pronouns: it, he, she, his, her, they, their
• Demonstratives: this, that, these, those
• Articles: a, the
• Adverbs: previously, subsequently

The Australian prime minister has called an early election. The date was selected to coincide with the start of the Olympic Games. This decision was based on the views of his ministerial advisors, who predicted that voter confidence in the government’s policies would be strong at this time . As previously mentioned , decisions on the timing of elections are based on predictions of voter confidence in the existing government.

In the example above:

• The date - refers back to the election date
• This decision - refers to the prime minister calling an early election
• His - refers to the Australian prime minister
• this time - refers to the start of the Olympic Games
• As previously mentioned - refers to all of the earlier information about the selection of election dates

Looking forward

We often use words and phrases to highlight new information for the reader. This helps make a smooth transition from one point to another. Such phrases include: the following, as follows, below, next, subsequently .

The following dates have been proposed for the forthcoming election: September 8, September 15 and 3 October.

The next issue to be discussed is the influence of the media on voter confidence in the government.

Connecting paragraphs

Apart from using the linking words / phrases above, showing the link between paragraphs could involve writing ‘hand-holding’ sentences. These are sentences that link back to the ideas of the previous paragraph. For instance, when outlining the positive and negative issues about a topic you could use the following:

Example (from beginning of previous paragraph):

• One of the main advantages of X is…

When you are ready to move your discussion to the negative issues, you could write one of the following as a paragraph opener:

• Having considered the positive effects of X, negative issues may now need to be taken into account…
• Despite the positive effects outlined above, negative issues also need to be considered...

It is always important to make paragraphs part of a coherent whole text; they must not remain isolated units.

Checking for paragraph links in your own work

When you are editing your next written assignment, ask yourself the following questions as you read through your work (Gillett, Hammond, & Martala, 2009):

• Does the start of my paragraph give my reader enough information about what the paragraph will be about?
• Does my paragraph add to or elaborate on a point made previously and, if so, have I made this explicit with an appropriate linking word / phrase?
• Does my paragraph introduce a completely new point or a different viewpoint to before and, if so, have I explicitly shown this with a suitable connective?
• Have I used similar connectives repeatedly? If yes, try to vary them using the above list.

Strategies to improve cohesion

• Select a piece of writing, preferably from a textbook or journal article, from your area of study.
• Choose a paragraph and underline or highlight all the different forms of cohesion used, such as using linking words, referring backwards, looking forwards or adding synonyms.
• Which forms are the most common?
• Choose a couple that you think are effective and practice using them in your own writing.
• Try to use a variety of ways to show the relationship between your ideas.

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85 Connectors In English To Speak And Write Fluently

When you speak and write, you express ideas.

Many ideas.

And if you want people to understand your ideas, you need to express them clearly.

Not only that. 

You also need to connect them together and show how they are related to each other.

This is why you need connectors in English.

These are words and phrases that are used to link different parts of a sentence or different sentences together to show the relationship between them.

And in this post, you're going to learn over 80 of them!

What Are Connectors In English?

Here’s a simple example.

I ate a sandwich because I was feeling hungry.

2 ideas: 

• eating a sandwich
• feeling hungry

How are they related?

The word “because” (a connector) links them together by showing their relationship.

One idea is the cause (feeling hungry), the other idea is the consequence (eating a sandwich). 

Connectors in English are an essential part of the English language and in this blog post you will explore different types of connectors and look at a lot of examples of how they’re used.

Types Of Connectors In English

There are many different types of connectors in English. 

These include:

• Cause, effect, and result
• Sequence 

Let’s learn more about each type.

Connectors Of Cause, Effect, And Result

Connectors of cause, effect, and result show the relationship between events or actions.

Some examples:

• I couldn't come to the party because I had to work late.
• Since our return flight to Milan was cancelled, we had to spend one more day in Paris.

3. As A Result

• She studied hard and, as a result, she got an A on the test.

4. Consequently

• Many people today do not have time to cook healthy meals for themselves. Consequently, they often end up eating too much junk food.

5. Therefore

• Learning a language requires practice. Therefore, it’s important to find as many practice opportunities as you can.

6. Hence (Formal)

• Language learning can be more effective when you know what you want to achieve. Hence it is important to be clear about your language learning goals.
• She woke up late, so she missed her flight.

8. On Account Of

• All public transport services were cancelled on account of the strike.

9. Owing To (Formal)

• He remained sick owing to poorly prepared food.

10. Thanks To

• I was able to learn English thanks to the help of a great teacher. 

11. As A Consequence

• Many businesses had to shut down during the pandemic. As a consequence, economic growth slowed down.
• Many businesses had to shut down due to the pandemic. 

13. For This Reason

• He hates politicians. For this reason, he has never voted.

14. Thus (Formal)

• We do not own the company. Thus, it would be impossible for us to sell it to investors.

Connectors Of Sequence

Connectors of sequence are words or phrases that help to show the order or sequence of events or actions.

They indicate the temporal relationship between ideas, actions, or events in a sentence or paragraph.

Here are some common ones. They’re all used to indicate something that happened after something else.

15. After That

• First, I'll explain the basic rules of the game. After that, we'll start playing.
• Boil the water. Next, put the pasta in it.
• I went to the supermarket. Then, I came home and had lunch.

18. Afterwards

• We can first relax and have some coffee. Afterwards, we’ll go back to work.

19. Subsequently (Formal)

• The company experienced financial difficulties. Subsequently, they had to make several employees redundant and shut down some of their international headquarters. 

20. Finally/Lastly

I’d like to thank my mother and all my family members. And finally, I would like to thank you all for coming here today.

21. Last But Not Least

You can use this when you’re mentioning the last person or thing of a group in order to say that they’re not less important than the others.

• Last but not least, I’d like to thank my partner for supporting and encouraging me. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without her. 

22. First / Second / Third

• This study has the following aims: first, to investigate how international students in the UK learn English; second, to examine how well they can communicate; and third, to explore how language classes can play a role in helping overseas students adjust to life in England.

Connectors Of Time

Connectors of time are similar to connectors of sequence. They are used to show the order or sequence of events. 

Some examples of connectors of time include:

• After finishing work, he usually goes to the gym and spends two hours there.
• Before going to bed, I always brush my teeth.

25. Meanwhile

You use this to indicate that something is happening while something else is happening.

• John was working on his project. Meanwhile, I was cooking dinner.

This indicates that something is happening while something else is happening.

• As I was walking to the store, I saw my friend driving by.

27. As Soon As

A nice little phrase that you can use to indicate that one action happens immediately after another.

• I'll call you as soon as I arrive at the airport.

28. Once (=As Soon As; When)

• Once I finish my homework, I can go out and play with my friends.

You use “while” to indicate that two actions are happening at the same time.

• I was eating while my dad was watching TV.

“Since” is often used with the present perfect to indicate when the action started.

• I haven't seen her since 2018.
• Please stay here and don’t leave the train station until the train arrives.

You can use “when” to describe a situation that happens at or during a particular time or while something else is happening.

• I saw a deer when I was walking in the park,
• The teacher was not ready when the lesson began. 

33. In The Meantime

• The restaurant is fully booked at the moment so you’ll have to wait. In the meantime, you can take a seat outside and have some drinks if you like.

Connectors Of Addition

These connectors are used to add information or ideas.

Here they are:

• She's studying psychology in the morning and learning English in the evening.

35. As Well As

• She speaks Spanish as well as English.
• I don’t like washing the dishes. I also hate doing the laundry!

37. Moreover (Formal)

• The cost of living is high in this city. Moreover, the traffic is terrible.

38. Furthermore (Formal)

• Research has shown that exposure to language input is essential in second-language acquisition. Furthermore, there is evidence to support the claim that exposure to comprehensible input should be consistent.

39. In Addition (Formal)

• We need to hire more employees. In addition, we need to improve our training program.

40. Besides

• There's nothing to do today. Besides, it's raining so we can’t even go outside. 

41. Additionally

• She's a great teacher. Additionally, she's also a published author.
• I like Italian food and I can make great pizza too.

43. Not Only…But Also…

• Not only can this course help you improve your speaking skills, but it’s also a great way to meet like-minded students.

44. What Is More 

• Children who are bilingual outperform monolingual children on IQ tests. What is more, they appear to have an advantage in acquiring a third language.

45. Likewise (Formal)

• Her second child was likewise very smart.

Connectors Of Contrast 

These are connectors that can be used to show contrast between ideas.

• I want to go to the party, but I have to finish my homework first.

47. However

• She loves ice cream. However, she's lactose intolerant.

48. Although

• Although it was raining, they still went to the beach.
• I like going to the cinema. I prefer watching movies at home though. 

50. Despite The Fact That

• John continued to smoke cigarettes despite the fact that he knew they were bad for his health.

51. In Spite Of (The Fact That)

• In spite of the fact that the restaurant had poor reviews, they decided to give it a try and ended up enjoying the food.

52. Whereas

• She likes sweet foods, whereas he prefers salty ones.

53. On The One Hand / On The Other Hand

• On the one hand, I would love to take that job offer because it pays well. On the other hand, it's in a city far away from where I live, so I’m not sure what to do.
• I love to read, while he loves to watch movies.

55. Even Though

Even though he had studied hard, he still failed the exam.

56. Even If (= Whether Or Not)

• Even if it rains, I'll still go for a run this evening.

57. On The Contrary

• ‘“It must have been great!” 
• “On the contrary, I hated every minute.”

58. In Contrast

• The results of the survey show that, on average, women spend more time cooking for their families. In contrast, men spend more than five minutes a day preparing meals for their kids.
• He's incredibly busy, yet he still finds time to go to the gym. 

60. Nevertheless

• There is little chance that they will win the cup. Nevertheless, it is important that they do their best to succeed.

61. Nonetheless (Formal)

• These are serious issues. Nonetheless, we have a solid plan to solve them.
• The restaurant was dirty. Still, the food they serve is incredibly delicious.

Connectors Of Condition

These are words that are used to connect two clauses (a group of words that includes a subject and a verb, and forms a sentence or part of a sentence) to express a condition that must be fulfilled in order for something else to happen. 

Here are some examples for you:

• If it rains, we'll stay at home.

For more on “if” check out this post on the English conditional tense .

64. Unless (=If Not)

• I won't forgive you unless you apologise

65. Provided That

• I'll lend you my car, provided that you promise to return it by tomorrow.

66. As/So Long As (=Only If)

• You can use my laptop as long as you don't break it.

67. ​Supposing (That)

Used to ask somebody to pretend that something is true or to imagine that something will happen.

• Supposing that you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three things with you, what would they be?

68. On Condition That (=Only If)

• I can drive you to the station on condition that you pay for the petrol.

Connectors Of Example

These are words and phrases used to introduce examples 

69. For Example

• There are many different fruits you can use for smoothies. For example, you can use berries, bananas, and mangoes.

70. Such As

• We sell many different types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
• Some people enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping, while others prefer indoor activities like reading and watching movies.

72. Including

There are many different types of pasta dishes, including spaghetti, fettuccine, and lasagna.

• There are many different types of computer programs, namely word processors, spreadsheets, and graphic design software.

74. For Instance

There are many ways to learn a language. For instance, you can try our StoryLearning method.

Connectors Of Comparison

Connectors of comparison are used to show the similarities and differences between two or more things. 

75. Likewise (Formal) = In A Similar Way

• John is a great cook. Likewise, Mary is skilled in the kitchen.

You use “unlike” to show difference / contrast.

• Unlike his brother, who is always punctual, Tom is always late for appointments.

77. By Comparison

You can use this to show a comparison between two or more things.

• The value of oil went up by 3 percent. By comparison, gold has fallen by 4 percent.

This structure is used to show similarity or equality between two things, actions, or qualities.

• The pizza I had last night was as delicious as the one I had in Italy.

79. Compared To 

• Compared to New York, Milan might seem a small city.

80. Similarly 

• She is an excellent swimmer. Similarly, her sister is a great swimmer too.

Connectors Of Summary

These are used to summarise or conclude a point or idea. Here are some examples:

81. In Conclusion

• In conclusion, the research shows that there is a clear correlation between exercise and mental health.

82. To Sum Up

• To sum up, it's clear that the new policy has had a positive impact on the company's profits.

83. All In All

• The event was well-organized and the speakers were engaging. All in all, it was a great success.

84. To Conclude

• To conclude, the evidence clearly supports the hypothesis that the climate is changing due to human activity.

85. On The Whole

• On the whole, I think the movie was pretty good, but the ending was disappointing.

Connectors In English Everywhere

As you can see, connectors in English are useful words and phrases that will help you show the relationship between ideas.

We have only seen connectors to link ideas within sentences, but they can also be used to connect ideas across paragraphs.

This is why it’s important to read books in English if you’d like to learn and notice connectors in English in context as you’ll be exposing yourself to a lot of written texts–which are rich in connectors!

Following the rules of StoryLearning can help you do this as you’ll be reading short stories in English and you’ll be exposing your brain to thousands of sentences, ideas, and connectors too!

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Top 101+ List of Connectors In English To Aid Flow In Your Writing

Check out our list of connectors in English to aid the direction of your work and strengthen its structure.

Our list of connectors in English will enable you to keep your ideas flowing. Implementing them in your writing helps you achieve coherence and increases your article’s readability.

In this article, we’ll go over different types of connectors and when they’re used. 

While you’re here, check out our article on transition words for essays .

What Are Connectors In English?

Connectors of contrast , connectors of comparison , connectors of cause & effect , connectors of sequence , connectors of emphasis , connectors of example , connectors of explanation , connectors of focus, connectors of addition, connectors of summary/conclusion.

Connectors are words or phrases that connect statements between sentences and paragraphs. While those statements can stand independently, connectors help define their relationship and provide a deeper meaning.

Don’t confuse connectors with conjunctions. While the former is used to connect ideas between complete sentences, the latter is used to connect clauses within a single sentence. You can check out our list of conjunction words for more information and examples.

List of Connectors In English Printable

Conectors of contrast are words or phrases used to indicate a contradiction in speech or writing.

• Alternatively 

We can watch a movie. Alternatively , there’s a cool TV show on the next channel.

 I’m fine. Apart from the black eye, I wasn’t physically hurt in the accident.

Don’t worry. Barring you and me, no one else knows anything.

• Be that as it may

He did a lot of great things during his career. Be that as it may , he’s too old now to be working.

• By comparison

My daughter is great at soccer and baseball. By comparison , my son can’t hit a ball to save his life.

• Conversely 

You can add the fluid to the flour or, conversely , the flour to the fluid.

The apartment is tiny. Even so , they made it highly functional with minimal furniture.

• In contrast

May was cool and rainy. In contrast , June was dry and warm.

• Nevertheless

He was tired. Nevertheless , he accepted her invitation to the movies.

• Notwithstanding 

This small altercation notwithstanding , they both had a marvelous time at the party.

• On the contrary

You think she likes you. On the contrary , she finds you quite annoying.

He was 98 and in bad health, so it was expected. That said , it’s never easy to see someone you love die.

I like this dress more. Then again , it costs double the price of the one I first tried.

The apartment is very nice. Though , it’s quite small.

Connectors of comparison are phrases or words used to express similarities between ideas.

I’m looking forward to meeting your fiancé. Also , I’d like to meet his parents at the wedding.

John is great at math. Comparably , he’s also good at other school subjects.

• Correspondingly

She’s good at graphic design. Correspondingly , her photography work is just as good.

• In a similar vein

Many people go to the gym for muscle definition. In a similar vein, yoga also does that to your body.

• In the same way

Vitamin intake is essential for your well-being. In the same way , physical exercise is just as important.

He always had trouble meeting new people. Like his brother, he’s extremely introverted.

You can’t make calls during a flight. Similarly , you should turn off your phone while inside an airplane.

These connectors are used to express a clear cause-and-effect relationship between two ideas.

Monstera is a tropical plant. Because of that, it won’t grow as tall as it does in its natural habitat.

• Consequently

She missed a couple of classes last week. Consequently , she wasn’t prepared for the upcoming exam.

We can’t go on vacation this summer. Due to our limited budget, we can’t afford that right now.

• For this reason

In the last few months, there’s been a noticeable rise in the number of accidents. For this reason , the government has decided to lower the speed limit in the city.

The engine was overheated. Hence , the vehicle broke down.

Most bugs aren’t able to survive cold temperatures. That’s why you don’t see them during winter.

Most of their stuff was destroyed in the fire. Thus , he has very few photos from his younger days.

Sequence connectors are used to link ideas from one sentence to the next and create coherence. In other words, they show the order or sequence of ideas. 

Let’s go out for dinner. Afterwards , we can go to the movies.

She has been studying every night for the last few months. At last , she passed the final exam.

• First of all

This is a tough problem to solve. First of all , we must identify the key issues.

• Firstly/secondly

Firstly , you need to combine all the ingredients into a bowl. Secondly , you need to mix them until you get a smooth batter.

• In the first place/In the second place

In the first place , I don’t feel like going. In the second place , the weather is too awful to go out of the house.

I would like to thank the producer, director, scriptwriter, and whole crew who helped me achieve this award. Lastly , I would like to thank my parents for supporting my dream.

She told them the problem was solved. Later , they discovered that things were far from resolved.

We have everything we need from this shop. Next , let’s go to Walmart. 

Back in the day, Jim worked as a researcher at the university. Now , he’s a renowned professor.

The theory that the Earth is round was gradually adopted in the Middle Ages. Previously , people believed it was flat.

It’s almost summer. Soon , the weather will be unbearably hot.

• Subsequently

The collected goods are subsequently stored for return to the supplier.

I picked her up from work at 5:30. Then , we went to a nice restaurant.

She worked at a local newspaper until 2001. Thereafter , she moved abroad and started working for an international magazine.

They went for a walk at the beach. Thereupon , he proposed to her.

• To begin with

The trip was a disaster. To begin with , Angie’s luggage got delayed.

These are the connectors you want to use when you want to emphasize a specific idea.

I like Matt. Above all , he’s always genuine and outspoken.

I don’t think you should do that. Actually , that’s a horrible idea.

• As a matter of fact

Spanish is not difficult to learn. As a matter of fact , it’s considered one of the easiest languages.

I only had one or two spelling errors to fix. Basically , the article is well-written.

John wasn’t acting himself around her. Certainly , he’s still mad about that disagreement.

I’ll leave you to it. Clearly , you have too many things on your mind.

• Essentially

There’s a logic behind these serial numbers. Essentially , the higher the number, the newer the model is.

They told us masks would protect us from the virus. Evidently , they’re trying to frighten us into obedience.

The pandemic harmed the country’s economy. Indeed , foreign investments are at an all-time low.

He’s not that funny. In fact , I find his jokes annoying and offensive.

• More specifically

Jennifer is interested in learning new languages. More specifically , she would like to master Spanish and Portuguese.

• Most importantly

We need to do some renovations around the house before moving in. Most importantly , we need to replace old pipes.

• Most notably

His party is focused on fixing urgent issues in society. Most notably , a high level of unemployment.

That shark is enormous. Obviously , we’re going to need a bigger boat.

The car broke down on our way to the opera. Of course , we were late for the show.

• On top of that

The cake is soft, tasty, and filling. On top of that , it has zero sugar.

• Particularly

Older people are more vulnerable to infections. Particularly , they’re susceptible to flu.

This is a very deep, psychological book. Primarily , it’s about guilt and regret. 

• Without a doubt

We should hire Jonas. Without a doubt , he’s the best candidate we’ve seen in years.

As the name suggests, these connector words and phrases are used when giving an example. 

• As illustrated by

Budget cuts are a must. As illustrated by the chart, we’ll face debt within a year unless we make changes.

• For example

Many countries have more than one official language. For example , Belgium has three.

• For instance

There are numerous writing tools you can use. For instance , Grammarly can help you with your spelling, tone, punctuation, and style.

• In particular

During high school, Mona showed great enthusiasm for science. In particular , her talent for solving math equations was quite obvious. 

• In that case

You don’t seem happy at your job. In that case , why don’t you quit?

• Specifically

I need to go grocery shopping. Specifically , I need to restock my spices. 

Rye is much better than oats if you’re trying to cut down on calories and fat. That is unless you’re gluten intolerant.

• This can be seen in 

The gap between the rich and the poor has never been bigger. This can be seen in the latest UN report.

Connectors of explanation are typically used to give reasons behind ideas.

• At any rate

The house requires way too much work and investment. At any rate , it’s not worth it.

You should tell her how you feel. At least , you should say what hurt you the most.

• For one thing 

He’s not that nice. For one thing , he talks to everyone with a condescending tone. 

• In other words

The company has decided to let her go. In other words , she’s fired. 

• In that respect

I’m not sure who was the more arrogant of the two. In that respect , she and Jerry seemed suited for each other.

The entire group of people is marginalized by the new law. Namely , pensioners are completely excluded.

• Put differently

There was a lack of communication between the team members. Put differently , no one got along.

• That is to say

We never met. That is to say , we were never formally introduced to one another.

You can use focusing connectors between ideas to express your opinion on the topic.

• As I see it

How could such a petty argument turn into a full-blown fight? As I see it , you guys have serious issues in communication.

• As far as… concerned

I don’t think about divorce. As far as I’m concerned , marriage is for eternity.

My parents already left. As for me, I’ll stay until the end of the event.

• If I’m not mistaken

He said, “If I said you had a beautiful body, would you hold it against me?” If I’m not mistaken , that’s a double entendre.

• In regard to

I have read your report thoroughly. In regard to the last point, we should discuss it further in person.

I just finished my shift. Talking of work, do you have any news regarding your application?

• To be honest

I have placed an order over a month ago. To be honest , I don’t think it will ever arrive.

Addition connectors are used when we want to give more information in the second sentence.

• Additionally

You can vote at your polling place. Additionally , you can vote by mail.

Matt decided to take the job. Along with a high salary, the position offered numerous attractive benefits.

I don’t feel like going out for dinner. Besides , it’s raining.

• In addition

The college offers on-site classes. In addition , you can take online classes in specific subjects. 

• What’s more

Cooking for your pets means you can add variety to their diet. What’s more , you know exactly what they’re eating.

These connectors are words or phrases that summarize a main point or conclude an idea.

There are rocky mountains on the left and the ocean on the right. All in all , it’s a beautiful view.

• All things considered

You only have to pay a $20 one-time fee for the program. All things considered , that’s a good deal for something you’ll be using regularly.

There’s a huge master bedroom on the first floor, while guest rooms are situated above. Altogether , there are four bedrooms at your disposal.

• By and large

She was apprehensive at first but quickly warmed up to the dog. By and large , she’s doing a fine job for a first-time pet owner.

• In any case

I don’t know where I would wear such an extravagant dress. In any case , it’s too expensive for my budget.

• In conclusion

Eleven patients experienced hypertension, while three patients showed vitamin deficiency. In conclusion , the study confirmed the relation between the symptoms.

The pay is great, but the workload is too heavy. On balance , I think I’m better off where I am right now.

• On the whole

I agree with several points, but I see room for improvement in the last one. On the whole , I like the idea.

Profit is low, so there’ll be significant budget cuts this year. Overall , we need to let around 100 people go.

• To summarize

While some people are genuine, there are many scammers online. To summarize , never trust strangers on the internet.

He has many ideas, but most of them are never realized. To sum up , he’s very lazy.

IELTS Writing Linking Words (Connectors) - Master List

The key to a high-scoring essay is not just rich content and strong grammar, but also the seamless flow and clarity with which you present your thoughts. That’s where linking words, or connectors, come into play, weaving your ideas into a well-integrated narrative.

Whether you're arguing a point in your Writing Task 2 essay, or crafting a letter for Task 1, using a wide range of linking words can significantly boost the coherence and cohesion of your text. Our extensive list of connectors is designed for IELTS candidates seeking to enhance their writing skills and achieve a band score that truly reflects their language proficiency.

Unlock the full potential of your writing with our master list of IELTS linking words, thoughtfully categorized and rich with examples

Additionally : Additionally, applicants must submit a cover letter.

Furthermore : I love to travel; furthermore, I enjoy learning about new cultures.

Moreover : She has experience, and moreover, she has the right qualifications.

Also : He can also play the guitar.

As well as : Her favorite sports are tennis as well as swimming.

Not to mention : The hotel was beautiful, not to mention close to the beach.

Along with : She brought a pie along with some fresh fruit.

Besides : I don’t want to go to the party, and besides, I wasn’t even invited.

In addition : The price is fair, and in addition, the service is exceptional.

Plus : The car is very reliable, plus it’s great on gas.

However : He is very funny; however, he can be quite serious at times.

Although : Although it was raining, he walked without an umbrella.

On the other hand : I am excited about the trip; on the other hand, I’m worried about the expense.

Conversely : I'd like to eat out, but conversely, I should be saving money.

Instead : He did not rebuke his child; instead, he gave him a hug.

Nevertheless : It was cold and wet; nevertheless, the game continued.

Despite : Despite the bad weather, we had a good time.

Yet : She is a great team player, yet she works well independently.

On the contrary : I thought she would win; on the contrary, she came in last.

In contrast : She loves math; in contrast, her brother has always found it difficult.

Cause and Effect

Therefore : The study was flawed; therefore, the results were unreliable.

As a result : He scored well on the test, as a result, he got into his desired university.

Consequently : It rained heavily; consequently, the picnic was canceled.

Hence : He was absent on the day of the exam; hence, he failed the course.

Thus : The roads were icy; thus, the school decided to close for the day.

Because of : Because of the train delay, I missed my appointment.

Due to : The match was postponed due to heavy snow.

So : She's allergic to peanuts, so she has to read food labels carefully.

This means that : The road is closed. This means that we’ll have to take a detour.

Leading to : The malfunction led to a delay in production.

Similarly : Just as Rome was not built in a day, similarly, we need time to complete this project.

Likewise : He respects his colleagues and expects to be treated likewise.

Like : Like her mother, she has a keen interest in art.

Just as : Just as the sun rises every morning, we too must rise to our tasks.

Comparable to : His speed is comparable to that of a professional athlete.

Analogous to : Watching the stars, he felt analogous to an explorer.

Similarly to : Similarly to her sister, she has a flair for fashion.

As with : As with all his advice, it was wise and timely.

For instance : For instance, many endangered species are at risk because of habitat loss.

For example : Using renewable energy sources, for example, can significantly reduce pollution.

Such as : There are many activities to enjoy in the winter, such as skiing and skating.

Including : There are several risks including potential loss of investment.

Specifically : Specifically, you must follow these instructions to install the software.

To illustrate : To illustrate my point, let's consider the case of the honeybee.

Namely : This year has two leap months, namely the fourth and the ninth.

Importantly : Importantly, all participants must sign a consent form.

Indeed : The results were, indeed, remarkable.

Especially : She enjoys hiking, especially in the mountains.

Particularly : The instructions were particularly complex.

Notably : Notably, none of the students were late to the seminar.

Significantly : The new policy will significantly affect productivity.

Above all : Above all, keep yourself hydrated while hiking.

Most importantly : Most importantly, never lose sight of your goals.

Of course : Of course, we'll need to consider the costs.

Especially : Bring warm clothes, especially if you feel the cold easily.

Firstly : Firstly, let's go over the previous meeting's minutes.

Secondly : Secondly, we need to address the budget for next year.

Thirdly : Thirdly, staffing requirements must be assessed.

Next : Gather your materials; next, begin the experiment.

Then : Finish your homework; then, you can watch TV.

Afterward : We'll have lunch, and afterward, we can visit the museum.

Subsequently : He was promoted, subsequently taking over the department.

Finally : Finally, after months of preparation, the day of the launch arrived.

Last but not least : Last but not least, we must thank our sponsors.

Ultimately : Ultimately, the decision lies with the committee.

In conclusion : In conclusion, there are several benefits to implementing these changes.

To summarize : To summarize, we reviewed three key points in today's meeting.

In summary : In summary, the strategy proved to be highly effective.

Overall : Overall, the project was a resounding success.

To conclude : To conclude, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone.

Lastly : Lastly, we would like to remind participants to submit their feedback.

In closing : In closing, remember to check your email for updates.

To finalize : To finalize the process, please sign below.

To wrap up : To wrap up, I'll answer any remaining questions.

All things considered : All things considered, it's a favorable proposal.

Currently : Currently, the company is in the process of expanding.

Previously : Previously, we discussed the importance of marketing.

Formerly : The building was formerly used as a warehouse.

Eventually : He studied hard and eventually passed the exam with flying colors.

Subsequently : The snowstorm subsided and, subsequently, flights resumed.

Meanwhile : You start on the report; meanwhile, I'll work on the presentation.

Simultaneously : They worked simultaneously on different parts of the project.

Until : Continue stirring the mixture until it thickens.

Thereafter : Thereafter, the participants formed smaller discussion groups.

Presently : Presently, the research is being reviewed by the committee.

Comparison/Contrast or Clarification

In the same way : In the same way a teacher educates students, a mentor guides a protégé.

Similarly : Similarly, the new model offers increased efficiency.

In the same manner , In the same manner as his predecessor, he adheres to strict schedules.

By the same token : By the same token, reducing expenses will enhance our profitability.

Equally : This decision will affect all departments equally.

Just as : Just as we expected, the turnout was high.

As much as : As much as I enjoy hiking, I haven't had time to go recently.

Clarification

That is to say : We have a stopover, that is to say, you'll have to switch planes.

In other words : It's a symbiotic relationship, in other words, both parties benefit.

To clarify : To clarify, only third-year students can apply for this program.

That is : You will be compensated, that is, we'll pay for your travel expenses.

Put another way : Put another way, the success of the project depends on teamwork.

To put it differently : To put it differently, the painting represents both hope and despair.

To rephrase : To rephrase, are you suggesting we postpone the launch?

If : If it rains, the game will be canceled.

Unless : Unless we act now, the opportunity will be lost.

Provided that : Provided that you complete the work on time, you'll receive full credit.

In the event that : In the event that you're late, please inform us.

As long as : You can borrow my car as long as you fill the tank.

Even if : Even if you disagree, you must abide by the decision.

In case : Always bring a map, in case your phone loses signal.

Supposing : Supposing the client agrees, when can we deliver?

Example or Emphasis

For instance : There are many historical cities to visit in Europe, for instance, Rome and Paris.

To illustrate : To illustrate the issue, consider the impact of deforestation on wildlife.

Namely : The club offers many amenities, namely a pool, a gym, and a sauna.

In particular : He loves fruits, in particular, apples and bananas.

Specifically : The warranty covers everything, specifically parts and labor.

To emphasize : To emphasize, please ensure the data is accurate.

Indeed : This is a very important point to consider, indeed.

In fact : The artist is, in fact, a close friend of mine.

Accordingly : Complete the form accordingly.

Consequently : He missed the deadline, and consequently, his submission was rejected.

Similarly : Similarly, her writing style is brief and to the point.

For example : Religions differ in practice; for example, some pray several times a day, others only on certain occasions.

To demonstrate : To demonstrate his commitment, he worked overtime without extra pay.

Exception/Contrast

Yet : He is young, yet he has achieved a lot.

In spite of : In spite of the rain, the event was well-attended.

Though : Though he wasn't feeling well, he decided to participate in the race.

While : While I understand your concern, I believe this is the best course of action.

Although : Although the road was busy, we made good time.

Because : He’s tired because he worked late.

Since : Since we have enough resources, we should begin the project.

As : As the data was incomplete, the conclusions were questionable.

Given that : Given that we missed the deadline, we need a new strategy.

Considering : Considering her extensive experience, she’s the ideal candidate for the job.

Due to the fact that : Due to the fact that we received a generous grant, our research can continue.

Owing to : Owing to the budget cuts, we need to revise our plans.

Summary/Conclusion

In conclusion : In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports our theory.

To summarize : To summarize, three key points were discussed.

In sum : In sum, the proposal offers several noteworthy benefits.

To wrap up : To wrap up, I'd like to thank everyone for their participation.

In brief : In brief, we need to change our approach.

Overall : Overall, it's been a productive year for the company.

All in all : All in all, it was a fantastic concert.

To recap : To recap, make sure you understand the assignment before you begin.

In a nutshell : In a nutshell, the new policy will affect everyone in the department.

Then : Finish this task, then start on the next.

Afterwards : We'll have the meeting, and afterwards, we can discuss the matter privately.

Subsequently : He graduated in June, and subsequently found a job in July.

Soon after : The new model was released, and soon after, it became a best-seller.

Immediately : Immediately after the incident, the building was evacuated.

Wherever : Wherever you go, you’ll find people willing to help.

Whenever : Whenever I visit Paris, I feel like I'm in a dream.

While : While he was reading, the phone rang.

Meanwhile : He'll be here in an hour; meanwhile, let's get everything ready.

You deserve a better score!

Unlock the power of IELTSWritingPro and gain a competitive edge in your IELTS exam preparations. Our software employs advanced algorithms tailored to assess your essays based on the four core evaluation criteria, making it easier than ever to identify weak points and perfect your writing.

Connectors in English with Examples

Connectors are words or phrases used to link ideas, sentences , or paragraphs together in a coherent and cohesive manner. They help to create a logical flow of ideas and make written or spoken communication more effective. Here are some examples of connectors in English:

Table of Contents

Connectors in English

Connectors of addition:.

Words and phrases that add information to what has been previously stated.

Examples : Furthermore, in addition, moreover, also, besides, similarly, likewise.

• Furthermore: adds more information or supporting evidence to what has already been said
• The book is not only well-written, but it’s also beautifully designed. Furthermore, the illustrations are stunning.
• I didn’t just finish the project on time. Furthermore, I completed it to a high standard.
• In addition: adds another item or idea to a list
• I need to buy eggs, milk, and bread. In addition, I’m also going to get some cheese.
• The company offers good benefits, such as health insurance and paid time off. In addition, they also have a retirement savings plan.
• Moreover: indicates that what is being said is in addition to something already mentioned
• The store has a great selection of shoes. Moreover, they offer free shipping on all orders.
• I enjoyed the concert. Moreover, I got to meet the band afterward.
• Also: adds more information to what has already been said
• She’s a talented musician. Also, she’s a great songwriter.
• I’m going to the grocery store. Also, I need to stop at the bank.
• Besides: means “in addition to” or “apart from”
• Besides being a great athlete, he’s also an accomplished writer.
• Besides the fact that it’s expensive, I don’t really like that restaurant.
• Similarly: means “in a similar way” or “in the same manner”
• Just as my brother loves to play sports, similarly, I love to play musical instruments.
• The company values diversity. Similarly, they also prioritize inclusion in their hiring practices.
• Likewise: means “in the same way” or “similarly”
• He’s a hard worker. Likewise, his sister is also very dedicated to her work.
• The teacher is strict with deadlines. Likewise, she expects her students to be punctual.

Connectors of Contrast:

Words and phrases that show differences or contrasts between ideas.

Examples: However, although, yet, nevertheless, despite, whereas, but, on the other hand.

• However: indicates a contrast between two ideas or clauses
• I know it’s raining. However, I still want to go for a walk.
• He’s a great chef. However, his restaurant is always empty.
• Although: introduces a clause that contrasts with the main clause
• Although it’s cold outside, I’m not going to wear a coat.
• Although I’m tired, I’m going to finish this project tonight.
• Yet: indicates a contrast or unexpected outcome
• I studied hard for the test. Yet, I still failed.
• He’s a great athlete. Yet, he never seems to win any competitions.
• Nevertheless: means “in spite of that” or “however”
• I don’t really like the movie. Nevertheless, I think the acting is excellent.
• The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, we had a great time on our vacation.
• Despite: means “even though” or “regardless of”
• Despite the rain, the game still went on as planned.
• She continued to work despite feeling sick.
• Whereas: indicates a contrast between two things or ideas
• I love pizza, whereas my sister prefers sushi.
• The company’s profits increased, whereas its expenses decreased.
• But: indicates a contrast or exception to what has been said previously
• He’s a good driver, but he’s always getting into accidents.
• I love chocolate, but I try to limit how much I eat.
• On the other hand: introduces an alternative viewpoint or contrasting idea
• I don’t really like spicy food. On the other hand, my friend loves it.
• The new policy may be good for the environment, but on the other hand, it could be bad for the economy.

Cause and Effect: Words and phrases that show a cause-and-effect relationship between ideas.

Examples: Because, as a result, since, therefore, consequently, so, thus.

• Because: introduces the reason for something
• I’m not going to the party because I have to work tonight.
• The concert was canceled because of the weather.
• As a result: indicates the outcome or consequence of something
• I didn’t study for the exam, so as a result, I failed.
• The company didn’t meet its sales targets, and as a result, it had to lay off employees.
• Since: means “because” or “as a result of”
• Since it’s snowing, we’re going to stay inside and watch movies.
• He’s been studying hard since he wants to get into a good college.
• Therefore: indicates a logical conclusion or result
• The roads are icy, therefore it’s not safe to drive.
• We didn’t have enough ingredients to make lasagna, therefore we decided to make spaghetti instead.
• Consequently: means “as a result” or “therefore”
• The company didn’t invest in new technology, and consequently, it fell behind its competitors.
• I didn’t have enough money to pay for rent, consequently, I had to borrow some from my friend.
• So: indicates a consequence or conclusion
• I’m tired, so I’m going to bed early tonight.
• The traffic was terrible, so I was late to the meeting.
• Thus: indicates a logical conclusion or result
• We didn’t have enough time to finish the project, thus we had to ask for an extension.
• The study showed that exercise reduces stress, thus regular exercise is recommended for people with high-stress levels.

Time: Words and phrases that show time relationships between ideas.

Examples: After, before, during, while, until, next, then, and finally.

• After I finish my work, I’m going to the gym.
• Before we start the meeting, let’s review the agenda.
• During the concert, the audience was captivated by the singer’s voice.
• While I was studying for my exam, my roommate was watching TV.
• Until the rain stops, we’ll have to stay inside.
• Next, we’re going to discuss the budget for the project.
• Then, we can decide on the best course of action.
• Finally, after months of hard work, we completed the project.

Sequence: Words and phrases that show the order of events.

Examples: First, second, third, then, next, finally, subsequently, and afterward.

• First, let’s gather all the necessary equipment.
• Second, we need to review the safety procedures.
• Third, we can begin the experiment.
• Then, we’ll record our observations.
• Next, we’ll analyze the data we collected.
• Finally, we’ll draw our conclusions and write our report.
• Subsequently, we can present our findings to the class.
• Afterward, we can answer any questions they may have.

Example: Words and phrases that provide examples to support an idea.

Examples: For instance, for example, such as, namely, in particular.

• For instance, I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
• For example, some common fruits include apples, bananas, and oranges.
• Such as dogs, cats, and rabbits are common household pets.
• Namely, the four basic arithmetic operations are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• In particular, I am interested in studying marine biology.

Emphasis: Words and phrases that emphasize a point or idea.

Examples : Indeed, certainly, in fact, without a doubt, clearly, obviously, undoubtedly.

• Indeed, the new policy will have a significant impact on our operations.
• Clearly, there is a need for more resources to address this issue.
• Undoubtedly, her experience and expertise make her the best candidate for the job.
• Absolutely, we need to take immediate action to prevent further damage.
• In fact, studies show that regular exercise can improve mental health.
• Without a doubt, the team’s hard work and dedication led to their success.
• Frankly, I find your behavior unacceptable and disrespectful.
• Honestly, I have to say that I don’t agree with your decision.
• Needless to say, safety should always be our top priority.
• It goes without saying that honesty is the foundation of any successful relationship.

Using connectors in your writing or speaking can make your ideas clearer and more organized. They help to create a cohesive and logical flow of information and improve the overall effectiveness of your communication.

You May Also Like

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Connectors in English | List 0f 100 Common Connectors

Although connectors may seem like unnecessary words at first, they play an important role in English. Connectors can help you to make your point more clearly, and they can also add variety to your writing. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common connectors in English. We will also discuss the functions of these connectors, and we will provide examples of how they can be used. So, if you want to learn more about connectors, read on!

Table of Contents

100 Connectors in English

Connectors of addition.

• Additionally
• Furthermore
• What’s more
• In addition
• By the same
• Besides that
• For example
• In line manner

Connectors of Sequence

• By and large
• For the most part
• Subsequently
• To conclude
• First of all
• As a result
• By the large
• In the long run
• In conclusion
• On the whole
• Consequently
• By the time

  Connector for Opinion 

• Personally, I think
• If I am not mistaken
• As far as I’m concerned
• I might be wrong but
• As far as I know
• It seems likely
• It seems to me
• In my opinion
• In my experience
• I tend to think that
• Speaking for myself
• As far as I understand
• I believe that
• As for me, I think
• I am of mixed opinions about
• What I mean is
• I’d say that

Connector for Emphasis

• As it happens
• Significantly
• More importantly
• We could say
• In particular

Connector for Contrast 

• Despite this
• Nevertheless
• In spite of
• On the contrary
• Alternatively

Connector for Conclusion

• Summarising

C onnector for Comparison

• In the same way
• In comparison
• In contrast
• Even though
• Of contrast

Connector for Illustration

• An instance
• To show that
• In the case of
• As an example
• For one thing
• In other words
• For instance
• As revealed by

Connector for Cause & Effect 

• Results from
• Because of this
• Is the result of
• For this reason
• As a consequence of
• Is the consequence of
• Brings about
• Is caused by
• As a result of
• Contributes of

Connector for Persuasion

• Undoubtedly

Types Of Connectors

Connectors are used to join 2 separate sentences together, different types of conjunctions are given below:

Subordinating Conjunction

• To make a contrast

Coordinating Conjunction

Sentence connector.

• And therefore

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Connectors / Linking Words for Writing – Functions and Tips

Updated On Sep 15, 2023

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Table of Contents

• How do Linking Words or Connectors Function? 

Tips to Use Linking words or Connectors

Common linking words and connectors used in ielts writing.

Effective IELTS Essay Connectors for Writing Task 2 & Task 1

Linking words or connectors are the adverbs that turn out to be the easiest way to connect ideas or sentences with one unique word. Such linking words or connectors make the entire sentence look appealing. In IELTS, if you use the connesctors appropriately, it will showcase your advanced English communication skills.

So, in any way, if you find yourself stuck with handling these linking words or connectors, here are a few tips that will help you out.

How do Linking Words or Connectors Function? 

Jotted down below are a few reasons why you should be using linking words or connectors in your IELTS writing tasks:

• They make your writing clear and appealing.
• You get to provide meaning to otherwise complex sentences.
• They help readers understand how one sentence is related to the other.
• They help to know the purpose of the question and also give an appropriate answer to the question.

Here are a few tips that you can keep in mind when using linking words or connectors:

Are you being accurate with your choice of words?

There are a lot of linking words that can be used in a sentence, so you need to be careful while using the linking words and use them accurately.

Are you overusing linking words or connectors?

The linking words can be used once or twice in the sentence. Making overuse of the linking words in the sentence makes the sentence meaningless.

Are you mixing up?

Try to use a lot of linking words in the paragraph, but make sure the sentence is meaningful while using these words. Using a single word many times in a paragraph doesn’t make any sense. So while using the linking words, use them wisely.

When writing an essay or a report in an IELTS exam, there are plenty of linking words or connectors used throughout. You can take ideas from the ones mentioned below:

Also check :

• IELTS Writing
• IELTS Writing tips
• IELTS Writing recent actual test
• IELTS Writing Answer sheet
• IELTS Writing Practice tests

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are connectors important in writing?

Name some of the common connectors used in IELTS Writing?

What are some linking words expressing differences or contrasts?

Mention some linking words that can be used to express a finale or summarization

Where do you use connectors or linking words in IELTS writing?

Explore IELTS Writing

Proven tips to score Band 9 in IELTS Writing

Janet had been an IELTS Trainer before she dived into the field of Content Writing. During her days of being a Trainer, Janet had written essays and sample answers which got her students an 8+ band in the IELTS Test. Her contributions to our articles have been engaging and simple to help the students understand and grasp the information with ease. Janet, born and brought up in California, had no idea about the IELTS until she moved to study in Canada. Her peers leaned to her for help as her first language was English.

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English Grammar Here

Essay Connectors in English, Connection Words for Essay

Table of Contents

Essay Connectors

Did you know that there are many linkers and connectors that will allow you to use the English language more powerfully? Today, we will examine linkers with different meanings and give example sentences established with each linker. In this way, we believe that you can use these linkers much more easily in your essay works.

8 Tips On Writing An Effective Essay , Writing Essay Tips

When you use these connectors, which will give the meaning of contrast to the sentence, one half of the sentence and the other half should contain contradictory and unexpected statements. Let’s examine it on the example.

• In spite of : In spite of studied all night, got a very low score on the exam, and did not pass the class.
• Despite : I waited for you all day and I definitely didn’t start eating before you arrived, despite that it was clear that you didn’t care about me.
• However : The tourism industry in this country is developing more each year; However, the current policies of the new government have raised concerns about these tourism revenues.
• Although : Although these days I feel weak when you called me I got up and got ready and came here.

Reason and Cause

When you use essay connectors indicating the reason and cause in a sentence, two different clauses must be related to each other.

• As : I didn’t come with you today, as I had been working hard for my exams for two days and I was tired.
• Because of : Because of the paper he saw, he felt unhappy, weak, and depressed all day. I wish I could help him on this topic.
• Due to Due to his fight with his wife was not performing enough at work and could not show all his skills.
• Since : Since at the end of this year, my overall average is high, I think I will highlight it in internship applications and get what I want.

You can see that purpose connectors are usually used in sentences with an aim theme that contains information about the reason for any action. These have extremely powerful meanings and make your essay richer.

• For : Who do you think I did all this for? Of course, I did it all for you!
• In order to : When I went to the market today, I stopped by the sandwich shop in order to take something to you.
• In order not to : In order not to late this much, I woke up early in the morning and took care of my work while everyone was sleeping.
• So that : I worked all day today so that I don’t have to work tomorrow at all.
• So as to : When I came to class yesterday, I gave my students the essay exam so as to that I could take two exams next week and complete the grading process in a short time.
• So as not to : So as not to fight with my husband, I finished what he said before I got home.

When we are lining up information in a sentence or paragraph or trying to pass an event stream to the reader, we often need to use succession specifiers among the essay connectors. For this, we have the chance to benefit from the following alternatives:

• First of all : First of all, all of these things meant something to me, but it wasn’t enough.
• The next stage : So, the next stage is ready: From now on, he can finish our project without anyone’s help.
• In short : Now you know all of this, in short, you got through your journeyman period and entered the master period.
• In conclusion : When you consider all the above information, in conclusion, the basis of scientific knowledge is always experiments.

Paragraphs that indicate result in any subject can usually indicate cause and effect.

• As a result of As a result of her beauty, everyone at the prom suddenly fell in love with her.
• Therefore : I worked all day today to get your chores done; Therefore, you have no right to be angry with me for coming to this party late.

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