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.
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Linking words expressing order and sequence in academic writing
Linking words expressing additions in academic writing, linking words expressing cause and effect in academic writing, linking words expressing contrasts and comparisons in academic writing, linking words expressing emphasis in academic writing, linking words expressing illustrations in academic writing, linking words expressing summaries and conclusions in academic writing, linking words expressing conditionality in academic writing, linking words expressing generalisations in academic writing, linking words expressing concessions in academic writing.
1. First(ly), second(ly), third(ly)
Example: First, I review the existing literature on cross-border collaboration. Second, I explain the methodology …
Example: The thesis starts with a literature review. Next, I describe the case study design.
Example: Finally, recommendations for future research are presented.
4. Subsequently
Example: Study participants underwent several experiments and were subsequently examined.
5. Afterwards
Example: The event increased public awareness of this issue. Afterwards, politicians debated it more openly.
6. Eventually
Example: Eventually, this led to the creation of a social movement.
Example: Before scientists discovered the role of neurons in information processing, they assumed that…
8. Previously
Example: Previously, scholars believed that nurture was the most important factor in a child’s development.
Example: Scholars examine the causes and effects of poverty.
10. Furthermore
Example: Furthermore, the data illustrates the number of chemicals that can be found in drinking water.
11. Additionally
Example: Additionally, the interviewee lamented a lack of attention to his work.
12. As well as
Example: Scholars utilise qualitative as well as quantitative methods to study this phenomenon.
13. Besides
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.
15. Moreover
Example: Moreover, interviewees were asked to describe their own experiences.
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16. Because
Example: This theory was ultimately rejected because it was built on a flawed dataset.
Example: The outcomes improved since different parties joined forces.
Example: As the number of studies increases, better conclusions can be drawn.
Example: Scientists realised that the data analysis had flaws. So they decided not to run the same data analysis again.
20. Therefore
Example: Many researchers have conducted this experiment with similar results. Therefore, this theory can be debunked.
21. Consequently
Example: The literature highlights the importance of age and physical fitness. Consequently, these factors will be investigated further.
Example: Due to a low response rate, the study’s validity is low.
23. Nevertheless
Example: One academic study found the opposite results. Nevertheless, it can be argued that…
Example: Many scholars have explored this issue. Yet, to date, no inclusive framework exists to explain…
25. Although
Example: Although a confidentiality agreement was provided, study participants were hesitant to disclose private information.
26. In spite of
Example: In spite of the different study contexts, all experiments pointed to similar results.
27. Whereas
Example: People often stated that they are aware of the rules whereas they behaved as if they did not.
Example: While older studies often emphasise structural effects, newer ones tend to highlight the role of agency.
29. In contrast
Example: In contrast to previous findings, my analysis shows that…
30. Similarly
Example: One study found that the majority of residents in disadvantaged areas do not have access to sufficient resources. Similarly, my research revealed that most residents live too far away from the services and resources they would need to climb the social ladder.
31. Equally
Example: E qually important, however, is the role of personal beliefs in decision-making processes.
32. Likewise
Example: The interviewee considered this issue important and expected his colleagues to do likewise.
33. On the other hand
Example: On the one hand, research in this field advanced considerably in the last 20 years. On the other hand, a lot remains unclear.
Example: Unlike social scientists, physical scientists often conduct laboratory examinations.
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35. Particularly
Example: Particularly relevant for this study is the molecular orbital theory.
36. Especially
Example: Especially younger interviewees expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo.
37. Above all
Example: Above all, this method can generate better insights into the physical processes at hand.
Example: Indeed, motivation turned out to be a defining factor of academic success.
38. Clearly
Example: Clearly, these scholars were not aware of recent advances in medical sciences.
39. Definitely
Example: This was definitely the most important event of the year.
40. Importantly
Example: More importantly, the findings underscore the importance of conflict resolution.
41. Undoubtedly
Example: Undoubtedly, all stakeholders had good intentions.
42. Obviously
Example: Obviously it is too early to draw final conclusions.
43. Of course
Example: Of course, this study should be replicated in a different context.
44. Surprisingly
Example: Surprisingly, all results were unambiguous.
45. Such as
Example: Scientists have explored different parts of the problem, such as CO2 emissions and hydrological processes.
46. For example
Example: Many interviewees were nervous. For example, when asked to describe the event, some of them started to stutter.
47. For instance
Example: Scholars have criticised this approach for different reasons. For instance, they argued that qualitative methods are insufficient to draw generalisable conclusions.
48. In this case
Example: Difficulties arise when no study participants can be found. In this case, alternative methods should be considered.
50. To conclude
Example: To conclude, the empirical analysis supports previous research findings.
51. In conclusion
Example: In conclusion, the reviewed literature highlights a clear research gap.
52. To sum up
Example: To sum up, a mixed methods approach is a better choice than a purely quantitative one.
53. In summary
Example: In summary, it is my opinion that conditions should be improved.
54. In short
Example: In short, scholars call for more research on climate change mitigation.
55. Altogether
Example: Altogether, these examples support the main argument.
Example: Energy supply became a growing problem. Thus, new policies were implemented.
Example: The first dataset was incomplete. Hence, a new dataset had to be developed.
Example: Unless stated otherwise, I refer to the concept as…
59. As long as
Example: As long as the conditions do not change, the results should remain stable.
Example: If scientists study this phenomenon in the future, they should pay attention to structural drivers.
61. Provided that
Example: Provided that nothing changes, the effects on society will be negative.
Example: Should the distribution change, it is fair to expect…
63. Even if
Example: Even if more experiments are conducted, human behaviour remains hard to predict.
Example: Often, this issue was flagged by interviewees themselves.
65. Commonly
Example: Commonly, this criterion is used for categorising plants.
66. Overall
Example: Overall the data confirmed the hypothesis.
67. Typically
Example: Typically emotions run high in such situations.
68. Generally
Example: Generally speaking, scholars address this issue from two angles.
Example: Mainly researchers in the global North discuss this phenomenon.
Example: Mostly, these results cannot be replicated outside of the lab.
71. Even if
Example: This is hard to prove. Even if the study sample is large enough.
72. Regardless of
Example: Regardless of their genetic makeup, mice showcased the same symptoms.
Example: Albeit experiencing setbacks, successful students do not get discouraged.
74. Admittedly
Example: Admittedly, the validity of this study should be increased.
75. Nonetheless
Example: Nonetheless, this study can be seen as a valuable contribution to the international literature.
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- Academic writing
- Commonly confused words
- Critical thinking
- PEEL Paragraphs
- Linking/transition words
- Paraphrasing
- Proofreading
- Terms and definitions
- Action Words: What is description, application, analysis and evaluation
Linking/transition words: Things you need to know...
All assignments are written in formal language. You need to ensure that you demonstrate your knowledge and understanding alongside your ability to answer the question/solve the problem.
Below are some ideas to help you to develop your structure and flow.
- Linking / transition words and phrases join ideas, sentences and paragraphs together. They should be used within sentences and to move from one idea to another (between sentences).
These words and phrases indicate the direction, order and flow of ideas. Significantly, they strengthen the quality and structure of your work.
- Redundant Words - less is more. P articularly when trying to reduce the word count, it is important to look for phrases which can be replaced with a single word.
Linking/Transition Words
Transitions link one main idea to another separated by a semi-colon or full-stop. When the transition word is at the beginning of the sentence, it should be followed by a comma:
Among other functions, they can signal cause and effect or sequencing (see examples in the table below).
Linking words: conjunctions
Linking words within a sentence are referred to as coordinating conjunctions. Do not worry about the term: think about the function.
Conciseness / redundant words
Microsoft Word now has an additional feature within the Edito r - it is called conciseness or wordiness.
- If you cannot see the Editor menu a quick tip is to hold down the function (fn key at the bottom left of the keyboard) + F7 (top line of keys).
- From the Refinements section - select Conciseness - if there are any suggestions a number will appear in the box alongside this option
- A dotted line will appear under any groups of groups
- Either select the identified text by clicking with your right mouse button OR click on the down down next to the Conciseness menu.
- MS Word will display any alternative words which you can either select and they will be replaced in your text or reject if you want to keep the original phrases.
Examples: try to replace phrases with a single words which mean the same.
Need to know more...
- Related pages
- External links
- Academic writing Illustrates the main features of academic writing so that you are aware of what it is and what it involves
- Critical Thinking Academic work involves thinking, not just accepting what you read or are told.
- Terms and Definitions Important words appear in your assignments and examinations. The aim of this factsheet is to help you to fully understand what they mean.
Additional resources to help you to improve your confidence and grades:-
- Writing Effectively demonstrates the importance of: clarity, structure, relevance, argument and precision.
- Writing Mechanics gives further examples and resources on areas including: sentence structure, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Linking/Transition words - Scribbr https://www.scribbr.co.uk/syntax/transition-words-examples/ [Accessed 10 February 2023]
There are many books concerning academic writing, look around Dewey number 808
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Transitional Words and Phrases
One of your primary goals as a writer is to present ideas in a clear and understandable way. To help readers move through your complex ideas, you want to be intentional about how you structure your paper as a whole as well as how you form the individual paragraphs that comprise it. In order to think through the challenges of presenting your ideas articulately, logically, and in ways that seem natural to your readers, check out some of these resources: Developing a Thesis Statement , Paragraphing , and Developing Strategic Transitions: Writing that Establishes Relationships and Connections Between Ideas.
While clear writing is mostly achieved through the deliberate sequencing of your ideas across your entire paper, you can guide readers through the connections you’re making by using transitional words in individual sentences. Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between your ideas and can help your reader understand your paper’s logic.
In what follows, we’ve included a list of frequently used transitional words and phrases that can help you establish how your various ideas relate to each other. We’ve divided these words and phrases into categories based on the common kinds of relationships writers establish between ideas.
Two recommendations: Use these transitions strategically by making sure that the word or phrase you’re choosing matches the logic of the relationship you’re emphasizing or the connection you’re making. All of these words and phrases have different meanings, nuances, and connotations, so before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely, and be sure that it’s the right match for your paper’s logic. Use these transitional words and phrases sparingly because if you use too many of them, your readers might feel like you are overexplaining connections that are already clear.
Categories of Transition Words and Phrases
Causation Chronology Combinations Contrast Example
Importance Location Similarity Clarification Concession
Conclusion Intensification Purpose Summary
Transitions to help establish some of the most common kinds of relationships
Causation– Connecting instigator(s) to consequence(s).
accordingly as a result and so because
consequently for that reason hence on account of
since therefore thus
Chronology– Connecting what issues in regard to when they occur.
after afterwards always at length during earlier following immediately in the meantime
later never next now once simultaneously so far sometimes
soon subsequently then this time until now when whenever while
Combinations Lists– Connecting numerous events. Part/Whole– Connecting numerous elements that make up something bigger.
additionally again also and, or, not as a result besides even more
finally first, firstly further furthermore in addition in the first place in the second place
last, lastly moreover next second, secondly, etc. too
Contrast– Connecting two things by focusing on their differences.
after all although and yet at the same time but
despite however in contrast nevertheless nonetheless notwithstanding
on the contrary on the other hand otherwise though yet
Example– Connecting a general idea to a particular instance of this idea.
as an illustration e.g., (from a Latin abbreviation for “for example”)
for example for instance specifically that is
to demonstrate to illustrate
Importance– Connecting what is critical to what is more inconsequential.
chiefly critically
foundationally most importantly
of less importance primarily
Location– Connecting elements according to where they are placed in relationship to each other.
above adjacent to below beyond
centrally here nearby neighboring on
opposite to peripherally there wherever
Similarity– Connecting to things by suggesting that they are in some way alike.
by the same token in like manner
in similar fashion here in the same way
likewise wherever
Other kinds of transitional words and phrases Clarification
i.e., (from a Latin abbreviation for “that is”) in other words
that is that is to say to clarify to explain
to put it another way to rephrase it
granted it is true
naturally of course
finally lastly
in conclusion in the end
to conclude
Intensification
in fact indeed no
of course surely to repeat
undoubtedly without doubt yes
for this purpose in order that
so that to that end
to this end
in brief in sum
in summary in short
to sum up to summarize
Improving Your Writing Style
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Clear, Concise Sentences
Use the active voice
Put the action in the verb
Tidy up wordy phrases
Reduce wordy verbs
Reduce prepositional phrases
Reduce expletive constructions
Avoid using vague nouns
Avoid unneccessarily inflated words
Avoid noun strings
Connecting Ideas Through Transitions
Using Transitional Words and Phrases
33 Transition Words and Phrases
Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one.
Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that “this follows logically from the preceding” include accordingly, therefore, and consequently . Words that mean “in addition to” include moreover, besides, and further . Words that mean “contrary to what was just stated” include however, nevertheless , and nonetheless .
as a result : THEREFORE : CONSEQUENTLY
The executive’s flight was delayed and they accordingly arrived late.
in or by way of addition : FURTHERMORE
The mountain has many marked hiking trails; additionally, there are several unmarked trails that lead to the summit.
at a later or succeeding time : SUBSEQUENTLY, THEREAFTER
Afterward, she got a promotion.
even though : ALTHOUGH
She appeared as a guest star on the show, albeit briefly.
in spite of the fact that : even though —used when making a statement that differs from or contrasts with a statement you have just made
They are good friends, although they don't see each other very often.
in addition to what has been said : MOREOVER, FURTHERMORE
I can't go, and besides, I wouldn't go if I could.
as a result : in view of the foregoing : ACCORDINGLY
The words are often confused and are consequently misused.
in a contrasting or opposite way —used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility
Large objects appear to be closer. Conversely, small objects seem farther away.
used to introduce a statement that is somehow different from what has just been said
These problems are not as bad as they were. Even so, there is much more work to be done.
used as a stronger way to say "though" or "although"
I'm planning to go even though it may rain.
in addition : MOREOVER
I had some money to invest, and, further, I realized that the risk was small.
in addition to what precedes : BESIDES —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement
These findings seem plausible. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed them.
because of a preceding fact or premise : for this reason : THEREFORE
He was a newcomer and hence had no close friends here.
from this point on : starting now
She announced that henceforth she would be running the company.
in spite of that : on the other hand —used when you are saying something that is different from or contrasts with a previous statement
I'd like to go; however, I'd better not.
as something more : BESIDES —used for adding information to a statement
The city has the largest population in the country and in addition is a major shipping port.
all things considered : as a matter of fact —used when making a statement that adds to or strengthens a previous statement
He likes to have things his own way; indeed, he can be very stubborn.
for fear that —often used after an expression denoting fear or apprehension
He was concerned lest anyone think that he was guilty.
in addition : ALSO —often used to introduce a statement that adds to and is related to a previous statement
She is an acclaimed painter who is likewise a sculptor.
at or during the same time : in the meantime
You can set the table. Meanwhile, I'll start making dinner.
BESIDES, FURTHER : in addition to what has been said —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement
It probably wouldn't work. Moreover, it would be very expensive to try it.
in spite of that : HOWEVER
It was a predictable, but nevertheless funny, story.
in spite of what has just been said : NEVERTHELESS
The hike was difficult, but fun nonetheless.
without being prevented by (something) : despite—used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true
Notwithstanding their youth and inexperience, the team won the championship.
if not : or else
Finish your dinner. Otherwise, you won't get any dessert.
more correctly speaking —used to introduce a statement that corrects what you have just said
We can take the car, or rather, the van.
in spite of that —used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true
I tried again and still I failed.
by that : by that means
He signed the contract, thereby forfeiting his right to the property.
for that reason : because of that
This tablet is thin and light and therefore very convenient to carry around.
immediately after that
The committee reviewed the documents and thereupon decided to accept the proposal.
because of this or that : HENCE, CONSEQUENTLY
This detergent is highly concentrated and thus you will need to dilute it.
while on the contrary —used to make a statement that describes how two people, groups, etc., are different
Some of these species have flourished, whereas others have struggled.
NEVERTHELESS, HOWEVER —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way
It was pouring rain out, yet his clothes didn’t seem very wet.
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Useful Linking Words and Phrases to Use in Your Essays
By: Author Sophia
Posted on Last updated: October 26, 2023
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Linking words and phrases are used to show relationships between ideas. They can be used to join two or more sentences or clauses.
We can use linking words to give a result , add information , summarize , give illustrations , emphasize a point , sequence information , compare or to contrast idea .
Useful Linking Words and Phrases
In this article, you will learn about the most common linking words and phrases:
Giving a Result
Usage : To provide the result of what has been stated or has occurred
Linking W ords :
- As a result
- As a consequence
- Consequently
- For this reason
- His wife left him. As a result , he became very depressed.
- She has lived in France, and as a consequence she speaks French fluently.
- We do not have enough money. T herefore we cannot afford to buy the new car.
- We do not own the building. Thus , it would be impossible for us to make any major changes to it.
- There has been a great deal of rain and consequently the reservoirs are full.
- The customer was displeased with her meal, hence the chef prepared a replacement.
- For this reason , they are not a good choice for exterior use.
- Due to a broken wing, this bird can’t fly.
Adding Information
Usage : To add to what has been previously stated
Linking Words:
- Additionally / an additional
- Furthermore
- As well as that
- In addition
- In addition to this
- Apart from this
- Additionally , the bus service will run on Sundays, every two hours.
- He said he had not discussed the matter with her. Furthermore , he had not even contacted her.
- We are unable to repair this watch. Also , this is the fourth time this has happened.
- I love wearing earrings. I design and make them too .
- We went to the park today. As well as that , we did some shopping.
- Along with parties and parliaments, elections have lost their charm.
- I can’t afford to go to the concert. Besides , I don’t really like classical music.
- You haven’t paid the rent yet. In addition , you owe me money.
- The report is badly presented. Moreover , it contains inaccuracies.
- John’s grades are terrible because he has been so lazy these days. In addition to this , his relationship to his parents got worse.
- Apart from this paragraph, the report contains a number of sensible initiatives.
Summarizing
Usage : To sump up what has been previously stated
Linking words :
- In conclusion
- To summarize
- To conclude
- In conclusion , walking is a cheap, safe, enjoyable and readily available form of exercise.
- To summarize , this is a clever approach to a common problem.
- The food was good and we loved the music. Altogether it was a great evening.
- His novels belong to a great but vanished age. They are, in short , old-fashioned.
- To sum up , there are three main ways of tackling the problem…
- In summary , this was a disappointing performance.
- Briefly , our team is now one of the best in the world.
- To conclude , I want to wish you all a very happy holiday season.
Giving Examples
Usage : To provide examples
Linking words:
- For example/ For instance
- In this case
- Proof of this
- There are many interesting places to visit in the city, for example / for instance , the botanical garden or the art museum.
- I prefer to wear casual clothes, such as jeans and a sweatshirt.
- Including Christmas Day and Boxing Day, I’ve got a week off work.
- We need to concentrate on our target audience, namely women aged between 20 and 30.
- I think I would have made a difference in this case .
- This building are a living proof of this existence, so we must preserve it.
- I also make other jewellery like rings and bracelets.
Emphasizing a Point
Usage : To put forward a point or idea more forcefully
- Undoubtedly
- Particularly / in particular
- Importantly
- Without a doubt
- It should be noted
- Unquestionably
- Undoubtedly , the story itself is one of the main attractions.
- I don’t mind at all. Indeed , I would be delighted to help.
- Obviously , we don’t want to spend too much money.
- I love silver earrings, in particular ones from Mexico
- The car is quite small, especially if you have children.
- Clearly , this will cost a lot more than we realized.
- More importantly , can he be trusted?
- He’s an absolutely brilliant cook.
- I definitely remember sending the letter.
- We still believe we can win this series without a doubt .
- I’m neve r surprised at what I do.
- It should be noted that if you have something to note, then note it
- Unquestionably , teaching has been a paramount part of his career.
- Above all , this forest is designed for wear and tear.
- This is positively the worst thing that I can even imagine.
Sequencing Ideas
Usage : To indicate the order of what is being said
- First/ firstly (Second/ secondly, Third/ thirdly, Finally)
- At this time
- Subsequently
- Lastly and most importantly
- Last but not least
- First and foremost
- Firstly , I prefer the train because I can see the landscape.
- At this time , the young man leapt into the air and flew off towards sunset.
- They arrived on Monday evening and we got there the following day.
- I had visited them three days previously .
- Your name is before mine on the list.
- Subsequently , new guidelines were issued to all employees.
- Above all , keep in touch.
- Lastly, and most importantly , you should be optimistic.
- Last but not least , I find I seriously cannot relate to women.
- We will continue to focus on our players first and foremost .
Comparing Ideas
Usage: To show how things are similar
- Compare / compare(d) to(with)
- By the same token
- In the same way
- Correspondingly
- Similarly , the basketball and hockey games draw nearly full attendance.
- Equally , not all customers are honest.
- Her second marriage was likewise unhappy.
- She’s just as smart as her sister.
- Working with housecats is just like working with lions or tigers.
- Some people say I have a running style similar to him.
- Having a power is not the same as using the power.
- He gets the ball off quickly compared to two years ago.
- Teenagers should be more respectful; by the same token , parents should be more understanding.
- Alex enjoys telling jokes; in the same way/similarly/likewise ,his son adores funny stories.
- Correspondingly , the roles each of them played were soon different.
Contrasting Ideas
Usage : To show how things are different
- Nevertheless
- On the other hand
- Nonetheless
- Despite / in spite of
- In contrast (to)
- Alternatively
- Differing from
- Contrary to
- Unlike most systems, this one is very easy to install.
- There is little chance that we will succeed in changing the law. Nevertheless , it is important that we try.
- Laptops are convenient; O n the other hand , they can be expensive.
- The problems are not serious. Nonetheless , we shall need to tackle them soon.
- Despite/ In spite of the rain, I went for a walk.
- In contrast to the diligent bee, the butterfly flies hither and yon with no apparent purpose.
- The agency will make travel arrangements for you. Alternatively , you can organize your own transport.
- Northern European countries had a great summer. On the contrary/conversely , Southern Europe had poor weather.
- Even so , many old friends were shocked at the announcement.
- Differing from his white colleagues, he preferred instructing his scholars to the ambition of acquiring personal renown.
- The situation in Ireland is quite contrary to this principle.
Linking Words for Essays | Images
Below is a handy list of words that are both useful and appropriate to academic language:
Other linking words to give an example or an illustration:
- In this case,
- In another case
- Take the case of
- To illustrate
- As an
- Illustration
- To take another example
- That is
- As shown by
- As illustrated by
- As expressed by
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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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- 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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Transition Words
As a "part of speech" transition words are used to link words, phrases or sentences. They help the reader to progress from one idea (expressed by the author) to the next idea. Thus, they help to build up coherent relationships within the text.
Transitional Words
This structured list of commonly used English transition words — approximately 200, can be considered as quasi complete. It can be used (by students and teachers alike) to find the right expression. English transition words are essential, since they not only connect ideas, but also can introduce a certain shift, contrast or opposition, emphasis or agreement, purpose, result or conclusion, etc. in the line of argument. The transition words and phrases have been assigned only once to somewhat artificial categories, although some words belong to more than one category.
There is some overlapping with prepositions and postpositions, but for the purpose of usage and completeness of this concise guide, I did not differentiate.
Linking & Connecting Words — Part 1/2
Agreement / Addition / Similarity
Opposition / limitation / contradiction, examples / support / emphasis, cause / condition / purpose, effect / consequence / result, conclusion / summary / restatement, time / chronology / sequence, space / location / place.
The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise , add information , reinforce ideas , and express agreement with preceding material.
in the first place
not only ... but also
as a matter of fact
in like manner
in addition
coupled with
in the same fashion / way
first, second, third
in the light of
not to mention
to say nothing of
equally important
by the same token
identically
together with
comparatively
correspondingly
furthermore
additionally
Transition phrases like but , rather and or , express that there is evidence to the contrary or point out alternatives , and thus introduce a change the line of reasoning ( contrast ).
although this may be true
in contrast
different from
of course ..., but
on the other hand
on the contrary
at the same time
in spite of
even so / though
be that as it may
(and) still
even though
nevertheless
nonetheless
notwithstanding
These transitional phrases present specific conditions or intentions .
in the event that
granted (that)
as / so long as
on (the) condition (that)
for the purpose of
with this intention
with this in mind
in the hope that
to the end that
for fear that
in order to
seeing / being that
provided that
only / even if
inasmuch as
These transitional devices (like especially ) are used to introduce examples as support , to indicate importance or as an illustration so that an idea is cued to the reader.
in other words
to put it differently
for one thing
as an illustration
in this case
for this reason
to put it another way
that is to say
with attention to
by all means
important to realize
another key point
first thing to remember
most compelling evidence
must be remembered
point often overlooked
to point out
on the positive side
on the negative side
specifically
surprisingly
significantly
particularly
in particular
for example
for instance
to demonstrate
to emphasize
to enumerate
Some of these transition words ( thus, then, accordingly, consequently, therefore, henceforth ) are time words that are used to show that after a particular time there was a consequence or an effect .
Note that for and because are placed before the cause/reason. The other devices are placed before the consequences or effects.
as a result
under those circumstances
in that case
because the
consequently
accordingly
These transition words and phrases conclude , summarize and / or restate ideas, or indicate a final general statement . Also some words (like therefore ) from the Effect / Consequence category can be used to summarize.
as can be seen
generally speaking
in the final analysis
all things considered
as shown above
in the long run
given these points
as has been noted
for the most part
in conclusion
to summarize
by and large
on the whole
in any event
in either case
These transitional words (like finally ) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time . They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions .
at the present time
from time to time
sooner or later
up to the present time
to begin with
in due time
in the meantime
in a moment
without delay
all of a sudden
at this instant
first, second
immediately
straightaway
by the time
occasionally
Many transition words in the time category ( consequently; first, second, third; further; hence; henceforth; since; then, when; and whenever ) have other uses.
Except for the numbers ( first, second, third ) and further they add a meaning of time in expressing conditions, qualifications, or reasons. The numbers are also used to add information or list examples . Further is also used to indicate added space as well as added time.
These transition words are often used as part of adverbial expressions and have the function to restrict, limit or qualify space . Quite a few of these are also found in the Time category and can be used to describe spatial order or spatial reference.
in the middle
to the left/right
in front of
on this side
in the distance
here and there
in the foreground
in the background
in the center of
adjacent to
opposite to
List of Transition Words
Transition Words are also sometimes called (or put in the category of) Connecting Words. Please feel free to download them via this link to the category page: Linking Words & Connecting Words as a PDF. It contains all the transition words listed on this site. The image to the left gives you an impression how it looks like.
Usage of Transition Words in Essays
Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays , papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms ).
All English transition words and phrases (sometimes also called 'conjunctive adverbs') do the same work as coordinating conjunctions : they connect two words, phrases or clauses together and thus the text is easier to read and the coherence is improved.
Usage: transition words are used with a special rule for punctuation : a semicolon or a period is used after the first 'sentence', and a comma is almost always used to set off the transition word from the second 'sentence'.
Example 1: People use 43 muscles when they frown; however, they use only 28 muscles when they smile.
Example 2: however, transition words can also be placed at the beginning of a new paragraph or sentence - not only to indicate a step forward in the reasoning, but also to relate the new material to the preceding thoughts..
Use a semicolon to connect sentences, only if the group of words on either side of the semicolon is a complete sentence each (both must have a subject and a verb, and could thus stand alone as a complete thought).
Further helpful readings about expressions, writing and grammar: Compilation of Writing Tips How to write good ¦ Correct Spelling Study by an English University
Are you using WORD for writing professional texts and essays? There are many easy Windows Shortcuts available which work (almost) system-wide (e.g. in every programm you use).
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The Ultimate List of Linking Words for Your Essay
Let’s face it: You can’t write an essay (or any other writing piece) without linking words.
Also known as connecting words or transition words, they serve to make your writing flow and help those reading your work follow the flow of your thoughts, ideas , and arguments .
This post is your guide to linking words and their role in writing. Not only will you learn the types of these words, examples, and reasons to use them, but you’ll also get a massive list of transition words and phrases as well as linking words PDF to download and use whenever necessary.
Table of Contents:
What are Linking Words?
Why use transition words in essays, linking words examples, addition/agreement/similarity, contrast/contradiction/limitation/opposition, comparison/concession/condition, clarification, cause/effect/result, emphasis/example, generalization, illustration, location/place/space, reason/reference, time/sequence, summary/conclusion/restatement.
- The Ultimate List of Linking Words: Download
Linking words are lexical items (words and phrases) we use to connect ideas in writing and get a reader to the next sentence or paragraph.
They aren’t about essay writing only:
Whether you write a fiction book, marketing content , academic works, autobiography , or poems, you’ll need to connect ideas. That’s what transition words do:
They link your thoughts and arguments into a chain to show how they relate to each other. Also known as transition words, these phrases often start a sentence or a paragraph. However, you’ll also use them in the middle of sentences to bring ideas together.
The most common places for linking words in essays are:
- the start of a paragraph
- the start of a sentence introducing a new idea or extending an argument
- the beginning of a concluding statement
Essay linking words is an integral part of academic writing. Put it simply, you can’t write a paper without using them; otherwise, your writing won’t make any sense for readers.
Transition words for essay serve to:
- connect ideas in writing
- create a flow of thoughts and arguments for readers to understand what you want to say
- guide readers from one idea to another, demonstrating how they relate to each other
- hook readers and encourage them to read the next sentence or paragraph
- add more information
- support or contrast a point
- show the result, conclude, demonstrate an effect of this or that point
Using essay maker and connecting words, each sentence and paragraph must pass readers on to the next one. These connecting words serve as an instrument to guide readers from one thought or point to the next.
Linking words examples are many, and it’s clear why: every piece of writing contains tons of connecting and transition words. Let’s take an essay sample from Bid4Papers writers to see the example of linking words in academic writing:
This one was an essay introduction .
Now, why not take a step further and look for essay linking words in essay conclusions ?
Types and List of Linking Words to Use in Essays
Below you’ll find the ultimate list of transition words for essays by categories. Choose the role you need a word to play (reason, contrast, emphasis, restatement, etc.) and consider the corresponding table of transitions.
If you need the whole transition words list in one place, jump to the next category of this post to find the downloadable linking words pdf.
And now, for connecting words categories:
These words serve to add info to what you’ve previously stated, demonstrate the commonality between arguments, and support your thoughts.
Linking words for contrast is your instrument to show how things are different and provide counterarguments. They work best in persuasive and critical essays.
These lexical items will help you if you need to provide conditions to your statements, show how things are different/similar, or accept a point with reservation.
These words will help you with personal or narrative essays: They are linking words in opinion writing that indicates you’re going to explore ideas in more detail.
Expository essays will win with these words too.
Cause and effect connecting words do what their name says exactly: demonstrating a cause of some point and providing the result of what has been done or started.
These words are for putting forward your point more forcefully, providing examples.
Perfect transition words for hypothesis essays , generalization lexical items serve to make a general statement you’ll then specify and prove in detail.
These words and phrases are for you to provide examples in essays.
Use these words to provide order and reference or clarify spatial relationships between your points or ideas.
These transitional words will help you demonstrate relationships between ideas and provide reasons for what and why has started or occurred.
Use these words in your essay when you need to indicate the time and order of what you say.
Restatement words will help you express an alternative to what you previously stated. They work for all essay types, including rhetorical precis and dialectic essays .
Use summary and conclusion transitional phrases to sum up your points and come up with the final paragraph of your writing.
The Ultimate List of Connecting Words: Download
And now, for the most interesting and practical part:
Below you can find the linking words worksheet that gathers all the most commonly used transitional words in essays. Feel free to download this linking words PDF and refer to it every time you write an essay and experience writer’s block:
Do you need more guides and worksheets like this to assist you with academic writing? Please share your ideas in the comments, and our writers will be happy to help!
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- Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Published on 20 October 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on 15 March 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.
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.
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Linking Words for Essay Writing: Useful Paragraph Phrases
Importance of Linking Words in Essay Writing
An essay is an important piece of writing when a student is seeking college admission. It needs to have a clear flow so that the readability is perfect. Rightly so, the sentences you construct need to flow and lead to each other seamlessly.
Linking or transition words come in handy to make your essay have comprehensible sentences. The words act as the ideal connectors and bridges that eliminate sentence isolation.
Factually, both writing and speaking need linking words that will help the audience form a clear relationship between ideas. Listeners and readers are able to comprehend responses when the right linking words are in place.
What are Linking Words in Essay Writing?
Linking words are the uniformity basis of an essay. When these words are in an essay, they showcase a connection between sentences. As usual, a typical essay consists of different sections and paragraphs.
If there are no transition words, the sentences will appear incoherent and messy. The use of linking words clearly show the relationship existing between all sections and paragraphs in an essay.
When writing your essay, make use of linking words as a bridge between the concepts you are writing and ideas in your essay. The readers will enjoy a cohesive piece of essay with texts that are flowing smoothly.
The assessment team has a lot of essays to read and you can make their work easy by using your linking words appropriately. If this is not the case, your professor will have to go through a lot of stress in trying to understand your essay.
Basically, if you want to impress your readers and consequently improve your scores, practice the best linking words skills.
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Reasons for Using Linking Words in Essay Writing
Only proper usage of linking words will help you come up with a compelling essay. After toiling to conduct research for your essay, improper structure of sentences will make your efforts go to waste.
Good students endeavor and strive to create an appealing and expressive essay. A thorough use of the right linking words will make your presentation and persuasion of ideas flow perfectly.
Linking words are very crucial in any type of essay . If you do not want your texts to appear clucky, transition words ought to be in place.
Here are more reasons why you need linking words in your essay:
1. Flow of Order and Sequence
An essay needs flow of texts, ideas and thoughts otherwise it will lose its quality. Therefore, writers need to make huge efforts and use the right linking words that will bring a sequence of order in the essay.
Such words include next, then, firstly, secondly, afterwards, finally and afterwards. Other transition words to use include concurrently, at the same time, earlier, first of all, following this and for now.
A good sequence order in your essay is also enhanced when you use words such as lastly, in the end, in the beginning or once upon a time.
2. Showcasing Comparison
There are essays that will require the writer to show comparison. Linking words play an important role in contrast and argumentative essays .
If you need to bring out comparison clearly, consider the use of words such as similarly, equally, comparable, in the same time and likewise.
Apart from same as, other words or phrases to use include just like, just as and comparably.
3. Contrasting
Transition words are the best when you want to bring out contrast in a sentence. In most of the cases, place then at the beginning or in the middle of your sentence to create the right contrast.
However, despite this, yet, whereas and alternatively are some of the words you can use.
4. Illustration of Examples
There are places in your essay where you will have to give examples. Obviously, most essays will need illustration of evidence with the use of linking words.
Giving examples without these words will make your text to sound blunt.
Linking words such as for instance, in the case of, and for instance will make it easy to introduce your examples.
5. Including Additions
You will also need to use linking words when putting additions in your essays. These words will ensure that you have added a txt with the correct meaning to your essay.
Furthermore, also, secondly, in addition and moreover are some of the linking words to use.
6. Introduction of Cause and Effects
Cause and effects in an essay can help the writer draw a sensible conclusion. In essence, it helps to bring about good connection of the essay when a conclusion is being added. Therefore, the relationship between cause and effect is better shown using the right linking words.
Owing to, thus, since, as a result of and because are some of the transition words you can use. Other words to use include stems from, leads to, results from, for this reason etc.
7. For Conclusion Purposes
Starting an impressive essay can only be better if the conclusion is attractive. It is good to bring about the conclusion using appropriate linking words that are not common.
You can conclude your essay using words such as finally, in conclusion, summarizing, in summary and briefly.
As a writer, you need to bear in mind that adjusting and positioning these words is a must if you are to impress your readers.
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Dos of Using Linking Words
- Adjust and position your linking words properly otherwise the reader will not be impressed.
- Do mix up the linking words you use. Using one word several times can be very annoying to the reader. Since the transition phrases are many, mix them up in your essay to avoid repetition.
- Be accurate in using these words when connecting your ideas in an essay. Know the difference between these phrases to understand the meaning correctly.
- You can use these words when you want to accentuate a point. In other words, use them to stress something important in your writing.
30 Examples of Linking Words for Essay Writing
- On the flipside
- On the contrary
- By and large
- As a consequence of
- In conclusion
- Following this
- At this point of time
- In the same way
- As an example
- In other words
- To put it differently
- Under the circumstances
- That is to say
- With this intention
- Subsequently
- In order to
- Of less importance
- What’s more
- Furthermore
- Alternatively
- In spite of
- To illustrate
- To demonstrate
- In the middle of
- For the avoidance of doubt
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Wrapping Up on Linking words on Essay Writing
You can’t overlook the significance of linking words in essay writing. Transition words are important in bringing ideas together so that they appear as a whole in your essay.
All in all, an essay that flows well must incorporate the right transition words to link arguments and actions. The readers will be able to connect an event that took place because of a consequence of a different action.
Essays need to have a flow of ideas with each one building on the other. Yet still, organization of thoughts in essay writing is valuable and this is where linking words play a critical role.
To sum it up, the more your thoughts are in good organization, the smoother your essay will flow. When you use linking words appropriately, your piece will have a logical structure that is appealing to the reader.
When not handling complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.
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Breakout English
Linking words – How to improve your writing
Linking words, also known as linkers, cohesive devices, connectors and transition words, are a vital part of writing. Often when we teach English, we feed vocabulary and phrases to students which, if we’re not careful, can start sounding forced. For me, linking words are the exception to that. I find that a solid lesson with these special words can almost certainly help improve a students writing regardless of the level. It’s not just because it appears in writing marking scales for every official exam there is, it’s because they actually work. Without linking words, texts can feel dull and disconnected. That’s definitely not the image we want to give when trying to prove our level of English.
What are linking words?
There are linking words and phrases for different purposes. You can find exhaustive lists of linking words examples all over the web, but the important thing is using them to good effect.
If your writing was like the human body, the content words would be the flesh and the paragraph structure would be the skeleton. Linkers are like the joints of your writing. They help to connect the different parts together and interact with each other. An essay with good cohesive devices will flow and be easy to read. In fact, it’s practically impossible to write without them. You can do a fun writing activity with a consequences game in another post .
Linking words at different levels
Let’s use Cambridge writing scales as a guide for what we should be using at different levels. At B1 Preliminary (PET) candidates are expected to use basic linking words. Basic linking words are essentially and , so , but and because . At B2 First (FCE) level, a variety of linking words should be used. While by C1 Advanced (CAE), candidates are using cohesive devices to generally good effect.
Although the terminology shifts between levels, the concept is the same. An exam candidate’s writing should be connected together in a way that makes it flow from one section to another using words that help to achieve said outcome. Notice that it’s not until C2 Proficiency (CPE) level that candidates should be able to use cohesive devices with flexibility.
For more information about how Cambridge writing is marked, check out the different scales here .
If you’re looking to improve your writing for the Cambridge Advanced exam, consider our book Cambridge Advanced Writing Plus .
Linking words examples
There are so many transition words you can use in your writing, but having a ridiculously long list isn’t the best option in this case (and I’m normally a big fan of lists). When I teach writing, I tend to focus on a selection of common and useful linking words. These can be associated with their purpose. Words similar to and are used to add additional information. Words similar to but are used to contrast ideas. Words similar to so provide result and those similar to because develop reason.
This list is not exhaustive, but it’s enough for 90% of learners who are using linking words in English. These are good cohesive devices for an essay, a formal letter or a report. They can be used in a wide range of styles and contexts. Keep in mind that linking words and phrases are also a strong indication of formality in a text, but they aren’t the only factor.
The other essential factor to consider with linkers is how to use them in a sentence. Different ones need different grammatical structures surrounding them. This is what the activity below focusses on in detail.
The materials
There is little doubt that any exam preparation course will include a lesson on producing cohesive writing. These materials associate complex linkers with simple comparison words before putting them to use. We’ll consider both the meaning and the use of linking words and phrases. The topic focuses on money and wealth, which can pop up anywhere from B1 level onwards. Use them to improve writing skills, especially in formal writings like essays, reports and proposals.
EXAM PART : Writing
EXAM SKILLS : Using cohesive devices to improve organisation
TOPIC: Money
TIME: 60 minutes
PREPARATION: One copy of the worksheet per student
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- 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays
To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.
Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.
It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.
If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.
General explaining
Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.
1. In order to
Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”
2. In other words
Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”
3. To put it another way
Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”
4. That is to say
Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”
5. To that end
Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”
Adding additional information to support a point
Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.
6. Moreover
Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”
7. Furthermore
Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”
8. What’s more
Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”
9. Likewise
Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”
10. Similarly
Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”
11. Another key thing to remember
Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”
12. As well as
Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”
13. Not only… but also
Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”
14. Coupled with
Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”
15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…
Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.
16. Not to mention/to say nothing of
Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”
Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast
When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.
17. However
Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”
18. On the other hand
Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”
19. Having said that
Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”
20. By contrast/in comparison
Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”
21. Then again
Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”
22. That said
Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”
Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”
Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations
Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.
24. Despite this
Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”
25. With this in mind
Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”
26. Provided that
Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”
27. In view of/in light of
Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”
28. Nonetheless
Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”
29. Nevertheless
Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”
30. Notwithstanding
Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”
Giving examples
Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.
31. For instance
Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”
32. To give an illustration
Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”
Signifying importance
When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.
33. Significantly
Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”
34. Notably
Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”
35. Importantly
Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”
Summarising
You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.
36. In conclusion
Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”
37. Above all
Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”
38. Persuasive
Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”
39. Compelling
Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”
40. All things considered
Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”
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50 linking words to use in academic writing. academic writing. linkers. essay writing. thesis. ESL. English. It's very common for students to use long words they don't understand very well in their essays and theses because they have a certain idea of what academic writing should be.
Like. Too. As. As well as. Moreover. 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.
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. Transition words example
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
Linking/Transition Words. Transitions link one main idea to another separated by a semi-colon or full-stop. When the transition word is at the beginning of the sentence, it should be followed by a comma: Among other functions, they can signal cause and effect or sequencing (see examples in the table below). Additional comments or ideas.
Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper and can help your reader understand the logic of your paper. However, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations. Before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely and be sure…
33 Transition Words and Phrases. 'Besides,' 'furthermore,' 'although,' and other words to help you jump from one idea to the next. Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one. Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that ...
Clear transitions are crucial to clear writing: They show the reader how different parts of your essay, paper, or thesis are connected. Transition sentences can be used to structure your text and link together paragraphs or sections. Example of a transition sentence for a new paragraph. In this case, the researchers concluded that the method ...
Sharing is caring! Linking words and phrases are used to show relationships between ideas. They can be used to join two or more sentences or clauses. We can use linking words to give a result, add information, summarize, give illustrations, emphasize a point, sequence information, compare or to contrast idea.
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 ...
To join ideas and sentences, we use a number of connecting words and phrases. For example: Addition To add an idea. Additionally, and, also, apart from this, as well (as), in addition, moreover, further, furthermore. Condition to provide a condition. If, in that case, provided that, unless. For comparison To show how things are similar.
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. Examples: Likewise: Sarah enjoys reading; likewise, her brother is an avid reader.
Words and Phrases for Opposing, Limiting, and Contradicting. When using these words or phrases, you should be connecting paragraphs that show evidence that is contrary to the prior material or pointing out alternatives. This will show your readers that the essay has shifted to a different line of reasoning.
These transitional words (like finally) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time. They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions. at the present time. from time to time. sooner or later. at the same time. up to the present time. to begin with.
The most common places for linking words in essays are: the start of a paragraph; the start of a sentence introducing a new idea or extending an argument the beginning of a concluding statement; Why Use Transition Words in Essays. Essay linking words is an integral part of academic writing.
Step 3: Linking to a new section. Using linking words within a paragraph is easy to get the hang of once you know your intent but linking to a new section can be a little tricker. Linking to a new section of your essay means that you will need to summarise your previous paragraph and either build or depart from that idea to fit with the main ...
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. Transition words example
A good sequence order in your essay is also enhanced when you use words such as lastly, in the end, in the beginning or once upon a time. 2. Showcasing Comparison ... Wrapping Up on Linking words on Essay Writing. You can't overlook the significance of linking words in essay writing. Transition words are important in bringing ideas together ...
An essay with good cohesive devices will flow and be easy to read. In fact, it's practically impossible to write without them. ... This list is not exhaustive, but it's enough for 90% of learners who are using linking words in English. These are good cohesive devices for an essay, a formal letter or a report. They can be used in a wide ...
4. That is to say. Usage: "That is" and "that is to say" can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: "Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.". 5. To that end. Usage: Use "to that end" or "to this end" in a similar way to "in order to" or "so".