Linking Words

Learn how to connect ideas and make your writing more coherent with appropriate linking words and transitions.

Video Lesson

Linking words (also called connective or transition words) are used to link phrases, clauses, or sentences. They help establish clear connections between ideas and make the text more coherent.

Tip: Using appropriate linking words makes your writing more fluent and professional!

Types of Linking Words

Addition

and, also, in addition, furthermore, moreover, as well as

Comparison

similarly, likewise, in the same way, equally

Contrast

but, although, though, however, on the other hand, whereas

Cause

because, since, as, due to, for, thanks to, owing to

Effect/Result

so, therefore, as a result, consequently, thus, hence

Examples/Clarification

for example, for instance, such as, in other words

Conclusion/Summary

in conclusion, to sum up, in summary, in brief, to conclude

Examples:

  • Addition: She is smart, and she is also hardworking.
  • Comparison: Similarly, John enjoys reading as much as Mary does.
  • Contrast: Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
  • Cause: He was late because he missed the bus.
  • Effect/Result: She studied hard; therefore, she passed the exam.
  • Examples/Clarification: For instance, you could try yoga to reduce stress.
  • Conclusion/Summary: In conclusion, we need to take action to protect the environment.

Practice: Linking Words

Instruction: Complete each statement with the correct linking word: thanks to - similarly - since - therefore - furthermore - whereas - as well as - for instance - although - to conclude.

1. A snow storm has been announced. , air traffic will be disrupted.

2. Smartphones are getting cheaper nowadays; , they are getting lighter.

3. here are several problems in our city; , there is a lack of public transport.

4. he was sick, he came to work.

5. Teenagers should be more respectful; , parents should be more understanding.

6. Tom is rich, Jack is poor.

7. , I want to wish you all a great summer vacation.

8. , her hardwork, she became the general manager of a big company.

9. he got up late, he decided to go to school by taxi.

10. My cousin is a polyglot. He can speak, French, English, Spanish , Italian.