1. Ways of Linking Ideas
- Use conjunctions (e.g. but, because) to join clauses in a sentence.
- Use adverbial expressions (e.g. consequently, however) to connect ideas in separate sentences. Place them at the beginning of the sentence.
- Use prepositions (e.g. in spite of, because of) before a noun phrase or an -ing form to link ideas.
2. Linking Expressions
- Adding Information: and, as well as, also, anyway, besides, furthermore, in addition, likewise, moreover, similarly.
- Sequencing: first, next, after that, then; firstly, secondly, finally.
- Cause, Reason, Result: because, so, therefore, consequently, thus, as a result, because of, due to, on account of, owing to.
- Contrasting: but, although, though, alternatively, however, in contrast, nevertheless, on the contrary, on the other hand, yet, in spite of, despite.
- Giving Examples: that is to say, in other words, that is (i.e.), for example.
3. Written and Spoken English
- Some linking expressions are more common in formal written English, while others are more common in spoken English.
- Written: thus, therefore, finally, furthermore, hence, moreover, nevertheless, in addition, firstly, secondly, finally.
- Spoken: so, then, anyway.
These linking expressions help create coherence in your writing or speech by connecting ideas and showing relationships between them.