Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B2 - Lesson 2: Using Sophisticated Discourse Markers (Furthermore, Nevertheless)

Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B2 - Lesson 2: Using Sophisticated Discourse Markers

Welcome back! To improve fluency and coherence at the B2 level, we need to move beyond basic connectors like 'and', 'but', and 'so'. Using more sophisticated¹ discourse markers² acts like a signpost for your listener, showing them the logical path of your ideas. This makes your speaking sound more structured, formal, and intelligent.

A Toolbox of Advanced Connectors

Think of these markers as upgrades for the words you already use.

To Add a Similar Idea (instead of 'and' or 'also')

Use: Furthermore, / Moreover, / In addition,

Example: "The new metro system will reduce traffic congestion. Furthermore, it will be better for the environment."

To Show a Strong Contrast (instead of 'but')

Use: Nevertheless, / Nonetheless,

Example: "The weather forecast predicted heavy rain all day. Nevertheless, we decided to go ahead with the trip to the waterfall."

To Explain a Result (instead of 'so')

Use: Consequently, / As a result, / Therefore,

Example: "He forgot to set his alarm clock. Consequently, he was late for his important meeting."

To Give an Example (instead of 'for example')

Use: For instance, / To illustrate,

Example: "Modern technology has changed how we work. To illustrate, many companies now allow employees to work entirely from home."

Scenario: A University Discussion

Listen to this short discussion about the effects of social media. Notice how the student, Chantha, uses discourse markers to structure his argument clearly and formally.

Professor: "Chantha, what is your assessment of social media's impact on young people?"

Chantha: "Well, I believe the impact is complex. On one hand, it allows them to connect with friends and access information easily. For instance, they can join study groups online to prepare for exams. Moreover, it gives them a platform to express their creativity. Nevertheless, there is a significant downside regarding mental health. The constant comparison can lead to anxiety. As a result, I think it's crucial that we teach digital literacy and responsible usage in schools."

Pronunciation & Pausing

The way you say these discourse markers is very important. They almost always come at the beginning of a sentence and are followed by a short, clear pause. This pause signals to the listener that you are transitioning to a new but related idea.

Practice the pattern: Marker + Pause + Idea

• "Furthermore, (pause) the data supports this conclusion."
• "Nevertheless, (pause) we must consider the other side."
• "Consequently, (pause) the policy was changed."

The intonation on the marker itself is often a "fall-rise" tone, which sounds like you are holding the listener's attention for the next point.

Practice Quiz: Choose the Logical Marker

Read the sentences and choose the discourse marker that makes the most sense.

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1. The company spent a huge amount on advertising. __________, its sales did not increase.

A) Moreover
B) Nevertheless
C) Therefore

→ Answer: B. The second part is a surprising contrast to the first. Despite the advertising, sales didn't increase.

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2. The new law requires all drivers to wear a helmet; __________, it aims to reduce serious injuries from accidents.

A) For instance
B) Furthermore
C) Consequently

→ Answer: B. The second part adds another related point/aim of the new law. 'Furthermore' fits well to add this detail.

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3. The flight was delayed by over four hours. __________, many passengers missed their connecting flights.

A) Nonetheless
B) As a result
C) In addition

→ Answer: B. Missing connecting flights is a direct consequence of the long delay.

Your Mission: Upgrade Your Argument

Your mission is to practice replacing basic connectors with more sophisticated ones.

1. Think of a simple argument about a topic you know. For example: "Working from home is good. You save money on transport. **And** you have more flexibility. **But** it can be lonely."
2. "Upgrade" your argument. Rewrite it using markers from this lesson.
3. Example Upgraded Version: "Working from home offers significant advantages. Primarily, one can save a considerable amount of money on transportation. Furthermore, it provides employees with greater flexibility in their schedules. Nevertheless, the potential for loneliness and isolation is a factor that must be considered."
4. Practice saying your upgraded argument aloud. Focus on the pause after each discourse marker to make your speech sound structured and confident.

Vocabulary Glossary

1. Sophisticated: (Adjective) - ទំនើប / ស្មុគស្មាញ - Advanced, complex, and showing a high level of understanding. ↩
2. Discourse Marker: (Noun Phrase) - សញ្ញាកថា - A word or phrase that signals the relationship between ideas in speech or writing. ↩
3. Furthermore: (Adverb) - លើសពីនេះទៀត - In addition; used to add another supporting point. ↩
4. Nevertheless: (Adverb) - ទោះបីជាយ៉ាងណាក៏ដោយ - In spite of that; however; used to show a strong contrast. ↩
5. Consequently: (Adverb) - ជាលទ្ធផល - As a direct result of something. ↩