Academic Focus: At the upper-intermediate (B2) level, writing an essay or participating in a debate requires more than just saying "I think" or "I agree."
You need strong linking words to connect your ideas logically and present a convincing, professional argument. Today, we will look at how university students and professionals structure their thoughts to debate complex topics like eco-tourism and urban development.
warning Professional Tip
A very common essay mistake is confusing Although and However. Remember: Although connects two ideas within the same sentence (e.g., Although it rained, we went out). However usually starts a new sentence and needs a comma (e.g., It rained. However, we went out).
Argumentative Phrases
Transition
Furthermore
Used to add more information to an argument; similar to "in addition".
Example: The new hotel will bring more tourists. Furthermore, it will create vital jobs for the local community.
Transition
Nevertheless
Used to introduce a contrasting idea; a formal way to say "but" or "however".
Example: The city urgently needs modern infrastructure. Nevertheless, we must preserve our historic buildings.
Opinion
From my perspective
A professional way to introduce your personal opinion in an essay or speech.
Example: From my perspective, investing in digital education is the best way to help students succeed.
Debate
I see your point, but...
An excellent phrase for debates to acknowledge the other person's argument before disagreeing.
Example: I see your point about building a new factory for the economy, but we must consider the river pollution.
Evidence
According to
Used to cite facts, statistics, or an expert's opinion to support your argument.
Example: According to recent environmental reports, eco-tourism is successfully protecting the mountains.
Conclusion
To summarize
Used at the beginning of your final paragraph to briefly restate your main arguments.
Example: To summarize, both economic growth and environmental protection are vital for the future.
Knowledge Check
edit_document University Essay
You want to add another supporting fact to your paragraph. Which word should you use?
(Hint: We need a word that means "in addition".)
groups The Business Debate
Your colleague thinks tickets should be more expensive. You politely disagree. How do you start?
(Hint: Find the polite way to acknowledge their argument before disagreeing.)
psychology Essay Structure Check
Choose the correct sentence structure for contrasting ideas:
(Hint: Remember the rule about punctuation with "Although" and "However".)
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Lesson Complete!
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Study Resources
Lesson Summary & Review
Let's review the key concepts covered in the interactive module above to ensure you are ready to construct cohesive argumentative essays and participate in formal debates.
Using Transition Words
- Furthermore: Used to add more information to an argument; similar to "in addition".
- Nevertheless: Used to introduce a contrasting idea; a formal way to say "but" or "however".
- To summarize: Used at the beginning of your final paragraph to briefly restate your main arguments.
Phrases for Debates
- From my perspective: A professional way to introduce your personal opinion.
- I see your point, but: An excellent phrase for debates to acknowledge the other person's argument before disagreeing.
- According to: Used to cite facts, statistics, or an expert's opinion to support your argument.
