Welcome to Intermediate Grammar! As students move into more advanced English, they want to tell complex stories and explain situations clearly. Instead of using short, basic sentences, we use conjunctions to link our ideas together smoothly.
Today, we will learn how to express time, contrast, reason, and result like a professional using advanced linking words.
warning Common B1 Mistake
English learners often use "Even though" and "but" in the same sentence. In English, this is a grammatical error! You only need one linking word per relationship. Say "Although it was raining, we went to the temple." (Do NOT say: "Although it was raining, but we went...").
Essential Linking Words
Time
While
During the time that, or at the same time as something else is happening.
Example: While we were exploring the Angkor Wat complex, it started to rain heavily.
Time
As soon as
Immediately at or shortly after the time that something happens.
Example: As soon as the tuk-tuk arrived at the hotel, the porter took our luggage.
Contrast
Although
In spite of the fact that; even though. Connects two opposing ideas.
Example: Although the spicy papaya salad was very hot, the tourists loved it.
Contrast
However
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with something that has just been said.
Example: The resort is beautiful; however, it is located a bit far from the city center.
Reason
Since
For the reason that; because. (Note: It can also refer to time, but here we use it for a reason).
Example: Since the road to the waterfall was flooded, the guide changed our tour plan.
Result
Therefore
For that reason; consequently. Shows the result of an action.
Example: The guide spoke excellent English and knew the history well; therefore, the guests left a big tip.
Knowledge Check
mail Writing a Professional Email
A tour operator is explaining a delay: "_____ the traffic was heavy, we missed our scheduled bus."
(Hint: We need a word that shows the reason for missing the bus.)
campaign The Tour Guide's Warning
"The weather at the temples is extremely hot today; _____, please remember to drink plenty of water."
(Hint: We need a word that introduces the result or consequence of the hot weather.)
star_rate Reviewing a Restaurant
"_____ the restaurant was completely crowded with tourists, the service was surprisingly fast."
(Hint: We need a word that shows contrast between a crowded restaurant and fast service.)
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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 link your ideas like a pro.
Conjunctions of Time
- While: During the time that. (Example: "We ate while waiting for the bus.")
- As soon as: Immediately after. (Example: "I will call you as soon as I arrive.")
Conjunctions of Contrast
- Although: Even though. (Example: "Although it was late, he kept working.")
- However: Used to introduce a contrasting idea, often after a semicolon or at the start of a new sentence. (Example: "I wanted to go; however, I was too busy.")
Conjunctions of Reason and Result
- Since: Because. (Example: "Since you are here, can you help me?")
- Therefore: Consequently. (Example: "It is raining; therefore, we will stay inside.")
