Welcome! To sound more professional in essays or emails, you need cohesive devices (linking words).
Often, students write short, choppy sentences like: "The food was good. It was expensive." By using a linking word, we can glue these ideas together: "The food was good; however, it was expensive." Let's learn how to connect your thoughts smoothly.
warning Professional Tip
A common B1 error is double-linking. Never use "But" and "However" together in the same sentence (e.g., "But however, I went..."). Choose only one! Also, words like Therefore and Furthermore usually need a comma after them when starting a sentence.
Essential Linking Words
Contrast
However
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something just said.
Example: The rainy season brings beautiful green landscapes; however, the rural roads can get very muddy.
Result
Therefore
For that reason; consequently. It shows that one action causes another.
Example: The temple requires visitors to cover their shoulders. Therefore, Lisa bought a shirt at the entrance.
Addition
Furthermore
In addition; besides. Used to add more information to support a point.
Example: The new cafe in town has delicious coffee. Furthermore, they offer fast, free Wi-Fi for students.
Example
For instance
Used to introduce a specific example (synonym for "for example").
Example: The region has many beautiful coastal towns. For instance, Kep is famous for its fresh seafood.
Contrast
On the other hand
Used to present factors that are opposed to or contrast with each other.
Example: Tuk-tuks are great for short city trips. On the other hand, buses are much better for traveling between provinces.
Result
As a result
Because of something that has happened; showing a consequence.
Example: The heavy afternoon rain flooded the street. As a result, the night market closed early.
Knowledge Check
rate_review Writing a Hotel Review
"The hotel room was very clean and comfortable. ________, it was quite far from the city center." Which linking word fits best?
(Hint: We need a word that shows a contrast between clean/comfortable and far away.)
groups The Tour Guide's Speech
"This temple is famous for its detailed carvings. ________, it is one of the oldest structures in the region." You want to add more good information. What do you use?
(Hint: Look for the word that means 'in addition'.)
flight_takeoff Explaining a Delay
"The flight from the capital was delayed by three hours. ________, we missed our connecting bus." Which phrase shows the consequence?
(Hint: Look for the phrase that indicates a result of an action.)
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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 complex and fluent sentences in English.
Using Linking Words
Linking words are used to connect ideas, contrast statements, or show results. Using them properly is essential for B1 fluency.
- However: Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with something that has just been said. (Example: "The food was delicious; however, it was very expensive.")
- Therefore: For that reason; consequently. Shows a result. (Example: "It rained heavily; therefore, the match was canceled.")
- Furthermore: In addition; besides. Used to add more supporting information. (Example: "The new car is fast. Furthermore, it is very safe.")
