🎯 B1–B2
⏱️ 5 min
💬 The chain of ideas: When I first wrote essays in French, my teacher said: “Les idées sont là, mais elles ne se parlent pas.” — The ideas are there, but they don’t talk to each other. Linking words are how ideas talk. Same principle in English.
Linking Words — Join Your Ideas Like a Pro
➕ Addition
Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Besides, What is more, Also, As well as
“Exercise improves mood. Furthermore, it reduces stress.”
⚡ Contrast
However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, Despite this, Although, Even though, Yet
“It was expensive. However, it was worth it.”
↳ Result / Cause
Therefore, As a result, Consequently, Thus, This means that, Because of this
“She studied hard. As a result, she passed.”
📝 Examples
For example, For instance, Such as, In particular, To illustrate
“Many factors affect health, for instance, diet and sleep.”
Position Matters
Most linking adverbs go at the start of a sentence followed by a comma.
Conjunctions (although, because, even though) go mid-sentence.
🎯 Quick Practice — Choose the Right Linker
- He was tired. ___, he finished the report. (contrast)
- The project failed. ___, the team lost funding. (result)
- She speaks three languages. ___, she has studied abroad. (addition)
- There are many benefits, ___ improved concentration. (example)
Reveal Answers ▼
- Nevertheless / However
- As a result / Consequently
- Furthermore / In addition
- for example / such as
✅ Takeaway: Group linkers by function: addition / contrast / result / example. Choose the right type for the relationship between your ideas. Vary them — don’t use “however” every time.
Independent project; not affiliated with, endorsed by, or accredited by Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Confers no qualification.
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