Effective communication in English, especially in written form, often requires the use of linking words. These words and phrases help connect ideas smoothly and logically, making your writing more coherent and easier to follow. Below, we’ll explore various categories of linking words and provide examples for each.
Expressing Opinions
When you want to share your viewpoint, these phrases can be very helpful:
- In my opinion:
- In my opinion, learning English is essential in today’s globalized world.
- In my opinion, everyone should read at least one book per month.
- As far as I’m concerned:
- As far as I’m concerned, practicing daily is the best way to improve language skills.
- As far as I’m concerned, technology has made our lives easier.
- To my mind:
- To my mind, grammar rules are fundamental to mastering English.
- To my mind, climate change is the most pressing issue of our time.
- It seems to me that…:
- It seems to me that reading extensively helps in understanding language nuances.
- It seems to me that exercise is crucial for maintaining good health.
Making Concessions
Sometimes, you need to acknowledge a contrasting point before presenting your main argument:
- Even though:
- Even though English is a difficult language, many people manage to master it.
- Even though it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.
- But for:
- But for the dedication of her teacher, she might not have excelled in English.
- But for his quick thinking, the situation could have been much worse.
- Despite:
- Despite the challenges, he continued to learn English.
- Despite the cold weather, they went hiking.
- Apart from:
- Apart from grammar, vocabulary is also crucial in learning English.
- Apart from the main course, the restaurant offers a variety of desserts.
- Although:
- Although she was tired, she continued to study English.
- Although it was late, he stayed up to finish his project.
- Though:
- Though it was late, he kept on practicing English.
- Though she is very busy, she always finds time to help others.
Stating Purpose
To explain why something is done, use these linking words:
- To:
- She practices every day to improve her English.
- He joined the club to make new friends.
- So that:
- He studied hard so that he could pass the English exam.
- She saved money so that she could travel during the summer.
- So as to:
- They joined the class so as to enhance their English skills.
- He left early so as to avoid traffic.
- In order to:
- In order to become fluent, you need to practice speaking regularly.
- In order to succeed, you must be willing to work hard.
Showing Consequence
To demonstrate the result of an action, these phrases are useful:
- As a result:
- He studied regularly. As a result, he passed the exam with flying colors.
- She invested wisely. As a result, her savings grew significantly.
- Thus:
- She didn’t practice. Thus, she didn’t improve.
- The weather was terrible. Thus, the event was canceled.
- So:
- He didn’t understand the lesson, so he asked the teacher for help.
- She was hungry, so she made a sandwich.
- Therefore:
- She practiced daily; therefore, her English improved.
- He was late; therefore, he missed the bus.
- As a consequence:
- He missed the deadline. As a consequence, he failed the course.
- They neglected the warning. As a consequence, they faced severe penalties.
- Eventually:
- She kept practicing and eventually became fluent.
- After much effort, he eventually completed the project.
- That’s why:
- They provided extra classes. That’s why the students performed well.
- He forgot to set an alarm. That’s why he overslept.
Highlighting Contrast
When you need to highlight differences or contradictions, these words can be effective:
- However:
- The book is difficult; however, it is worth reading.
- She is very talented; however, she remains humble.
- But:
- She wants to learn English, but she doesn’t have time.
- He is good at math, but he struggles with history.
- Yet:
- He knows the rules, yet he often makes mistakes.
- The weather was cold, yet they decided to go swimming.
- Whereas:
- She enjoys grammar, whereas he prefers vocabulary.
- He likes action movies, whereas she prefers romantic comedies.
- While:
- While some find it easy, others struggle with English.
- While he was sleeping, she finished the work.
- On the one hand:
- On the one hand, English is widespread. On the other hand, it can be challenging to learn.
- On the one hand, technology connects us. On the other hand, it can isolate us.
Adding Ideas
To add more information or ideas, these linking words are very useful:
- Moreover:
- The course is interesting. Moreover, it is free.
- The hotel is nice. Moreover, it is located near the beach.
- Also:
- He speaks Spanish. Also, he is learning English.
- She is a talented musician. Also, she excels in academics.
- Besides:
- She enjoys reading. Besides, it helps improve her vocabulary.
- He is very friendly. Besides, he is always willing to help.
- In addition:
- The book is informative. In addition, it is easy to read.
- The meal was delicious. In addition, the service was excellent.
- What’s more:
- The teacher is excellent. What’s more, the class is engaging.
- The software is user-friendly. What’s more, it is very affordable.
- Not only … but also:
- He is not only smart but also hardworking.
- She is not only a great artist but also a skilled writer.
Explaining Reasons
To explain why something happens, use these phrases:
- As:
- As she was late, she missed the lecture.
- As it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
- Since:
- Since it’s raining, we’ll stay inside.
- Since he is busy, he couldn’t attend the meeting.
- In so far as:
- In so far as grammar is concerned, practice is key.
- In so far as safety is concerned, precautions must be taken.
- Because:
- She didn’t pass because she didn’t study.
- They canceled the event because of bad weather.
- The reason why …:
- The reason why he failed is that he didn’t study.
- The reason why she succeeded is her determination and hard work.
Describing Conditions
For conditions that must be met for something to happen, these linking words are used:
- As long as:
- You can borrow the book as long as you return it.
- We can go to the park as long as it doesn’t rain.
- Unless:
- He won’t succeed unless he works hard.
- We won’t leave unless everyone is ready.
- If:
- If you study regularly, you will improve.
- If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.
- Provided that:
- You can go out provided that you finish your homework.
- The project will be approved provided that all requirements are met.
- Whether:
- He will join the class whether he likes it or not.
- Whether you agree or not, the decision has been made.
Expressing Choices
When presenting options or alternatives, these words are useful:
- Or:
- Do you want tea or coffee?
- We can go to the beach or the park.
- Whatever:
- Whatever the outcome, we will continue.
- Whatever you decide, I will support you.
- Whoever:
- Whoever wants to join can sign up here.
- Whoever finds the lost item will receive a reward.
- Neither … nor:
- He speaks neither French nor German.
- She likes neither apples nor oranges.
- Either … or:
- You can either call me or send an email.
- He will either join us or stay at home.
Using linking words effectively can transform your writing, making it more structured and engaging. Practice incorporating these phrases into your essays, reports, and other written forms of communication to see a significant improvement in your English writing skills.