Linking Words

Linking words are words or phrases used to connect ideas, sentences, or paragraphs smoothly in writing  or speech. They help the readers to follow the logic of thoughts and understand how ideas relate to each other.

Various types of linking verbs depend on the use or place in sentences.  These are:

1. Addition: and, also, in addition, moreover, furthermore, besides, as well as, what’s more, not only… but also

Example: My mother is an artist. Moreover, she cooks very well.

2. Contrast: but, although, though, even though, on the other hand, yet, however, nevertheless, in contrast, while, whereas.

Example: although he has enough money, he is unhappy.

3. Cause and effect: because, so, therefore, thus, as a result, since, as, hence, due to, owing to

Example: his examination was knocking at the door. So, he could not attend the wedding program.

4. Comparison: similarly, likewise, in the same way, just as, equally

Example: She is confined. Similarly, her brother is outgoing.

5. Time/Sequence/order: first, next, after that, then, finally, later, meanwhile, eventually, afterwards, at the same time

Example: first, mix the ingredients. Then, bake for 20 minutes.

6. Emphasis: indeed, in fact, especially, particularly, above all, certainly, clearly, undoubtedly

Example: he is indeed an honest man.

7. Illustration: likely, for instance, for example, in particular, especially, such as, to illustrate

Example: Many fruits are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and strawberries.

8. Condition: if, unless provided that, in case, as long as, whether or not.

Example: You can go out if you finish your homework.

9. Purpose: so that, in order to, in order that, for the purpose of

Example: he studies hard so that he can pass the examination.

10. Summary/Conclusion: in conclusion, to sum up, overall, finally, to conclude, in short, all in all

Example: In conclusion, we must act now to save the planet.