Understanding Linking Words for Fluent English
Linking words, also known as conjunctions or connectors, play a crucial role in English by joining sentences, clauses, or phrases. They help in providing coherence and flow in writing and speaking. This lesson will focus on various types of linking words, including those used for showing consequences, contrast, opinion, explanations, conditions, adding ideas, purposes, concessions, and choices. Each category will be accompanied by detailed meanings and examples to illustrate their usage.
By the end of this lesson, learners will understand how to:
- Use linking words to connect ideas smoothly.
- Enhance the clarity and coherence of their sentences.
- Express opinions, reasons, and conditions effectively.
- Add ideas and contrast points of view in discussions.
This lesson is designed to be beginner-friendly, using simple language and practical examples to ensure comprehension. Let's delve into the useful vocabulary and practical applications of linking words.
Useful Vocabulary for Linking Words
Consequence
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"However"
- Indicates a contrast or exception to the preceding statement.
- Example: "I wanted to go for a walk; however, it started raining."
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"As a result"
- Shows the consequence of a preceding action.
- Example: "She studied hard for the exam. As a result, she passed with flying colours."
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"Thus"
- Indicates the outcome or conclusion of the previous statement.
- Example: "He missed the bus. Thus, he was late for the meeting."
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"So"
- Connects a cause with its effect.
- Example: "It was raining, so we stayed indoors."
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"Therefore"
- Introduces a logical conclusion.
- Example: "The company was losing money; therefore, they had to lay off some employees."
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"As a consequence"
- Similar to "as a result," it shows the effect of a previous action.
- Example: "He neglected his health for years; as a consequence, he now has several health issues."
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"Eventually"
- Indicates that something happened after a period of time.
- Example: "After months of searching, she eventually found a job."
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"That's why"
- Explain the reason for something.
- Example: "He didn't study; that's why he failed the test."
Contrast
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"But"
- Shows a contrast or exception.
- Example: "She is kind, but sometimes she can be impatient."
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"Yet"
- Indicates a contrast or surprising fact.
- Example: "He is very young, yet he has achieved so much."
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"Whereas"
- Compares two different aspects.
- Example: "I prefer tea, whereas my brother prefers coffee."
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"While"
- Shows a contrast between two actions happening at the same time.
- Example: "She was watching TV while he was reading a book."
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"On the one hand"
- Introduces one aspect of a contrast.
- Example: "On the one hand, technology has improved our lives."
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"On the other hand"
- Introduces the contrasting aspect.
- Example: "On the other hand, it has also made us more dependent on gadgets."
Opinion
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"In my opinion"
- States a personal viewpoint.
- Example: "In my opinion, this is the best solution."
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"As far as I'm concerned"
- Indicates a personal perspective.
- Example: "As far as I'm concerned, the project is a success."
-
"To my mind"
- Expresses a personal belief.
- Example: "To my mind, he is the right person for the job."
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"It seems to me that"
- Introduces a personal observation.
- Example: "It seems to me that we need more resources."
Explaining
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"Since"
- Indicates a reason.
- Example: "Since it was raining, we stayed indoors."
-
"Because"
- Provides a reason for something.
- Example: "She was late because she missed the bus."
-
"In so far as"
- Shows the extent of a reason or explanation.
- Example: "In so far as I know, he is coming to the party."
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"As"
- Indicates a reason or cause.
- Example: "As it was getting late, we decided to leave."
-
"The reason why"
- Introduces the cause of something.
- Example: "The reason why he left early is still unknown."
Condition
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"As long as"
- Indicates a condition for something to happen.
- Example: "You can stay as long as you keep quiet."
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"If"
- Introduces a condition.
- Example: "If it rains, we will cancel the picnic."
-
"Unless"
- States a condition under which something will not happen.
- Example: "He won't succeed unless he works harder."
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"Whether"
- Indicates a choice between alternatives.
- Example: "I don't know whether to go or stay."
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"Provided that"
- Introduces a condition.
- Example: "You can borrow my car provided that you return it by tomorrow."
Adding Ideas
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"Moreover"
- Adds additional information.
- Example: "She is smart; moreover, she is very hardworking."
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"Also"
- Adds an idea or fact.
- Example: "We need more time. Also, we need more resources."
-
"Besides"
- Adds another point or reason.
- Example: "I don't want to go. Besides, it's too late."
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"In addition"
- Adds further information.
- Example: "He is a great leader. In addition, he is very approachable."
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"What's more"
- Adds emphasis to additional information.
- Example: "She finished the project on time. What's more, she exceeded our expectations."
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"Not only... but also"
- Adds multiple points for emphasis.
- Example: "Not only did he win the race, but he also set a new record."
Purpose
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"To"
- Indicates a purpose.
- Example: "I went to the store to buy some groceries."
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"So that"
- Explains the purpose of an action.
- Example: "I saved money so that I could buy a new car."
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"So as to"
- Shows intention or purpose.
- Example: "She whispered so as not to wake the baby."
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"In order to"
- Indicates a specific purpose.
- Example: "He trained hard in order to win the competition."
Concession
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"Even though"
- Introduces a contrast or concession.
- Example: "Even though it was raining, we went for a walk."
-
"But for"
- Indicates an exception.
- Example: "But for his help, I wouldn't have completed the project."
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"Despite"
- Shows a contrast or opposition.
- Example: "Despite the bad weather, the event was a success."
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"Apart from"
- Indicates an exception.
- Example: "Apart from John, everyone was present."
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"Although"
- Introduces a contrast.
- Example: "Although he is very busy, he always finds time to help."
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"Though"
- Indicates a concession.
- Example: "Though it was late, we decided to go out."
Choice
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"Whatever"
- Indicates an open choice.
- Example: "Whatever you decide, I'll support you."
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"Whoever"
- Shows an unrestricted choice of person.
- Example: "Whoever wins the election will have a tough job."
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"Neither... nor"
- Indicates a choice between two negatives.
- Example: "Neither the manager nor the employees were satisfied with the decision."
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"Either... or"
- Presents a choice between two options.
- Example: "You can either come with us or stay at home."
Summary and Takeaways
Exercises to Practise Alone
To practice linking words alone, try writing sentences or short paragraphs using different connectors. Record yourself reading these sentences to see how naturally you can incorporate them into your speech.
Lesson Summary
This lesson focused on the various types of linking words and their usage in connecting sentences and ideas. We covered linking words for consequences, contrasts, opinions, explanations, conditions, adding ideas, purposes, concessions, and choices. Each section provided examples and meanings to illustrate their usage.
What Learners Gained
Learners gained a comprehensive understanding of linking words and how to use them effectively to create coherent and fluent sentences. This knowledge will enhance both their written and spoken English skills.
Key Phrases Learnt
Some key phrases learners should remember include "however," "as a result," "in my opinion," "since," "if," "moreover," "to," "even though," and "whatever."
Tips for Remembering
Regular practice is crucial for retaining these phrases. Creating flashcards, writing essays, and engaging in conversations with these linking words will help reinforce learning. Reviewing and practicing these phrases daily will ensure they become a natural part of your vocabulary.
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