NEF_Adv_4A_Discourse markers: adverbs and adverbial phrases

1. Andrew is a great nurse, although ... I think female nurses are usually better with old people.

• talking of

• on the whole

• at least

• that is to say

– Did they buy the house in the suburbs in the end?

– No, it was too big for them. ..... they decided it was better for them to stay in the centre.

• At least

• Obviously

• Besides

• In other words

I really think you should ask her out on a date. ..... you’ve got nothing to lose, and she might just fall in love with you.

• All in all

• On the one hand

• Otherwise

• Incidentally

– I’ve just got a call from Sue and Tom.

– ..... Sue and Tom, did you know they are getting married in the spring?

• Besides

• Incidentally

• At least

• Talking of

– How was your day?

– Fine. I finished work a bit earlier than usual. ……, did you remember to get a birthday present for your mom?

• On the whole

• Basically

• By the way

• In other words

It was not the most comfortable hotel we've ever stayed at, but …….. it wasn't expensive.

• anyway

• at least

• by the way

• as regards

– Do you often meet your wife’s parents?

– ……… they visit us almost every day. I'm not thrilled about it, but it's important to my wife.

• On the whole

• That is to say

• As a matter of fact

• Basically

They’ve employed me as a kind of trouble-shooter – …….. somebody who sorts out problems whenever they occur.

• as far as

• talking of

• in any case

• in other words

……. the payment is concerned you will be transfered the money on the 5th of each month.

• As regards

• As far as

• Regarding

• As I was saying

You’d better hurry up with your homework. …… you won’t be able to watch the new episode tonight.

• Talking of

• Anyway

• Otherwise

• In other words