C1.1 Discourse markers

Sales have increased over the last six months. ___ we will be taking on five new employees.

• so

• therefore

I've been off work for the last three days ___ this nasty cough I've got.

• because of

• owing to

The organization has severe financial problems, and ___ half the staff have been laid off.

• so

• consequently

The company has reported declining sales this year. ___ , they have so far managed to avoid any staff cuts.

• Nevertheless

• But

I stopped at a service station ___ fill up with petrol.

• in order to

• to

I thought it was an amazing book. It was a bit depressing, ___.

• though

• however

We regret to announce that the performance has been cancelled ___ technical problems.

• due to

• because of